Vehicle Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
Jaguar represented British luxury, performance, and refined craftsmanship during this era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), BMW 7 Series (E32), Audi V8 quattro, Lexus LS 400.
Design Philosophy:
The XJ40 aimed for a modern interpretation of classic Jaguar styling, with a focus on improved reliability and ergonomics over its predecessors.
Chassis:
Monocoque construction with advanced (for the time) hydro-formed front end and a refined independent rear suspension.
Powertrain Options:
Engineered for the straight-six XK engines, representing Jaguar's heritage.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of 3.2L and 3.6L engines, including assembly, disassembly, timing, and component specifications.
Fuel System:
Carburetor and Fuel System: Includes details on Stromberg, Zenith-Stromberg, and potentially early fuel injection systems, fuel pumps, lines, and filters.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan operation, and coolant specifications.
Clutch:
Operation, adjustment, and replacement procedures for clutch assembly.
Transmission:
Gearbox: Coverage for both manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 4HP22 automatic), including service, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Propeller Shaft and Rear Axle: Includes U-joints, driveshafts, differential service, bearings, and axle ratios.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, and alignment specifications.
Suspension:
Front Suspension: Wishbones, coil springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, and bushings. Rear Suspension: Independent rear suspension (IRS) details, trailing arms, springs, dampers, and bushings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), front and rear disc brakes, calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, and bleeding procedures.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, and replacement guidance.
Body Exhaust:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, trim, and exhaust system components.
Climate Control:
Heating and Windscreen: HVAC system operation, heater matrix, A/C (if applicable), demisting systems, and wipers.
Electrical:
Comprehensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition system, dashboard instruments, and minor electrical components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault finding, and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, etc.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, experienced DIY enthusiasts, and Jaguar owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge.
Engine Code 3 2L:
AJ6 (early variant, often 3.2L)
Engine Displacement 3 2L:
3.2 Liters (3239 cc)
Engine Configuration 3 2L:
Inline 6-cylinder
Engine Code 3 6L:
AJ6 (early variant, often 3.6L)
Engine Displacement 3 6L:
3.6 Liters (3590 cc)
Engine Configuration 3 6L:
Inline 6-cylinder
Horsepower 3 2L Est:
Approx. 185-195 hp
Torque 3 2L Est:
Approx. 200-210 lb-ft
Horsepower 3 6L Est:
Approx. 200-220 hp
Torque 3 6L Est:
Approx. 220-240 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery Early Models:
Stromberg CD series carburetors (e.g., CD230 or CD200)
Fuel Delivery Later Models:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - e.g., Lucas/Jaguar EFI systems, potentially with Bosch components.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition System (e.g., Lucas electronic ignition)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag G260 derivative or Jaguar's own offering, though less common in North America)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22LH)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Standard Drive, Sport, and Economy modes often featured on the ZF automatic.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Typically Dexron II or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification and part number).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113 inches (2870 mm)
Overall Length:
Approx. 195-197 inches (4953-5004 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 70-71 inches (1778-1803 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 53-54 inches (1346-1372 mm)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 3800-4000 lbs (1725-1815 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Refer to specific vehicle VIN plate.
Standard Wheel Size:
15-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels
Bolt Pattern:
5x120.65 mm (5x4.75 inches)
Common Tire Sizes:
205/70VR15, 215/70VR15, 225/60VR15, 225/55VR16
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data readily available for this specific model year range from major US agencies, but generally built to high European safety standards of the era.
Antilock Brakes:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available as an option or standard on higher trims.
Traction Control:
Traction control (ASR) was introduced later in the XJ40 lifecycle and may be present on some 1993-1994 models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag introduced during the XJ40's production run, typically from 1990/1991 onwards. Passenger airbag was rare or not offered.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts with pre-tensioners on front belts became more common.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Major Service Interval:
Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush typically at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 20W/50 or 15W/40 depending on climate and specific engine requirements. Consult manual for exact viscosity.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.0-6.5 liters (with filter) for 3.2L/3.6L engines.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Jaguar specific coolant or equivalent may be recommended.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on system specification. Check manual for ABS system requirements.
Electrical Gremlins:
Infamous for complex wiring harnesses and Lucas electrical components, leading to intermittent failures. Harness repairs are a common task.
Head Gaskets:
While improved from earlier V12 engines, head gasket issues can still occur, particularly with overheating. The AJ6 engine is generally robust.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings (especially rear trailing arm bushings) can lead to imprecise handling and tire wear.
Cooling System Leaks:
Radiator leaks, hose deterioration, and water pump leaks can be common due to age.
Dashboard Electronics:
The 'JAG' warning lights and other digital displays can fail or flicker.
Founding Principles:
Founded by Sir William Lyons, with a focus on 'grace, pace, and space'.
Key Models Preceding:
E-Type, XKE, XJ6 Series I, II, III, XJS.
Xj40 Development:
Developed as a radical departure from the Series III XJ, aiming for modernization and improved manufacturing processes.
Xj40 Launch Year:
Introduced in 1986.
Xj40 Facelift Updates:
Received updates throughout its life, including improved dashboard ergonomics, powertrain refinements, and safety features.
Manufacturing Plant:
Coventry, England
Production Period Xj40:
1986-1994
