The Jaguar XJS spans 1981–1997 with 46 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 3.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 1990, 1989, 1994 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 1981, 1997, 1982. It delivers up to 18 mpg combined and NHTSA-rated safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Jaguar XJS is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 1981 to 1997 across multiple generations.
Decode or check a Jaguar XJS by VIN
Enter a 17-digit VIN to decode this Jaguar XJS — trim, engine, plant and full specs — and instantly pull its open recalls, safety ratings and original window sticker.
How to read a Jaguar XJS VIN — every digit explained
Every Jaguar XJS carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. 4T1 = Toyota, built in the USA.
- VDS (4–8) — model line, body style, engine & restraint system.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built. H = 2017.
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this XJS.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
Model-year code (10th digit)
The 10th character is the model year. It cycles through letters and numbers, skipping I, O, Q, U, Z and 0 to avoid confusion:
Where to find your XJS VIN
- Dashboard — driver's side, visible through the windshield from outside.
- Driver's door jamb — on the manufacturer sticker when you open the door.
- Paperwork — vehicle registration, title and insurance card.
- Engine bay & frame — stamped on the firewall or chassis on many models.
How many recalls does the Jaguar XJS have?
The Jaguar XJS has 46 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1997. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
1996 Jaguar XJS recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes, click on "document search" and then "bus applications"). The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may not seat correctly on the fuel line.
Risk. This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Fix. Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on october 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
1995 Jaguar XJS recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes, click on "document search" and then "bus applications"). The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may not seat correctly on the fuel line.
Risk. This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Fix. Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on october 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
1994 Jaguar XJS recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes, click on "document search" and then "bus applications"). The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may not seat correctly on the fuel line.
Risk. This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Fix. Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on october 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
1993 Jaguar XJS recalls 1
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes, click on "document search" and then "bus applications"). The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may not seat correctly on the fuel line.
Risk. This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Fix. Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on october 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
1992 Jaguar XJS recalls 2
Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood
What's wrong. The engine harness may come in contact with the air conditioning expansion valve protection plate, causing chafing of the harness.
Risk. The chafing of the harness can result in short circuitsof the electrical wiring and possible vehicle stalling.
Fix. Reposition the air conditioning expansion valve protection plate to preclude possibility of contact with the electrical harness.
Fuel System, Gasoline
What's wrong. Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes, click on "document search" and then "bus applications"). The connector on the fuel filter was not manufactured to honeywell's specification. As a result, the o-ring may not seat correctly on the fuel line.
Risk. This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Fix. Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. The recall began on october 18, 2006. Owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
1991 Jaguar XJS recalls 1
Electrical System:ignition
What's wrong. The high tension lead from the ignition coil can move from the production location closer to the #4a fuel injector hose. This could lead to the outer and inner injector hoses cracking or splitting from ozone deterioration.
Risk. Splitting of the injector hoses would cause expulsion offuel in the engine compartment and result in a fire when exposed to a source ofignition.
Fix. Replace the high tension leads with shorter high tension leads. Replace both the fuel injector and the #4a fuel injector hose as necessary.
1990 Jaguar XJS recalls 3
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
Electrical System:ignition
What's wrong. The high tension lead from the ignition coil can move from the production location closer to the #4a fuel injector hose. This could lead to the outer and inner injector hoses cracking or splitting from ozone deterioration.
Risk. Splitting of the injector hoses would cause expulsion offuel in the engine compartment and result in a fire when exposed to a source ofignition.
Fix. Replace the high tension leads with shorter high tension leads. Replace both the fuel injector and the #4a fuel injector hose as necessary.
1989 Jaguar XJS recalls 4
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
Seat Belts
What's wrong. The normal lockup function of the automatic (passive) belt reel can cause the belt motor winch assembly to lockup such that the passive belt system will not deploy/function or gets stuck at various points along the track causing the kinking or breaking of its cable or detachment of the tongue.
Risk. If this occurs the occupants of the vehicle cannot usethe safety belts, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a sudden stopor accident.
Fix. Jaguar will repair the passive belt system if this problem occurs or has occurred. Jaguar will notify owners of the existence of a lifetime warranty on components of the automatic (passive) belt system.
Electrical System:ignition
What's wrong. The high tension lead from the ignition coil can move from the production location closer to the #4a fuel injector hose. This could lead to the outer and inner injector hoses cracking or splitting from ozone deterioration.
Risk. Splitting of the injector hoses would cause expulsion offuel in the engine compartment and result in a fire when exposed to a source ofignition.
Fix. Replace the high tension leads with shorter high tension leads. Replace both the fuel injector and the #4a fuel injector hose as necessary.
1988 Jaguar XJS recalls 4
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
Seat Belts
What's wrong. The normal lockup function of the automatic (passive) belt reel can cause the belt motor winch assembly to lockup such that the passive belt system will not deploy/function or gets stuck at various points along the track causing the kinking or breaking of its cable or detachment of the tongue.
Risk. If this occurs the occupants of the vehicle cannot usethe safety belts, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a sudden stopor accident.
Fix. Jaguar will repair the passive belt system if this problem occurs or has occurred. Jaguar will notify owners of the existence of a lifetime warranty on components of the automatic (passive) belt system.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur.
Risk. This creates fuel odors and after prolonged cyclingcould cause weakening of the fuel tank structure, which could result in fueltank leaks. If a source of ignition is present, a fire could result.
Fix. Install revised purge system components.
1987 Jaguar XJS recalls 6
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Seals of lower fuel tank gauge could fail causing gas to leak into lower fuel tank cavity and possibly into passenger compartment.
Risk. Ignition of gas vapors which might be present couldcause a fire or explosion.
Fix. Replace lower fuel tank assembly to upgrade fuel system to current specifications.
Electrical System:wiring: Rear Compartment/trunk
What's wrong. Electrical wiring harness may have been incorrectly installed and could cause a short circuit.
Risk. Short circuit could result in a electrical fire.
Fix. Reroute harness; if chafed or damaged condition will be corrected.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur.
Risk. This creates fuel odors and after prolonged cyclingcould cause weakening of the fuel tank structure, which could result in fueltank leaks. If a source of ignition is present, a fire could result.
Fix. Install revised purge system components.
Seat Belts
What's wrong. The normal lockup function of the automatic (passive) belt reel can cause the belt motor winch assembly to lockup such that the passive belt system will not deploy/function or gets stuck at various points along the track causing the kinking or breaking of its cable or detachment of the tongue.
Risk. If this occurs the occupants of the vehicle cannot usethe safety belts, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a sudden stopor accident.
Fix. Jaguar will repair the passive belt system if this problem occurs or has occurred. Jaguar will notify owners of the existence of a lifetime warranty on components of the automatic (passive) belt system.
1986 Jaguar XJS recalls 4
Electrical System:wiring: Rear Compartment/trunk
What's wrong. Electrical wiring harness may have been incorrectly installed and could cause a short circuit.
Risk. Short circuit could result in a electrical fire.
Fix. Reroute harness; if chafed or damaged condition will be corrected.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
Engine And Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur.
Risk. This creates fuel odors and after prolonged cyclingcould cause weakening of the fuel tank structure, which could result in fueltank leaks. If a source of ignition is present, a fire could result.
Fix. Install revised purge system components.
1985 Jaguar XJS recalls 3
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Possible fuel leakage from the engine fuel injection system, particularly in the area of the hose/clip fittings. Consequence of defect: the presence of an ignition source, with fuel leakage, could result in an engine compartment fire or the destruction of ignition distributor cap.
Fix. A new fuel delivery system designed to eliminate fuel hose clips will be installed.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
1984 Jaguar XJS recalls 3
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Possible fuel leakage from the engine fuel injection system, particularly in the area of the hose/clip fittings. Consequence of defect: the presence of an ignition source, with fuel leakage, could result in an engine compartment fire or the destruction of ignition distributor cap.
Fix. A new fuel delivery system designed to eliminate fuel hose clips will be installed.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
1983 Jaguar XJS recalls 4
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Possible fuel leakage from the engine fuel injection system, particularly in the area of the hose/clip fittings. Consequence of defect: the presence of an ignition source, with fuel leakage, could result in an engine compartment fire or the destruction of ignition distributor cap.
Fix. A new fuel delivery system designed to eliminate fuel hose clips will be installed.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Fuel leakage may develop at the two main fuel rail connections. Deterioration at these two connections has been traced to a combination of misalignment of the two rail halves and the effect of temperature changes.
Fix. Dealer will replace the current two piece fuel rail with a new part kit of single piece design.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
1982 Jaguar XJS recalls 6
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Possible fuel leakage from the engine fuel injection system, particularly in the area of the hose/clip fittings. Consequence of defect: the presence of an ignition source, with fuel leakage, could result in an engine compartment fire or the destruction of ignition distributor cap.
Fix. A new fuel delivery system designed to eliminate fuel hose clips will be installed.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Fuel leakage may develop at the two main fuel rail connections. Deterioration at these two connections has been traced to a combination of misalignment of the two rail halves and the effect of temperature changes.
Fix. Dealer will replace the current two piece fuel rail with a new part kit of single piece design.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
What's wrong. Certain vehicles may be fitted with an unauthorized fuel pump electrical inertia switch. This switch has a tin coating added to the contacts that create the potential for a high electrical resistance. This could cause overheating and possible distortion of the plastic mounting around the fixed contact. This could result in inability to start the vehicle since there is a flow of current to the fuel pump.
Fix. Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the inertia switch at no cost to owner.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Certain vehicles could be subject to a fuel leakage in the engine compartment due to the possibility of deterioration in the integrity of the high pressure fuel hose connections.
Fix. All affected hoses and attachment clips will be replaced at no charge to owner.
Vehicle Speed Control
What's wrong. Electronically controlled valves in the cruise control actuator may not function properly due to dirt entering the valves.
Risk. Cruise control would not disengage under normal operatingconditions which could result in loss of control and an accident.
Fix. Replace cruise control actuator and install additional vacuum dump valve.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
1981 Jaguar XJS recalls 2
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System:fuel Rail
What's wrong. Certain vehicles could be subject to a fuel leakage in the engine compartment due to the possibility of deterioration in the integrity of the high pressure fuel hose connections.
Fix. All affected hoses and attachment clips will be replaced at no charge to owner.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
What's wrong. Excessive fuel vapor pressure can occur that, after prolonged cycling, could weaken the fuel tank structure.
Risk. This can cause fuel tank leaks which, in the presence ofan ignition source, could result in a vehicle fire.
Fix. Install a revised fuel purge system which eliminates excessive vapor pressure build-up.
Best and worst years for the Jaguar XJS
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 17 tracked years, the worst years are 1990, 1989, 1994 and the best (fewest complaints) are 1981, 1997, 1982.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 XJS | 0 | — | Best |
| 1982 XJS | 1 | Fuel System | Best |
| 1983 XJS | 1 | Fuel System | Average |
| 1984 XJS | 5 | Fuel System | Average |
| 1985 XJS | 4 | Fuel System | Average |
| 1986 XJS | 2 | Fuel System | Average |
| 1987 XJS | 1 | Fuel System | Average |
| 1988 XJS | 7 | Seat Belts | Average |
| 1989 XJS | 15 | Fuel System | Avoid |
| 1990 XJS | 18 | Service Brakes | Avoid |
| 1991 XJS | 8 | Fuel System | Average |
| 1992 XJS | 4 | Electrical System | Average |
| 1993 XJS | 1 | Electrical System | Average |
| 1994 XJS | 10 | Engine And Engine Cooling | Avoid |
| 1995 XJS | 7 | Seat Belts | Average |
| 1996 XJS | 9 | Structure | Average |
| 1997 XJS | 0 | — | Best |
What are the most common Jaguar XJS problems?
The most-reported Jaguar XJS problems are Air (1 reports), Other (3 reports) and Seats (1 reports) — out of 93 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Fuel System 26 Read
I was parked in a small strip center. I had just left the barber shop and i took note of all the kids in the parking lot and a suv parked nearby. I turned on the engine of my 1988 xjsc jaguar, engine sound seemed normal. I then turned my head to view the rear and proceeded to move in reverse, but as i lifted my foot off the brake, the car suddenly accelerated in a violent manner on its own. The car moved approximately 20 feet in seconds and i found myself going backwards for no logical reason. I applied the brakes as hard as i could, but as i did the car lunged sideways into a block wall protected by a concrete steel post. As i hit the post, the rear of my car bounced into the rear of a parked suv. Police suspect that i tramped on the gas pedal, but foot was already on the brake from the beginning to the end of the crash. I have the best driver rating with state farm, i do not use any drugs legal or illegal and was extra cautious that day because of all the kids in the area. So far, the real cause of this accident has not been found although i suspect the cruise control to be the problem. *tr
Fuel tank leak resulted in a vehicle fire.
Fuel line failure caused vehicle to caught fire on three different occasions. *yc
Jaguar has been awear of frequent engine fires in the v12 model cars for several years and has run out of replacement ignition harnesss world wide b/c of the problem. They have a faulty designed light distributor caps which have lead to the fires all the deals and expert mechanics are awear of the problem and they wil not admit or correct it! I would like information on other reports to start a class action suit aganst them!!
Fuel leak from fuel injector rail, causing fire. *ak
This 1985 jaguar had an engine fire with the previous owner, parts were replaced and the car had a second engine fire in my garage, i have replaced the parts again. The fire starts in the fuel rack area.i have some of the old parts that were burnt. Thank you
Engine fire, burnt several items on engine, replaced with used parts, engine fire a second time, replaced again. *ak
Engine stalled.
Fuel tank developed leak. Web search revealed this is not an uncommon problem. Cause is either tank puncture by contact with rivet over time or a rear window leak allowing water intrusion. Water saturates foam on which tank rests and corrodes metal from outside. Passenger cabin is contaminated with fumes unless windows are closed and fan is on. Trunc contains both liquid and fumes in the area of the battery and electrical fuel pump.
There was a leak in the gas tank. Then tank split wide open due exsessive pressure in the tank that was suppose to had been fixed in the 1990 under a fuel tank assembly recall. Took to dealer, and they denied the problem.*ak
Gasoline 23 Read
Fuel tank leak resulted in a vehicle fire.
Fuel line failure caused vehicle to caught fire on three different occasions. *yc
Jaguar has been awear of frequent engine fires in the v12 model cars for several years and has run out of replacement ignition harnesss world wide b/c of the problem. They have a faulty designed light distributor caps which have lead to the fires all the deals and expert mechanics are awear of the problem and they wil not admit or correct it! I would like information on other reports to start a class action suit aganst them!!
Fuel leak from fuel injector rail, causing fire. *ak
This 1985 jaguar had an engine fire with the previous owner, parts were replaced and the car had a second engine fire in my garage, i have replaced the parts again. The fire starts in the fuel rack area.i have some of the old parts that were burnt. Thank you
Engine fire, burnt several items on engine, replaced with used parts, engine fire a second time, replaced again. *ak
Engine stalled.
Fuel tank developed leak. Web search revealed this is not an uncommon problem. Cause is either tank puncture by contact with rivet over time or a rear window leak allowing water intrusion. Water saturates foam on which tank rests and corrodes metal from outside. Passenger cabin is contaminated with fumes unless windows are closed and fan is on. Trunc contains both liquid and fumes in the area of the battery and electrical fuel pump.
There was a leak in the gas tank. Then tank split wide open due exsessive pressure in the tank that was suppose to had been fixed in the 1990 under a fuel tank assembly recall. Took to dealer, and they denied the problem.*ak
Gas tank failure caused leakage, resulting in odor and fumes entering vehicle, possibly recall related 90v-123. Consumer request rembersment. *yh
Electrical System 14 Read
Electrical wiring from the fuel pump that runs to the fuel tank caused an electrical shortage which resulted in a fire. Dealer/mfr. Notified and refused to accept the responsibility. Stated that design of the electrical wiring running from the fuel tank was the major cause of fire. *ak consumer states that the wire was not encased in a loom and was allowed to rub until it was bare against the body, the fire was limited to the wiring and fuel pump relay, consumer also states that the fuses did not blow. *slc
Marelli fire!!!!!!!!@ a gas station!!!! *tr
Marelli fire!!!!!!! @ a gas station!!! *tr
Vehicle caught fire within the ignition system. Vehicle was totaled. *ak
The jaguar xjs v12 from mid 1989-on, equipped with marelli ignition has a design defect in the distributor rotor that results in loss of ignition on the right bank of cylinders. The motor continues to run on the 6 left bank cylinders, and unburned fuel passes through the right hand cylinders, and ignites in the hot catalytic converter, resulting in a fire that leads to the total loss of the car. This phenomenon has been discussed in depth on the forum "[email protected]" and details can be extracted from the searchable xj-s archives at www.jag-lovers.org engineers in the discussion forum have analyzed failed parts and determined that the marelli-type distributor rotor burns through and arcs to ground the current for the right side bank of cylinders. This is a dangerous and costly situation, and should be the subject of a recall. Www.copart.com, the insurance salvage site, typically lists several fire damaged xjss per month. Insurance companies and jaguar dealers can substantiate the number of fires that have occured, but they may never have investigated the cause of these fires, since the vehicles are usually declared a total loss and sold for salvage. This problem is related to the marelli-type rotor. Original or aftermarket does not seem to make a difference. This problem is separate and distinct from engine fires in earlier xjs cars that were caused by an arcing high tension iginition wire, or from older xjs cars that have engine fires due to deterioration of fuel injection hoses. I hope that nhtsa will devote some resources to investigating this.
This form sucks! I can't manage to get anything to fit! I guess i'll just have to forget about it.
Engine fire, burnt several items on engine, replaced with used parts, engine fire a second time, replaced again. *ak
Advised electrical wiring harness not available, local jaguar representaive (david bamber) notified and he indicated he would locate. After two months i called jaguar customer service on june 26, 2002 1-800-452-4827, option 9, ext. 8264 (robert bosack and subject was assigned case #6182217. July 18, 2002 talked with ms romero , supervisor in customer service, 1800-452-4827, option 9 ext 8089, no new results. July 18, 2002 wrote president michael o'driscoll, jaguar, 555 macarthur blvd., mahwah, nj 07430 asking for help. July 22, 2002 received response from ms nancy synol, executive liaison, but no new advice. From july 29, 2002 through oct, 30, 2002 talked with cust. Svs.reps.- only word was still trying to obtain part. I have correspondence, etc. In more detail available. Dt
Engine dies when slowing down in traffic. Has died out in traffic on interstate highway three times. Dealer cannot find out what is wrong.- has been serviced three times (total of 26 days) since august, and today is being flatbedded back for fourth time because of same problem. Mileage in august 49099 and now 50963. First service for this problem was at thomas jaguar in hartford, last two times checkered flagg lynnhaven in va. Beach, va, telephone 757-490-1111. *ak
Wilde jaguar of sarasota so. Tamini trail sarasota, fl 34292, (941-924-309) advised, april 2002, i needed electrical wiring harness. David bamber, local jaguar manufacturing rep. Notified for locating part. Called jaguar corp. Customer service june 26, 2002 (1-800-452-4827, option 9, ext 8264) & robert bosack assigned case #6182217. July 18, 2002 talked with ms. Romero, supervisor (1-800-452-4827, option 9, ext 8089)-no positive results for obtaining part. Wrote president michael o'driscoll, jaguar, 555 macarthur blvd. Mahwah nj 07430 seeking help. Response july 22, 2002 from ms nancy synol, executive liaison, but no new advice. Period 26 thru oct.30, 2002 talk with cust. Svs. Reps several times-only word, still trying to obtain part. I have all information in more detail.**** dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis**** 769318. *ak *jb
Seat Belts 10 Read
Driver/passenger seat belts remain fully deployed post use, will partially retract with pushing and pulling several times. Never completely retract, this is a us left side drive 2+2 convertible. *tr
Driver's seat belt won't retract. *ak
Tl* the contact owns a 1990 jaguar xjs. The contact stated that the driver's and passenger's seat belts are not locking into place. The contact stated previously there was a recall for the seat belts for her vehicle. The dealer was contacted and they stated that they do not have the part to repair the seat belt and that is on backorder with no estimated time. There had been no repairs. The failure mileage was 152000 and the current mileage was 157000. Updated 03/02/11 *bf the consumer stated the driver's side seat belt has developed an additional problem. It does not lock into place, it keeps ratcheting back and forth, which wears down the battery. The consumer stated she has to pull the fuse to disable it, which renders the seat belt ineffective . The consumer stated the parts have been on backorder for over a year. Updated 03/09/11
Tl * the contact owns a 1989 jaguar xjs. The contact stated that the restraint system had become inoperable. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign id number: 93v179000 (seat belts) and contacted the dealer for repairs. The contact stated that the parts were not available and he had been attempting to have the vehicle repaired for approximately six months. The manufacturer was contacted who did not offer any assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 58,000.
Email fwd fm roger w. Johnson (tx) re defective automatic seat belts in his 1989 jaguar xjs, requests a defect investigation for possible recall.*mr the vehicles automatic seat belts have failed six times since the consumer owned the vehicle. Each time the manufacturer repaired or replaced the mechanism. The last failure occurred over a year ago and is not repairable due to non-availability of parts. The dealer stated that there was a backlog of consumers with similar problems. *ph *nlm
I request your intervention and investigation on my behalf in regards to jaguar motorcar's seat belt failures. Specifically, i own a 1989 jaguar xjs with automatic seat belts. These belts have failed numerous times since owning this car. The last failure occurred nearly a year ago and is not repairable due to non-availability of parts. The local dealer states he has a backlog of other customers with similar circumstances. Further, the dealer states that the automated system has design errors that are the root cause of the problems. Jaguar is supposedly redesigning the replacement parts but has not made them available to the dealers. Please inquire with whom ever you feel could support our needs in having a functional seat belt system within the car. I understand from the dealer seat belts and seat belt systems are lifetime warranted items.*jb very respectfully, roger w. Johnson
Passenger's side motor belt failed to operate/ nhtsa recall # 93v-179 ooo. Manufacturer notified and informed consumer because the vehicle is out of warranty there is nothing that can be done. *ak
1988 jaguar xjs. Consumer writes in regards to defective drivers side seat belt. *ld the consumer stated the manufacturer repaired the seat belt, but the failure recurred. *js
Tl* the contact owns a 1988 jaguar xjs. The contact stated that the front drivers seat belt would not pull out from its retractor, making it inoperable. An authorized dealer was notified and informed the contact that the warranty was restricted un the nhtsa campaign id number 93v179000 (seat belts). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileages were 67,000.
The driver's side seat belt mechanism (automatic seat belts) on my 1988 jaguar xj6 coupe are not working. Jaguar claims a lifetime warranty. However the parts are on "national back order" according to my dealer. This is a safety issue if i choose to drive my car, possibly a traffic violation as well. Jaguar seems unable/unwilling to honor its warranty, giving in the words of a fellow jaguar owner "a song and dance". *tr
Engine And Engine Cooling 8 Read
Vehicle fire due to catalytic converter overheating. *ak
Vehicle will intermittently shut off/loss of power which could result in an accident.dealer cannot determine defect. *ak
The radiator failed, which caused cross contamination of radiator fluid into the transmission, the dealer flushed the transmission of any contaminants, however the reliability of the transmission was not guaranteed, and weeks later the transmission failed, because of cross contamination. *ak *jb
Vehicle is in park and it will move on level ground or on incline, and will not remain still. Dealer contacted and identified another problem. Said may be connected with the first problem. Transmission fluid is leaking into the engine coolant, the radiator should be replaced and transmission should be serviced. *ak
Vehicle would overheat and stall out completely due to defective catalytic converter. Dealer said that catalytic converter system needed to be replaced.*ak
Gas tank failure caused leakage, resulting in odor and fumes entering vehicle, possibly recall related 90v-123. Consumer request rembersment. *yh
There is smoke emitting from the engine.
Consumer had problems when vehicle was purchased. Engine ran rough, motor would stick & hesitate. Dealer changed spark plugs & repaired seals & injector. The car has a steady history of probelms. *ak
Service Brakes 8 Read
Leased brand new car, it had 1,500 miles on it having problem with the abs anti-lock brake had an accident rear end a car in front. Tt
Vehiclepulls strongly to the right when brakes are applied. *ak
When applying the brakes the vehicle violently veers to the right. Please describe. Tt
The abs is defective. Yh
Total loss of control, for 3-5 sec. With car swerving side to side at 50mph on freeway. Miraculously avoided major collision/injury. My 12 yo daughter said she thought she was going to die.
When brakes were applied slightly harder than normal the vehicle jerked violently to the left crossing center line of roadway. Driver stuggled to pull it back to the right. The right front brakes failed causing that wheel to lock up.
Vehicle was traveling at 25mph when abs were applied and did not function. Vehicle crashed into brick wall.
Abs brake released when on slippery surface. Tt
Hydraulic 7 Read
Leased brand new car, it had 1,500 miles on it having problem with the abs anti-lock brake had an accident rear end a car in front. Tt
Vehiclepulls strongly to the right when brakes are applied. *ak
When applying the brakes the vehicle violently veers to the right. Please describe. Tt
The abs is defective. Yh
Total loss of control, for 3-5 sec. With car swerving side to side at 50mph on freeway. Miraculously avoided major collision/injury. My 12 yo daughter said she thought she was going to die.
When brakes were applied slightly harder than normal the vehicle jerked violently to the left crossing center line of roadway. Driver stuggled to pull it back to the right. The right front brakes failed causing that wheel to lock up.
Abs brake released when on slippery surface. Tt
Structure 6 Read
Door locks stuck on several occasions.
Convertible top leaking.
Convertible top leaks.
Car is like new, always garaged, recently got four small "cuts" around rear glass window in the convertible top material. *ak
While driving my 1992 jaguar xjs the front steering seemed to have a lot of play. Going over bumps or dips in the road made the car drift to the left or to the right. I intially thought it was something to do with the power steering as that part went bad giving me the same conditions when driving. After parking the car in the garageover night i went to back out when i herd a snap. The power stering went out. I did back the car up and left it on the driveway so that it could be towed to great brittans (jag dealor/repair shop). Thats when i found out that the whole front subframe broke and came apart, causing the power steering hose was cut due to the sub assembly falling. I would like to know of other xjs cars reporting this dangerous problem. I now have had 2 different service centers check out the front of the jaguar and they do not see any problem except that the welds came apart. I know that the car is 10 years old and out of warranty as jaguar related to me but the only explanation for this happening is that the subassembly must have been defective in being built. Jaguar has records of all repairs and mileage to all it's cars. Can you request a list of replacements for this part and milage of cars being worked on? It does not seem right that a $65,000 dollar car should fall apart at 112000 miles and the maintenance log book calls out servive to the engine over 250000 miles. Non luxury cars last longer than this....... This problem could have cost me my life if it came apart while i was driving the car. When talking to the service people and jaguar representatives i was under the impression that jaguar knows there is a problem with the front end of this car. I don't know how many accidents happened because of this problem but there must be some. Hopefully they have been reported. *ak
Continuous raw fuel odor when trunk lid opened---called local jaguar dealer and it. *ak
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Jaguar XJS specifications & dimensions
The 1997 Jaguar XJS. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN.
| Specs cache warming… |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Jaguar XJS cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the XJS holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 77 cu ft of passenger volume and 12 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Jaguar XJS tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Jaguar XJS get?
The Jaguar XJS returns up to 18 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine. Pick an engine to see its city / highway / combined rating by year:
| Year | City | Highway | Combined | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 XJS | 15 | 21 | 18 | 4L 6-cyl |
| 1994 XJS | 15 | 21 | 18 | 4L 6-cyl |
| 1995 XJS | 16 | 22 | 18 | 4L 6-cyl |
| 1996 XJS | 16 | 22 | 18 | 4L 6-cyl |
| 1997 XJS | 15 | 21 | 18 | 4L 6-cyl |
| Year | City | Highway | Combined | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 XJS | 11 | 16 | 13 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1985 XJS | 11 | 16 | 13 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1986 XJS | 11 | 16 | 13 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1987 XJS | 12 | 16 | 14 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1988 XJS | 11 | 16 | 13 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1989 XJS | 11 | 15 | 13 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1990 XJS | 12 | 17 | 14 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1991 XJS | 12 | 17 | 14 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1992 XJS | 12 | 17 | 14 | 5.3L 12-cyl |
| 1994 XJS | 11 | 16 | 13 | 6L 12-cyl |
| 1995 XJS | 11 | 15 | 13 | 6L 12-cyl |
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov — best combined rating per engine & year. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
What engines does the Jaguar XJS have? Power & range
The Jaguar XJS is offered with 2 powertrains — 4L 6-cyl, 6L 12-cyl. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| V6 | 4.0L · 6-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | RWD | Premium |
| V8 | 6.0L · 12-cyl | Automatic 4-spd | RWD | Premium |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Jaguar XJS cost to own?
A Jaguar XJS tends to depreciate faster than average. A typical example keeps roughly 37% of its value after five years — losing about 63% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 75% | — | — |
| Year 2 | 63% | — | — |
| Year 3 | 53% | — | — |
| Year 4 | 44% | — | — |
| Year 5 | 37% | — | — |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this XJS loses about 63% of its value over five years.
- Fuel — ≈ $21,500 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the XJS ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
Is the Jaguar XJS safe?
NHTSA crash-test ratings aren't published for the XJS yet.
How many miles does a Jaguar XJS last?
A well-maintained Jaguar XJS typically lasts 200,000–250,000 miles. With regular oil, transmission and timing service, most examples comfortably pass the 200,000-mile mark. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 3.5/5.
Decode your Jaguar XJS’s window sticker & build
Original options, specs, recalls and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Decode VIN →All Jaguar XJS model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Jaguar XJS — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 XJS | 0 | 18 mpg | — |
| 1996 XJS | 1 recall | 18 mpg | — |
| 1995 XJS | 1 recall | 18 mpg | — |
| 1994 XJS | 1 recall | 18 mpg | — |
| 1993 XJS | 1 recall | 18 mpg | — |
| 1992 XJS | 2 recalls | 14 mpg | — |
| 1991 XJS | 1 recall | 14 mpg | — |
| 1990 XJS | 3 recalls | 14 mpg | — |
| 1989 XJS | 4 recalls | 13 mpg | — |
| 1988 XJS | 4 recalls | 13 mpg | — |
| 1987 XJS | 6 recalls | 14 mpg | — |
| 1986 XJS | 4 recalls | 13 mpg | — |
| 1985 XJS | 3 recalls | 13 mpg | — |
| 1984 XJS | 3 recalls | 13 mpg | — |
| 1983 XJS | 4 recalls | — | — |
| 1982 XJS | 6 recalls | — | — |
| 1981 XJS | 2 recalls | — | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the XJS?
By owner-complaint volume, 1990, 1989, 1994 drew the most reports. 1981, 1997, 1982 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the XJS have?
46 recorded NHTSA recalls across 1981–1997. Always check open recalls by your VIN.
What MPG does the XJS get?
Up to 18 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
How many miles does a XJS last?
A well-maintained XJS typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the XJS reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the XJS is 3.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Jaguar XJS warranty?
New Jaguar models carry a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 4 years / 50,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Jaguar dealer.
Where is the Jaguar XJS made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your XJS's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Jaguar may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the XJS have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.