Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit
Luxury Appointments:
Supple leather upholstery, polished wood veneers, generous interior space, advanced features for its era
Driving Experience:
Refined ride, quiet cabin, smooth powertrain
Convenience:
Instant online access, searchable database, accessible on multiple devices
Cost Effectiveness:
Saves money compared to professional repair services
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Additional Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Digital Format)
Type:
Online Service and Repair Manual Software
Digital Format:
Web-based Access (PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet)
Powertrain:
Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, ECUs
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC, Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-based Diagnosis, Fault Code Interpretation
Repair Overhaul:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair
Special Procedures:
Alignment Procedures, Diagnostic Tool Usage (where applicable for the era)
Depth:
Comprehensive Factory-Derived Information (OE Materials)
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on system checks and potential diagnostic equipment relevant to the period
Engine Type:
AJ6 Inline-6
Displacement:
4.0 Liters (3980 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
91.0 mm x 102.0 mm
Horsepower:
221 bhp @ 5000 rpm
Torque:
277 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
ECM Type:
Lucas 14 CUX (or similar ECUs depending on exact market)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition with Distributor
Type:
ZF 4HP22 EH 4-Speed Automatic
Type:
N/A (Vanden Plas exclusively automatic for this year)
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control with Comfort/Sport Modes
Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid
Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (16.9 US Pints) for torque converter and cooler
Crash Test Data:
Limited specific official crash test data available for this model year from modern standardized agencies.
Braking System:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver Airbag (Standard)
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with front pretensioners
Chassis Design:
Integral body-frame construction with designed crumple zones.
Audio System:
Premium Cassette Player with AM/FM Radio, often with amplifier and multiple speakers.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with A/C.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature.
Original Connectivity:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were standard).
Headlight System:
Self-leveling headlights (hydraulic or electric, depending on specific configuration).
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum).
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-30 or 20W-50 depending on climate. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Power Steering Fluid:
Jaguar recommended power steering fluid or Dexron II/III AT fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact type and replacement interval).
Cooling System:
Potential for radiator leaks, hose degradation, and thermostat housing issues. Overheating is a common concern if not maintained.
Electrical System:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, fuel pump relay failures, headlight leveling system issues are documented.
Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, bushings, and dampers. Hydraulic self-leveling rear suspension can require maintenance.
Body:
Rust can be a concern, particularly in wheel arches, door bottoms, and sills if not properly protected.
Brand Philosophy:
Renowned for luxury, performance, and elegant design.
Model Lineage:
Successor to the Jaguar XJ6 (Series III), part of the XJ40 generation which represented a significant modernization.
Vanden Plas Positioning:
Top-tier luxury trim level, offering enhanced interior appointments and features over standard XJ6 models.
Production Years:
XJ40 generation: 1986-1994 (Vanden Plas trim included within this range)
Manufacturing Plant:
Coventry, England
Automotive Press:
While specific awards for the 1991 Vanden Plas are not widely cited, the XJ40 generation was generally praised for its improved reliability and modern design compared to its predecessors.
Reliability Perceptions:
Early XJ40 models had some reliability concerns, but by 1991, significant improvements had been made. Proper maintenance is key to enjoying this vehicle.
