🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XJ Series

Model Code:

X308

Year:

1998

Generation Name:

X308

Generation Years:

1997-2003

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Jaguar XJ Series (X308) represented the pinnacle of British luxury and performance in its segment during the late 1990s. It competed against other premium sedans from German and American manufacturers.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, and Lexus LS.

Vehicle Features:

Renowned for its elegant styling, refined ride, luxurious interior, and powerful V8 engines. The X308 aimed to blend traditional British craftsmanship with modern automotive technology.

Value:

Provides essential, factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners to maintain their classic Jaguar effectively and affordably.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Fuel System, Engine Cooling System, Engine Lubrication System, Engine Electrical System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (Rear Wheel Drive), Suspension System (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front and Rear), ABS System, Body Electrical System, HVAC System, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Chassis Components, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

Extensive (Specific number not provided, but described as highly detailed with hundreds of photos and illustrations)

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, and seals.

Engine Fuel System:

Fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, and evaporative emissions control system.

Engine Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and cooling fan operation.

Engine Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil passages, and lubrication strategies.

Engine Electrical System:

Starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring harnesses, and sensor diagnostics.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition control module, and timing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and exhaust pipes.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (likely ZF 4HP24 or similar for this era), including internal component repair, fluid changes, and electronic control module diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, differential, and half-shafts.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, including control arms, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, and wheel alignment procedures.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column adjustments.

Brake System:

Front and rear disc brake systems, including calipers, rotors, brake pads, brake lines, and master cylinder.

ABS System:

Anti-lock Braking System components, including ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, and hydraulic unit.

Body Electrical System:

Lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horns, and instrument cluster.

HVAC System:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including blower motor, A/C compressor, refrigerant system, and climate control module.

Interior Trim:

Removal and installation of interior panels, seats, dashboard components, and headliner.

Exterior Trim:

Bumpers, grilles, door handles, mirrors, and body moldings.

Chassis Components:

Frame, subframes, and mounting points.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all electrical systems, allowing for detailed troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic routines for identifying common and complex faults.

Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting guides for various symptoms and fault conditions.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, and belt inspection/replacement.

Repair:

Detailed procedures for repairing or replacing any component of the vehicle, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.

Disassembly Assembly:

Complete step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling the entire vehicle or specific major components.

Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic approaches for pinpointing issues using both manual methods and potential diagnostic tools (though tool specifics may vary).

Technical Specifications:

Provision of all necessary technical data for performing repairs and maintenance accurately.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic DIY maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical repairs, suitable for both amateur and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Compatible with all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.

Searchability:

Implied by PDF format, likely searchable if text-based.

Printability:

All pages are printable.

Illustration Quality:

High-quality, with hundreds of photos and detailed illustrations.

Binding Type:

Digital download (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Completeness:

100% complete and intact.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, naturally aspirated

Engine Displacement:

Typically 4.0 Liters (AJ-V8)

Engine Code:

Examples: AJ26 (early 4.0L), AJ27 (later 4.0L, potentially Supercharged on R models)

Horsepower:

Approximately 240-290 hp (varies by specific engine tune and trim, e.g., standard vs. Sport)

Torque:

Approximately 284-315 lb-ft (varies by specific engine tune and trim)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended)

Block Material:

Aluminum alloy

Head Material:

Aluminum alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP24)

Optional Transmission:

No manual transmission offered for the X308 generation in most markets.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift programs.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Likely DEXRON III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and fill capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 118.0 inches (3000 mm)

Length:

Approximately 197.1 inches (5006 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.9 inches (1800 mm)

Height:

Approximately 54.0 inches (1372 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,800 - 4,000 lbs (1724 - 1814 kg), varies by trim and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle data plate or manual for exact GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Specific crash test ratings for the 1998 model year may not be as readily available or standardized as modern vehicles. However, Jaguars of this era were built with robust safety structures.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, side impact airbags (on some models), three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, reinforced safety cell.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic radio/cassette/CD player, often with a premium sound system option. Limited by late 1990s standards, likely no integrated navigation or advanced connectivity.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, Traction Control (on some models), Cruise Control.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by the era; typically only basic audio input. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).

Timing Belt Chain:

The AJ-V8 engine utilizes a timing chain, which is designed for the life of the engine but requires inspection for wear and tensioner issues over time.

Major Service Intervals:

Refer to manual for specific mileage/time-based major service intervals, typically involving spark plugs, coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid services.

Engine Oil Type:

Typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic engine oil (refer to manual for exact specification and API/ACEA ratings).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a long-life type (refer to manual for correct color and specification).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).

Common Issues:

Potential issues include timing chain tensioner wear (especially in early AJ-V8 engines), Nikasil cylinder liner issues (on very early models, later engines use Alusil), water pump leaks, suspension bushing wear, and electrical gremlins common in older luxury vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for producing luxurious, high-performance grand tourers and sports saloons, with a history dating back to the 1930s.

Predecessor:

XJ Series XJ40

Successor:

XJ Series X350

Production Period:

1997-2003

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England, United Kingdom

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

While specific awards for the 1998 model year are not detailed, the XJ Series as a whole has been recognized for its luxury, styling, and driving dynamics throughout its production run.