Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, independent repair shops specializing in luxury vehicles, Jaguar enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS
Vehicle Attributes:
Renowned for its refined ride, comfortable interior, distinctive styling, and the potent AJ-V8 engine. The X350 generation marked a significant shift with its aluminum monocoque construction for improved rigidity and lighter weight.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides access to dealer-level diagnostic and repair procedures, enabling cost savings and empowering owners/technicians to maintain the vehicle to factory specifications, thus preserving its luxury and performance attributes.
Years Covered:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, often exceeding 2000 pages when including all diagrams and procedures)
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (4.0L V8, 4.2L V8 naturally aspirated and supercharged variants), Transmission (ZF 6-speed automatic), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System
Chassis:
Suspension (including Adaptive Dynamics and self-leveling), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Accessories, Audio System, Navigation System, Climate Control, Body Control Modules (BCM), Diagnostic Ports (OBD-II), Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM)
Body:
Body Structure, Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Bumpers
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate Control (HVAC), Seats (heating, cooling, memory), Sunroof, Power Accessories, Keyless Entry, Cruise Control
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine mechanical repair, transmission servicing and overhaul, fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, ignition system troubleshooting, cooling system repair, exhaust system repair, suspension component replacement, brake system servicing, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, procedures for using diagnostic tools, component testing methods
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components, sub-assemblies, and interior/exterior parts
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics. Assumes technician familiarity with general automotive practices but emphasizes Jaguar-specific nuances.
Engine Code And Displacement:
AJ-V8 Gen III: 4.0L (early models, e.g., 2003/2004) and 4.2L (later models), naturally aspirated and supercharged variants.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 294 hp for naturally aspirated 4.2L, up to 390 hp for the supercharged 'R' model.
Torque Range:
Approximately 411 Nm (303 lb-ft) for naturally aspirated 4.2L, up to 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) for the supercharged 'R' model.
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
Jaguar specified extended-life coolant (typically a Type 4 OAT coolant - Orange/Pink color). Manual will specify exact Jaguar part number or equivalent.
Oil Type And Viscosity:
Typically SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Jaguar specifications (e.g., WSS-M2C153-E or equivalent). Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.
Spark Plugs:
Specific platinum or iridium tipped spark plugs. Manual will list exact part numbers and replacement intervals.
Transmission Model:
ZF 6HP26 (6-speed automatic transmission)
Optional Transmissions:
None for this generation XJ8 (V8 models primarily used the ZF 6HP26)
Transmission Features:
Adaptive shift control, Sport mode, often with Jaguar's Sequential Shift manual override system.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ZF LifeguardFluid 6 or equivalent. Manual will detail exact specification and capacity, emphasizing the importance of using the correct fluid for longevity and performance.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 3030 mm (119.3 inches) for standard wheelbase, 3157 mm (124.3 inches) for long wheelbase (XJL).
Overall Length:
Approximately 5097 mm (200.7 inches) for standard wheelbase, 5224 mm (205.7 inches) for long wheelbase.
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and specification, but typically in the range of 1750-1950 kg (3850-4300 lbs) due to aluminum construction.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified in the manual, varies by model.
Crash Test Ratings:
While specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for every model year might vary or not be directly available, Jaguar vehicles of this era were engineered with robust safety structures and features.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.
Passive Safety Features:
Multiple airbags (front, side, curtain), crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, seat belt pretensioners.
Infotainment System:
Jaguar Premium Audio System, optional Alpine or Bowers & Wilkins sound systems. Touchscreen interface for navigation, climate control, and audio. Bluetooth connectivity (often via an accessory module or for hands-free calling).
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Adaptive Cruise Control, parking sensors (front and rear), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps.
Diagnostic Connectivity:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for scan tool access to engine and chassis control modules. Manual will detail specific Jaguar diagnostic protocols and connector locations.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone or multi-zone automatic climate control, often with cabin air filtration and heated/ventilated seats.
Oil And Filter Change:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Manual will specify for each engine variant and oil type used.
Transmission Fluid Service:
While ZF designed the transmission for 'filled for life', Jaguar often recommended fluid and filter changes at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles). The manual will provide the definitive recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions. Manual will specify.
Coolant Replacement:
Extended-life coolant typically lasts 5 years or 100,000 miles, but manual should be consulted for specific Jaguar recommendations.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, potentially DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) for ABS systems. Manual will specify exact type and replacement interval.
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific hydraulic fluid for Jaguar's variable-assist power steering system. Manual will specify.
Common Wear Items:
Air suspension components (air springs, compressor), cooling system hoses and radiators, electrical connectors, door lock actuators, timing chain tensioners (especially on earlier AJ-V8 engines, though less common on the Gen III in this range if maintained). The manual will provide guidance on diagnosis and replacement.
Body And Interior:
Minor trim rattles, headliner sagging, clear coat peeling on exterior trim pieces. Manual will cover interior panel removal and repair.
Jaguar Legacy:
Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for building luxurious, powerful, and stylish grand touring cars and sedans.
X300 To X350 Transition:
The X350 generation represented a significant technological leap from its predecessor (X308), primarily due to its innovative all-aluminum monocoque construction, which significantly improved torsional rigidity and reduced weight, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency.
Manufacturing Location:
Castle Bromwich, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Automotive Awards:
While specific awards for the 2003-2009 XJ8 might be niche or region-specific, Jaguar models of this era were consistently praised for their styling, ride comfort, and performance, securing positions in luxury vehicle comparisons and often receiving critical acclaim in automotive press.
Reliability Rankings:
Reliability perceptions for Jaguar vehicles from this period varied. However, the X350's aluminum construction and ZF transmission were generally well-regarded. The manual is crucial for ensuring proper maintenance to mitigate potential reliability concerns.
