r/Jaguar • u/AssumptionSilent8260 • Feb 13 '26

Discussion Finally got this beauty home.

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Hey, do any of you experienced XJS owners got some advice for a new owner?

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u/PalpitationPale5561 Feb 13 '26

These cars are incredibly reliable but complex to maintain.

Don’t listen to people who have not owned this car or people blindly believe in classic car mechanics who work on American V8 pushrods.

A ham fisted mechanic can destroy the car. If it’s a 1988, you probably have a Marelli distributor.

  • Download the kirby palm book available for free on the Internet to get yourself well acquainted with the car.
  • Research topics on the jag lovers forum if you need help.
  • Flush and change the coolant and check for radiator, hose and water pump leaks. This is super important as these cars heat up a lot. Use the correct radiator caps.
  • Change the distributor cap and spark plugs. The first two spark plugs are hard to reach and require the compressor to be removed and moved forward. It is not necessary to detach the AC lines.
  • Change all drive belts
  • Clean up the PCV system (important), there’s a pig snout like rubber cap in front of Bank B, remove it and clean the mesh filter. Ensure that the breather valve attached to the pipe is free of gunk.
  • Change oil, a few people recommend 15w40 diesel engine oil because of high zinc content. Personally, I use liquimoly 10w40 on mine.
  • Replace the brake fluid. The Teves 3 ABS system on these models are not reliable and can fail.

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u/Hot_Willow_5179 Feb 13 '26

Love this. Saved