🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XK Range

Engine:

4.0 Litre V8

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Jaguar XK series, particularly the 4.0 V8 models, represents a luxury grand tourer positioned against contemporaries from brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. It targets affluent buyers seeking performance, style, and comfort.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with models such as the BMW 8 Series (E31), Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), and Porsche 911 (993/996). The XK emphasized British luxury and a more classic GT experience.

Key Features:

Hand-built feel, powerful V8 engine, refined interior, elegant styling, sophisticated ride and handling, often rear-wheel drive.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Vehicle Maintenance Sheet (Service Schedule)

Page Count:

Likely a multi-page document, specific count not provided but implied to be comprehensive for service.

Manual Type:

Maintenance Schedule / Service Guide (dealer equivalent)

Language:

English

Format:

Physical Sheet/Document (implied from description 'sheet')

📖 Manual Coverage

Covered Systems:

Engine oil and filter, air filter, fuel filter, cabin air filter, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid, drive belts, suspension components, steering system, brake system inspection, exhaust system inspection, tire rotation and pressure, battery health check.

Included Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, inspection points, fluid replacement intervals, filter replacement intervals, component checks as per Jaguar dealer service protocols.

Technical Depth:

Focused on routine maintenance and scheduled service items. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic information, but specifies *what* needs to be done and *when*.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Not applicable (physical document implied).

Print Quality:

Likely to be dealership-grade, clear and legible text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Not applicable (sheet format).

Paper Type:

Likely standard paper or cardstock, suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

3996 cc (4.0 Litre)

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 86 mm (approximate, varies slightly by specific engine code)

Compression Ratio:

10.75:1 (typical for AJ-V8 Gen II)

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total)

Engine Codes:

Examples: AJ26, AJ27 (specific to XK models within the 4.0 V8 range).

Horsepower:

Approximately 290-320 hp (depending on XK variant, e.g., XK8, XKR with supercharger).

Torque:

Approximately 290-300 lb-ft (depending on XK variant).

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (95-98 RON recommended)

ECU:

Jaguar Electronic Engine Control (JEEC) system (specific model dependent).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

ZF 5HP24 (common for many Jaguar models of this era).

Optional Transmission:

None for the naturally aspirated 4.0 V8 XK models in most markets. The XKR variant offered the same automatic.

Shift Modes:

Often includes 'Sport' and 'Winter' modes.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Jaguar XT-8 Q specification or ZF TE-ML 11B/11A. DEXRON III compatible, though specific Jaguar approved fluid is preferred.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4955 mm (XK8 Coupe/Convertible)

Width:

Approx. 1777 mm

Height:

Approx. 1324 mm (Coupe) / 1300 mm (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2794 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1750-1850 kg (depending on body style and equipment).

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 2100-2200 kg.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 0.30-0.35 m³ (variable by coupe/convertible, space often compromised by rear wheels and spare).

Wheel Size:

Typically 17-inch standard, with 18-inch optional on XK8 and standard on XKR.

Tire Sizes:

e.g., 245/50R17 front, 255/45R17 rear (standard). Optional 245/40R18 front, 255/35R18 rear.

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120.65 mm

Offset:

ET30-ET35 (approximate, varies by wheel size and width).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Official ratings for this era are scarce from common agencies like NHTSA/Euro NCAP. Jaguar's internal safety standards were high for the period.

Traction Control:

Standard on most models (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation).

Stability Control:

Not typically standard on early 4.0 V8 models, but available on later iterations or as an option.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags optional or standard on later models.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning seatbelts with force limiters.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, designed for energy absorption in impact zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic audio systems with CD player, cassette player. Optional premium audio by Alpine or Harman Kardon. Navigation system available on some models, often with a touchscreen interface.

Display:

Typically a monochrome or basic color LCD for radio/climate control, with a separate navigation screen if equipped.

Cruise Control:

Standard on XK8/XKR models.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking sensors were an optional feature on later models.

Bluetooth:

Not standard on early 4.0 V8 models; later cars or aftermarket solutions may offer it.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with A/C and pollen filter.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (typical for this era).

Air Filter Interval:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Interval:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically platinum or iridium).

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 5 years, then every 2-3 years (using appropriate Jaguar coolant).

Brake Fluid Interval:

Every 2 years (DOT 4 fluid).

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Recommended to inspect at 60,000 miles; replacement typically at 80,000-100,000 miles if it hasn't been done, or as per manual for 'long-life' service.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, meeting specific Jaguar engine oil specifications (e.g., JLR.03.5003 or ACEA A3/B3).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.7 litres (7.1 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Jaguar-approved G48 antifreeze (ethylene glycol based, typically blue or green).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4, typically low viscosity (LV) for modern systems, but standard DOT 4 for this period.

Common Issues:

Timing chain tensioners (early AJ-V8 models, especially the 'plastic' tensioner type), Nikasil cylinder liner issues (pre-2000 models, though Jaguar extended warranties), oil leaks (e.g., cam cover gaskets, crankshaft seals), cooling system components (water pump, hoses, thermostat), plastic coolant pipes, catalytic converter failure, intermittent electrical gremlins, gearbox issues (e.g., valve body, solenoid pack failure on ZF units), suspension wear (bushings, ball joints).

Oil Filter Part Number:

e.g., Jaguar C2S13477 or equivalent OEM part from Mann-Filter, Mahle.

Air Filter Part Number:

e.g., Jaguar C2S13996 or equivalent.

Cabin Filter Part Number:

e.g., Jaguar C2S13981 or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar has a long-standing reputation for building luxurious, powerful, and stylish sports cars and grand tourers, dating back to models like the XK120, E-Type, and XJS.

Model Evolution:

The XK series (XK8/XKR) replaced the XJS and was designed to bring Jaguar back to the forefront of the luxury sports car market. The 4.0 V8 represented a significant step forward in engine technology for Jaguar, utilizing the new AJ-V8 engine family. It saw updates and facelifts during its production run.

Production Years:

The XK8/XKR range was produced from 1996 to 2005. The 4.0 Litre V8 engine was primarily used in models from 1996 to 2002, before being superseded by the 4.2 Litre V8.

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, United Kingdom

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While specific awards for the 4.0 V8 models may not be readily available, the XK range itself was widely praised for its elegant and timeless styling, drawing inspiration from Jaguar's classic designs.

Reliability Ratings:

Reliability ratings for Jaguar models of this era were mixed. While the V8 engine itself was a strong unit, potential owners should be aware of the known issues (especially concerning tensioners and the cooling system) which require diligent maintenance.

Manufacturing Certifications:

Jaguar facilities adhere to ISO and automotive industry standards for quality and manufacturing.