🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Jaguar

Model:

XK8

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

X100

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Positioned as the definitive online resource for 1998 Jaguar XK8 owners and independent repair facilities, offering licensed OE data for accurate and efficient servicing.

Competitive Analysis:

Offers significant advantages over older printed manuals in terms of accessibility, searchability, and cost-effectiveness. Provides a centralized source of information compared to fragmented online forums or generic repair guides.

Key Features:

Officially licensed OE data, year-round access, PC/laptop/smartphone/tablet compatibility, user-friendly interface, instant access, cost savings compared to dealer or printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior

Page Count:

Extensive (exact number not specified, but implies comprehensive factory data)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software (Web-based)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (AJ-V8), Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (ZF 5HP24), Final Drive, Driveshafts, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (including ABS), Power Steering, Electrical Distribution, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control (HVAC), Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Body Control Module (BCM), Security System

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Component Diagnosis, Troubleshooting Fault Codes, Repair Procedures, Reassembly Instructions, Component Replacement, Electrical Schematics, Wiring Diagrams, Lubrication Procedures, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Diagnostic Procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-derived data, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic trees and electrical system analysis.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Web-based access (no downloadable file specification)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4.0L V8 (AJ-V8)

Engine Code:

Various AJ26 variants depending on market and spec

Horsepower:

Approx. 290 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 290 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 86 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

ZF 5HP24

Transmission Features:

Jaguar J-gate shifter with Comfort/Sport modes

Transmission Fluid Type:

Jaguar JLM 20143 or ZF LifeguardFluid 5

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

102.4 inches (2601 mm)

Length:

193.5 inches (4915 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

51.7 inches (1313 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 - 3,900 lbs (1678 - 1769 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120.65 mm (5x4.75 inches)

Standard Tire Size:

P225/55R16 (front), P245/50R16 (rear) for base models

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Specific NHTSA ratings for 1998 models are not readily available; however, the XK8 was designed with modern safety features for its era.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - standard on some models/markets)

Passive Safety Features:

Dual Front Airbags, Side Impact Protection Beams, Crumple Zones, Seatbelt Pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory-fitted Alpine or Jaguar branded audio system with AM/FM stereo, cassette player, and CD changer capability. Optional navigation system on later models or as an aftermarket addition.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Parking Sensors (optional/later models)

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on the audio system and basic vehicle controls. No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity as standard.

Climate Control Type:

Automatic Climate Control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with dual-zone temperature control.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles (64,000 - 96,000 km), or per specific ZF service recommendations for the 5HP24.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (meeting Jaguar M2C100-B or equivalent)

Coolant Specification:

Jaguar Premium Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, OAT - Organic Acid Technology)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Known Issues:

Timing chain tensioner wear (especially on early AJ-V8 engines), Nikasil cylinder liner degradation (in early US-market models, though many were retrofitted or replaced), water pump failure, upper timing cover oil leaks, suspension bushing wear, gearbox oil cooler leaks (potentially leading to transmission fluid contamination).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Jaguar has a long-standing heritage of producing stylish, luxurious, and performance-oriented grand tourers and sports cars, known for their refined engineering and classic British design.

Model Evolution:

The XK8 (X100) was introduced in 1996 as the successor to the XJS. It marked a significant design departure, embracing modern curves while retaining classic Jaguar GT proportions. The 1998 model year represents one of the early production years for this iconic platform.

Production Years:

1996-2006 (for X100 platform)

Manufacturing Location:

Coventry, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1998 model year are not highlighted, the XK8 platform as a whole was generally well-received for its styling, performance, and luxury appeal, often being compared favorably to its European competitors.