Brand Heritage:
Jaguar is renowned for its blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive British styling.
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS
Vehicle Highlights:
The XJ8 (X308) is characterized by its refined ride, powerful V8 engine, classic Jaguar styling, and opulent interior.
Manual Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and complex repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership services.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Workshop Service Repair
Model Variant Coverage:
All Models, Engines, Trim Levels, and Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Detailed, A-Z procedures)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF Compatible)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, Traction Control), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Body Electrical, Power Accessories, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Mirrors, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs, Lubrication
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault Code Diagnosis, Symptom-based Troubleshooting Guides, Electrical Schematics, Component Testing
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repairs
Installation And Adjustment:
Component Installation, Calibration, Adjustments (e.g., wheel alignment, parking brake)
Engine Management Diagnostics:
Includes procedures for diagnosing engine control module (ECM) fault codes and related sensor/actuator testing.
Suspension Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, and springs.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Electrical Schematics Detail:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for troubleshooting complex faults.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Accessibility:
Viewable on PC, Mac, Tablets, Smartphones
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (Free Download)
Print Capability:
Printable (Individual pages, chapters, or entire manual)
Image Quality:
High-quality images and diagrams included
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Family:
Jaguar AJ-V8
Engine Displacement 1997 2002:
3.2 L (3200 cc) / 4.0 L (3996 cc)
Engine Displacement 2003:
3.5 L (3555 cc) / 4.2 L (4196 cc)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Horsepower 3.2L:
Approx. 237 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 3.2L:
Approx. 256 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Horsepower 4.0L:
Approx. 290 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque 4.0L:
Approx. 290 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or Higher Recommended)
Transmission Type:
ZF 5HP24 5-Speed Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
N/A (5-speed automatic was standard for all XJ8 models)
Transmission Control:
Adaptive Electronic Control, Sport Mode
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Jaguar JLM20259 / MERCON V (or equivalent with correct Jaguar approval)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.9 inches (3045 mm)
Length:
Approx. 201.2 inches (5110 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.5 inches (1842 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.2 inches (1377 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3800 - 4000 lbs (1725 - 1815 kg) depending on configuration
NHTSA Rating Era:
Tests from this era are not directly comparable to modern standards. Focus on specific crashworthiness.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags, Side Airbags (optional on some models)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Premium sound systems, often with CD changer integration and optional navigation.
Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with early generation map displays.
Cruise Control:
Standard adaptive cruise control systems (optional on some models).
Phone Integration:
Early integrated cellular phone systems (optional) were available, often requiring a specific SIM card.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or as per manual specifics
Coolant Service:
Inspect regularly, flush and replace every 50,000 miles or 5 years
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for precise recommendation)
Coolant Specification:
Jaguar specification coolant (typically a long-life silicate-free OAT coolant)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Timing Chain Tensioners:
Early AJ-V8 engines (pre-2002) are known for brittle plastic timing chain tensioners that can fail, leading to severe engine damage. Replacement with updated components is critical.
Nikasil Cylinder Liners:
Early 4.0L V8 engines used Nikasil coatings, which could degrade with high-sulfur fuels. Later models (from around 2000 onwards) and engines with updated liners are less susceptible.
Water Pump Leaks:
Water pumps can develop leaks over time, particularly around the seal. Regular inspection is advised.
Headliner Sag:
The fabric on the headliner can detach and sag due to age and heat.
Jaguar Legacy:
Founded by Sir William Lyons, Jaguar has a storied history of producing iconic sports cars and luxurious saloons.
Xj Series Lineage:
The XJ8 (X308) is the third generation of the XJ platform, succeeding the XJ6 (XJ40) and XJ (X300).
X308 Introduction:
Introduced in 1997, the X308 marked a significant update with the introduction of the V8 engine as standard, replacing the inline-six.
Production Period:
1997-2003
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England, United Kingdom