🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XJ

Generation:

X308

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

X308

👋 Introduction

Target User:

Jaguar XJ (X308) owners, independent mechanics, automotive enthusiasts

Advantage:

Vehicle-specific factory data, not generic information, mirroring dealership technician resources

Content Detail:

Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications

Benefit:

Empowers owners to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair their vehicle with confidence, saving time and money

Digital Format:

Convenient PDF format with searchability and print-on-demand functionality

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Service and Repair

Model Variants Covered:

All models and trims of the 1997 Jaguar XJ (X308)

Repair Scope:

A-Z (Comprehensive)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely several hundred pages (typical for factory-level service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (AJ-V8, AJ16), Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake & Exhaust Systems, Ignition System, Starting & Charging System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission (if applicable to specific trims/engines)

Chassis:

Brake Control System, Brakes, Parking Brake, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering Column, Power Steering, Axles, Drive Shaft, Differential, Transfer Propeller Shaft

Electrical:

Wiring Schematics, Electrical System Diagnostics, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Ignition Starting Charging, Meter, Audio/Visual, Horn, Instrument Panel, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control

Body And Interior:

Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Wiper & Washer System, Door Locks, Windshield/Glass/Mirrors, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Doors, Exterior & Interior Trim, Body Panels

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostics:

System troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, diagnostic flowcharts

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems and components

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for removing, installing, and adjusting all major and minor components

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical values

Depth:

Factory-level, comprehensive for diagnostics, repair, and overhaul

Level Of Detail:

Includes diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics

📊 Manual Specifications

Supported Os:

Windows Vista (32/64-bit), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and MAC

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online)

Printability:

All pages are printable, allowing for enlarged copies of diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format implies no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format implies no physical paper type)

Features:

Easy-to-use PDF, no flipping through multiple books, print only necessary pages

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Jaguar AJ-V8, AJ16 (depending on specific model variant within 1997 XJ)

Displacement Options:

Likely 3.2L V8 (AJ27), 4.0L V8 (AJ26/AJ27), and possibly 4.0L Inline-6 (AJ16) for early production or specific markets within the X308 range.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 240-290 hp (V8 variants), 237 hp (AJ16)

Torque Range:

Approximately 284-300 lb-ft (V8 variants), 280 lb-ft (AJ16)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (specific Jaguar-approved type detailed in manual)

Oil Viscosity:

Likely SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil (refer to manual for exact specification)

System Type:

Catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-speed automatic (ZF 5HP24 for V8, likely for most 1997 models)

Transmission Type Opt:

Manual transmission was available on some earlier XJ models but less common on X308, check specific market/trim.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific ATF fluid (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent, consult manual for exact Jaguar specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 118.5 inches (3010 mm)

Length:

Approx. 197.7 inches (5022 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.9 inches (1801 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.3 inches (1380 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,900 - 4,200 lbs (1769 - 1905 kg), depending on engine and equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Information available in manual

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.9 cubic feet (450 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Specific NHTSA ratings for the 1997 model year are historical and may vary. Manual will cover safety systems.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard

Traction Control:

Optional traction control system (TCS) may be available depending on trim.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, likely side airbags available on some trims.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners

Supplemental Restraint System:

Detailed SRS system operation and diagnostics covered.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium audio systems, cassette and CD players, likely with optional navigation on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system with detailed operational and diagnostic information.

Multiplexing:

Features multiplexed wiring systems for various functions, covered in detail by wiring schematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on oil type and driving habits)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as per manual's severe service schedule.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine type, likely around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for V8 (coil-on-plug systems).

Engine Oil Spec:

API Service SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic (verify with manual)

Coolant Spec:

Jaguar-recommended ethylene glycol coolant (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify with manual)

Common Problems:

Timing chain tensioners (especially early AJ-V8 models), Nikasil cylinder liner degradation (on early 4.0L V8s if not replaced), water pump leaks, ignition coil failure, suspension component wear (bushings), ABS sensor issues, dashboard creaks and rattles.

Maintenance Focus:

The manual will provide detailed procedures for addressing these common issues, including preventative measures and repair strategies.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for luxury, performance, and elegant styling.

X308 Introduction:

The X308 was introduced for the 1998 model year, replacing the X300. The 1997 model year mentioned in the product title likely refers to the final production year of the X300 or an early introduction to the X308 line depending on region and specific market rollout.

X308 Key Changes:

The X308 marked the introduction of the AJ-V8 engine, significantly updating the powertrain from the previous AJ6 and AJ16 inline-six engines. It also featured updated styling and interior refinements.

Production Years:

X308 generation: 1997 (late) - 2003

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

The X308 generation received acclaim for its ride quality, handling balance, and luxurious interior. Specific awards for the 1997 model year are less documented as it transitioned to the X308.

Reliability Ratings:

Reliability for this era of Jaguar can be a mixed bag; the manual is crucial for proactive maintenance and addressing potential issues.