Positioning:
Premium luxury sedan, positioned against competitors like BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Competitors 1999:
BMW 7 Series (E38), Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140/W220), Lexus LS Series (XF20)
Styling:
Classic Jaguar design language, elegant and timeless proportions
Interior Appointments:
Vanden Plas trim signifies enhanced luxury, including premium leather, wood veneer, and increased rear-seat amenities
Powertrain Emphasis:
Smooth and refined V8 engine, comfortable ride quality
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, internal components, specifications, lubrication, cooling
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection system, fuel pump, fuel tank, evaporative emissions
Engine Management:
ECU operation, sensor diagnostics, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, removal/installation, fluid specifications, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, rear axle, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shocks, springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage
Brakes:
Brake system components, hydraulic circuits, ABS, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis structure
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, problem resolution for all major systems
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Component Replacement:
Detailed guides for replacing common wear items and major components
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for testing electrical components, sensors, and actuators
Depth Level:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full rebuilds
Length In:
Approximately 202.0 inches
Width In:
Approximately 70.9 inches
Height In:
Approximately 55.1 inches
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approximately 3900-4000 lbs
Wheelbase:
Approximately 118.5 inches
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not extensively rated under contemporary standards; typical for its era
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Standard premium audio system; optional premium brands (e.g., Alpine, Harman Kardon) depending on specific configuration.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system (typically CRT-based screen).
Cruise Control:
Standard Adaptive Cruise Control (if equipped, otherwise standard electronic cruise control)
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated cellular phone system (rarely used now due to analog technology).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise interval)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles or as per severe service schedule (refer to manual)
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ, ILSAC GF-2, SAE 40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil recommended (verify viscosity for climate)
Coolant Type:
Jaguar specification ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Prestone 5/50 or equivalent)
Primary Concern 1:
Timing chain tensioners: Early V8 engines (pre-2002) were prone to brittle plastic tensioner failure, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage. This manual would detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Primary Concern 2:
Cooling system leaks: Plastic components like expansion tanks and hose connectors can become brittle and crack. Regular inspection is advised.
Primary Concern 3:
Minor Oil Leaks: Valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals are common areas for minor leaks.
Primary Concern 4:
Transmission shifting: The ZF 5HP24 transmission is robust but can develop shifting issues if fluid is neglected or the valve body is contaminated.
Brand Legacy:
Jaguar Cars, a historic British marque renowned for luxury, performance, and elegant design
X300 To X308:
The X308 is an evolution of the X300 platform, notably featuring the new AJ27 V8 engine as the primary powertrain, replacing the inline-sixes of its predecessor.
Production Years:
X308 series produced from 1997 to 2003. The 1999 model year is part of this generation.
