1999 Jaguar XJ

VANDEN PLAS Sedan

4.0L 3996CC 244Cu. In. V8 GAS DOHC Naturally Aspir

ZF FIVE SPEED AUTOMATIC

SAJKD6045XC872994

Clear

Gasoline

To many, the 1998-2003 Jaguar XJ (X308) Series are the last of the true Jaguars, more powerful and yet more fuel efficient than their six cylinder predecessors, the 1995-97 XJ6 (X300), and sleeker and sportier than the slightly bulbous and more "Lincolnesque" (X350) series XJ that replaced them in 2004. And the Vanden Plas model is the top of the line incorporating many luxury and cosmetic enhancements not available on the standard XJ8. The interior upholstering utilizes twice the amount of leather and the hides themselves are the higher quality Connolly Autotlux grade. Hand inlaid walnut veneers and traditional picnic trays for the rear seat occupants also adornthe interior. The car itself sits on a longer wheelbase which increases rear cabin leg room andthe extended length smooths out road imperfections for a more comfortable ride. They can also be a great value for money also, but the diligent thing to do is to choose the right one, an example that has low mileage and has had the recommended upgrades completed. The X308 was the first Jaguar sedan to get the all new AJV8 4.0 liter engine that made it's debut in the 1997 XK8 . From the start the engine set new standards for it's advanced design, power to displacement ratio and fuel efficiency. But soon after some shortcomings came to light regarding the reliability of the plastic timing chain tensioners, water pumps and thermostats. Once sorted out these engines have been proven to be reliable well in excess of 250,000 miles. Another problem area was the nikasil cylinder bore plating which could be degraded though the use of high sulfur low grade fuel. Fortunately, this was never a serious problem here in the U.S. due to our higher standard of fuel quality, especially in California, resulting in most earlier Nikasil engines potentially outlasting the later steel liner versions. The most important upgrade to look for are the upper/secondary timing chain tensioners, the original plastic bodied versions can develop cracks that can allow the slippers to become adrift and cause the chain to jump or even break resulting in catastrophic engine failure. If you are lucky, the chain will only jump one tooth making for a rough idle and rattle from the front of the engine. Should this happen the engine must be shut down and the car towed to a dealer or reputable Jaguar shop and the tensioners and chains replaced. Jump two or more teeth and you are now the not so proud owner of a "mechanic's special". The chain jump usually occurs upon a cold start brought on by the sudden jolt of torque from the starter motor. This malady was finally solved with the introduction of the metal bodied tensioners in during the 2003 model year. Any XJ8 still running on plastic tensioners is a veritable ticking time bomb... Unfortunately, as these cars age owners are reluctant to invest the $2500-$3000 a dealer would want to do the chain & tensioner upgrade and are content with driving while keeping their fingers crossed... One last word on this subject, you have been warned! This 1999 Vanden Plas has had both the timing chain & tensioner update done besides the other recommended upgrades such as later design water pump and thermostat and has covered only 56,000 miles since new, almost a third of the mileage that would be typical for a car of this year. Other recent maintenance actions have been; new fuel pump & filter, new sway bar bushings and links. Passed smog with flying colors, smog certificate and title (in my name) in hand...