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Known Faults Database

Jaguar XJ problems, reliability and years to avoid

If you are considering buying a used Jaguar XJ, these are the common problems worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 3 known faults for this model, 1 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.

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Is the Jaguar XJ reliable?

The Jaguar XJ has 3 known faults in our database across 2 generations, 1 of them rated high severity. The most serious are engine (the crankshaft bearings on the Ford-built AJD-V6 diesel can spin) and engine (the secondary turbocharger actuator on the 3.0 twin-turbo V6 diesel sticks or fails). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.

That is a count of the faults we hold, not a reliability score. Popular cars get written about more, and a newer generation has had less time to show its faults.

Which Jaguar XJ years should you avoid?

No year is a write-off on its own. What matters is which serious faults a given year and engine can have, and whether the car in front of you has had them fixed.

X350, 2003 to 2009
1 known fault, none rated high severity
X351, 2010 to 20191 high severity
2 known faults, the serious ones in the engine

Years and engines with a serious known fault

  • 2008 to 2019, 2.7 V6 diesel (XF 2008 to early 2009, XJ to 2009) / 3.0 V6 diesel (XF and XJ from 2009): the crankshaft bearings on the Ford-built AJD-V6 diesel can spin

Each one is set out in full below, with the symptoms, the typical mileage and a rough repair cost.

Generation 1 of 21 known fault

Jaguar XJ X350 (2003 to 2009) problems

Engine/EmissionsMedium severity📝 Editorial

The 2.7 V6 diesel mounts its timing belt tensioner on the oil pump casing, and on this engine the casing can break away or the tensioner can fail, throwing the timing belt and wrecking the engine. The owner reports are from Land Rovers with the same 2.7 TDV6 (failures at 60,000 and 88,000 miles among them), which the XJ 2.7 diesel shares. One owner was told to have the oil pump upgraded at every timing belt change.

Typical symptoms

  • rumble from under the engine then loss of power
  • engine stops and won't restart

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.7 V6 diesel (TDV6)
Typical mileage:
60000-88000 miles
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Generation 2 of 22 known faults · 8 owner reports · 15 good notes

Jaguar XJ X351 (2010 to 2019) problems

Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial

The crankshaft bearings on the Ford-built AJD-V6 diesel can spin and the crankshaft can break, wrecking the engine. It affects the 2.7 V6 diesel, fitted to the XF only from launch in 2008 until early 2009, and the 3.0 V6 diesel that replaced it; one 2016 XJ 3.0 diesel needed a new crankshaft at 2,200 miles, and a 2010 XF 3.0 diesel needed a new engine after its big end bearings failed. A report says Jaguar's extended warranty excludes damage from inherent design faults, and that crankshaft failures on this engine would not be covered.

Rough guide
£Unknown

Typical symptoms

  • loud knocking from bottom of engine
  • sudden engine seizure while driving
  • no prior warning lights before failure

Affected vehicles

Engines:
2.7 V6 diesel (XF 2008 to early 2009, XJ to 2009) / 3.0 V6 diesel (XF and XJ from 2009)
Typical mileage:
Unknown miles
2 more owner reports back this up
  • April 2018A 2016 XJ Autobiography 3.0V6 diesel required a new engine under warranty, possibly due to a crankshaft bearing issue.
  • January 2017A 2016 XJ 3.0V6 diesel needed a crankshaft replacement at 2,200 miles, then suffered engine failure at 12,500 miles.
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Engine/EmissionsMedium severity📝 Editorial

The secondary turbocharger actuator on the 3.0 twin-turbo V6 diesel sticks or fails, putting the car into its Restricted Performance limp mode, typically with P22D3/P22CF codes. It is a recognised fault that Jaguar addressed on many cars under a technical service bulletin, and the related vacuum pipework and shut-off valve under the front of the engine also seizes. Owners repeatedly report extended warranties refusing the claim on the grounds that the actuator is not technically part of the turbo, so the cost usually lands on the buyer at around 500-900 pounds fitted

Rough guide
£500-900

Typical symptoms

  • 'Restricted Performance' red warning message
  • limp mode under hard acceleration
  • P22D3 or similar fault codes

Affected vehicles

Engines:
3.0 V6 twin-turbo diesel (the same engine as the XF)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
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What owners report on the X351

8 single reports, unconfirmed

One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.

  • Engine · May 2019A September 2018 XJ 3.0D experienced oil dilution, requiring changes every 3,000 miles, which was eventually resolved by fitting a new throttle body.
  • Electrics · August 2018Airbags in a 2012 XJL deployed without impact while reversing, leading to extensive repair needs for the vehicle.
  • Cooling · June 2018A 2013 XJL 3.0V6 SC had its water pump replaced under warranty at 40,000 miles, followed by a £1,750 supercharger repair.
  • Electrics · September 2017A 2016 XJ had an issue where the service indicator message did not display due to an incompatibility between modules.
  • Bodywork · October 2014Bonnet airbags on a Jaguar XJ deployed without apparent reason, likely due to a pothole, costing £2,000 to repair.
  • Engine · September 2013A December 2012 XJ, nine months old, developed an oil leak that the dealer failed to fix after two attempts.
  • Electrics · May 2011Rear light clusters on this model are susceptible to moisture ingress, potentially affecting their function.
  • Electrics · May 2011The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System valves on this vehicle are prone to failure, requiring replacement.

What owners like about the X351

15 notes
  • September 2010The 2010 XJ 3.0-Litre V6 Diesel Long Wheelbase model was awarded Car of the Year by Professional Driver magazine.
  • The all-new XJ features an innovative panoramic glass roof, enhancing interior light and space while allowing a sleek roofline.
  • Both standard and long-wheelbase XJ models offer generous interior space, with the latter providing 125mm more rear legroom.
  • The XJ's cabin combines elegant, modern design with comfort and luxury, featuring chrome and piano black detailing.
  • The XJ offers extensive customisation options for colours, veneers, and leathers, across Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Portfolio specifications.
  • The XJ offers efficient petrol and diesel engines, with the 3.0-litre V6 diesel achieving 40.1mpg combined and 184g/km CO2.
  • The XJ incorporates advanced dynamic technologies like air suspension and Adaptive Dynamics for responsive handling and a refined ride.
  • The XJ features a 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual Instrument display and an 8-inch Dual-View touchscreen for infotainment.
  • Premium surround sound options include a 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, with hard drive-based audio and comprehensive media connectivity.
  • Research indicates the 3.0-litre diesel XJ retains more value than an equivalent Mercedes-Benz S-Class after three years and 60,000 miles.
  • An armoured XJ Sentinel was launched, offering discreet B7 ballistic protection while being almost indistinguishable from the standard model.
  • The XJ Sentinel comes with a three-year, 50,000-mile factory warranty and comprehensive after-sales support from specialised technicians.
  • Based on the long-wheelbase XJ, the armoured Sentinel maintains the luxurious interior, comfort, agility, and standard servicing.
  • The XJ's lightweight aluminium body structure enables a substantial 500kg load capacity for occupants and their items, without affecting vehicle performance.
  • The XJ Sentinel model incorporates a specially developed armouring system, providing excellent occupant protection while remaining externally undetectable.

Sellers rarely admit these faults outright

We track 8 specific phrases sellers use in adverts to soft-pedal these exact issues. Paste any Jaguar XJ advert and we check it in seconds.

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Jaguar XJ recalls

Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. These are the 12 DVSA recalls for the XJ, newest first. They do not tell you whether this particular car has had the work: for that, put the registration into the free GOV.UK MOT history check, which shows a recall status where the manufacturer shares it, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.

🏛️ December 2025Cars built January 2013 to May 2018

Security Guidance

Jaguar Land Rover in conjunction with law enforcement and insurance bodies is aware of the increase in thefts of vehicles in specific geographical locations within the United Kingdom. There is no fault with Jaguar Land Rover's security systems and they continue to meet stringent automotive legislation. Jaguar Land Rover is offering owners guidance on how to maximise vehicle security and protect against theft

Put right by: Vehicle registered keepers will be sent a security guidance letter only - there is no repair action.

DVSA R/2025/4887,311 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ September 2020Cars built June 2009 to May 2019

Front air bags may not deploy when required

Front Air Bags may not deploy when required.

Put right by: Update the Restrain Control Module (RCM) with the latest software

DVSA R/2020/26140 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ January 2019Cars built October 2018 to December 2018

The crankshaft pulley retaining bolt may fracture

The crankshaft pulley retaining bolt may fracture due to a production specification error.

Put right by: Replace the crankshaft pulley centre retaining bolt with one that has been manufactured to the correct specification.

DVSA R/2019/01429 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2017Cars built September 2016 to August 2017

Instrument cluster may intermittently go blank

Due to a software issue the Instrument cluster may intermittently go blank.

Put right by: Affected vehicles will be recalled to have the latest software installed/downloaded.

DVSA R/2017/2918,314 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ July 2017Cars built June 2009 to September 2010

SRS did not deploy airbags as intended

When connected to Jaguar Land Rovers Symptom Driven Diagnostics (SDD) device and an update is unsuccessfully undertaken the calibration may default to a pre-set condition. In the event of a frontal impact of a sufficient severity to require the Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) to deploy the front airbags the airbags will deploy but at impact thresholds that exceed those which provide the required occupant protection. Failure of the airbags to deploy as required can lead to increased injuries to the occupants.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the RCM with the latest software.

DVSA R/2017/1952,109 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2016Cars built September 2016 to December 2016

Passenger airbag may not deploy

It has been identified by the air-bag manufacturer that the air-bag initiator generant mix ratio does not meet specification. This can therefore result in the initiator not functioning correctly which can lead to none deployment of the air-bag. Should a collision occur then there is an increased risk of injury to the passenger.

Put right by: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the air-bag with a new quality assured component.

DVSA R/2016/30515 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2016Cars built May 2016 to June 2016

Airbag may deploy incorrectly

Due to a nonconformity of production the driver's air bag may not deploy correctly and may not provide protection as intended.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace driver's air bag

DVSA R/2016/1336 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ June 2016Cars built March 2012 to July 2015

Possible loss of steering assistance

The auxiliary drive belt pulley retainer may fail and cause loss of drive to auxiliary items including the water pump and power steering pump. This may cause an engine management lamp to illuminate engine overheating or a reduction in steering assistance though steering control will be maintained.

Put right by: On affected vehicles replace auxiliary belt idler pulley and retainer.

DVSA R/2016/036318 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ December 2014Cars built February 2014 to July 2014

Brake fluid may leak

Underbody brake pipe unions may not have been tightened to the specified torque. This may cause loss of brake fluid extended brake pedal travel and if both circuits fail loss of braking performance. The Fluid level low message may appear and the brake warning lamp may illuminate. In some instances sufficient loss of brake fluid may prevent the vehicle from starting.

Put right by: On affected vehicles inspect unions and where necessary tighten unions to specified torque. Check brake fluid level and where necessary top up to correct level

DVSA R/2014/156631 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ October 2014Cars built August 2014 to October 2014

Risk of fire

The positive cable fixing to the alternator may come loose and lead to an elevated risk of fire. Additionally there are concerns raised regarding the fixings for the engine mounted belt driven ancillaries. If the fixings fail power assistance to the steering can be lost and more input from the driver will be required to steer the vehicle.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to inspect and torque the front ancillary fixings to the correct specification.

DVSA R/2014/1452,612 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ April 2014Cars built May 2013 to January 2014

Directional control may be compromised

A concern has been identified where in the event of prolonged aggressive driving it is possible that the rear toe link will separate from the rear sub-frame. In this event vehicle stability will be compromised and degree of directional control minimised which increases the risk of an accident.

Put right by: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the nut and washer assembly on the rear toe link with components of revised design.

DVSA R/2014/04191 vehicles affected in the UK
🏛️ August 2013Cars built March 2012 to May 2013

Engine may cut out

It has been established that the Charge Air Cooler (CAC) hoses and resonator pipe have not been assembled to the correct specification. It is therefore possible that under certain conditions the CAC hose can detach from the resonator. This could result in the engine cutting out and possible loss of vacuum assistance for the brake servo.

Put right by: Recall the affected vehicle and rectify the issue.

DVSA R/2013/09076 vehicles affected in the UK

Recall data published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency under the Open Government Licence v3.0. A recall listed here may not apply to every car of this model: the build dates and the registration check are what decide it.

Jaguar XJ cambelt, and service intervals

An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used XJ. These are the figures UK specialists work to.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
3.0D, 3.0 V6 DIESEL, TDV6, SDV6
112,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first

3.0 V6 diesel. Jaguar's figure for the timing belt has been given as 112,000 miles or 10 years, while specialists quote the schedule as 7 years or 112,000 miles; the shorter 7-year limit is recorded. Belts have failed before the mileage limit: owners reported a failure at 100,000 miles on a 2009/10 car, with valve damage, and another at 106,000 miles on a 2009 car. There is also a separate rear belt driving the high-pressure fuel pump; replace both together. It is an interference engine, so a failure wrecks it.

Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
2.7D, 2.7 V6 DIESEL, 2.7 TDV6
105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first

2.7 V6 diesel (XF 2008 to early 2009, XJ 2005 to 2009). Specialists quote this engine at 105,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first, with the rear fuel pump belt replaced at the same time. The tensioner mounting on the oil pump casing has sheared off at 60,000 miles on this engine, letting the belt come off; it is an interference engine, so a failure wrecks it.

Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.

Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026

Jaguar XJ buying questions

What are the most common Jaguar XJ problems?

Three stand out. Engine: the crankshaft bearings on the Ford-built AJD-V6 diesel can spin and the crankshaft can break. Engine: the secondary turbocharger actuator on the 3.0 twin-turbo V6 diesel sticks or fails (typically 60000 to 100000 miles). Engine: the 2.7 V6 diesel mounts its timing belt tensioner on the oil pump casing (typically 60000 to 88000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.

Which Jaguar XJ years should I avoid?

No Jaguar XJ year is a write-off, but the X351 (2010 to 2019) carries the most serious faults: engine. The X350 (2003 to 2009) has none rated high severity. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.

What should I check when viewing a used Jaguar XJ?

Ask the seller about the engine faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for loud knocking from bottom of engine, 'Restricted Performance' red warning message and rumble from under the engine then loss of power. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 3 known faults before you travel. Check a Jaguar XJ advert →

Are there any recalls on the Jaguar XJ?

The DVSA lists 12 safety recalls for the Jaguar XJ issued between 2013 and 2025. The most recent, from December 2025, is "Security Guidance". Recall work is done by the manufacturer, and GOV.UK says you will not usually have to pay for it. This list is by model, so it cannot tell you whether one particular car has had the work: the free GOV.UK MOT history check shows a recall status from the registration where the manufacturer shares it, and a franchised dealer can check the VIN.

What is the real MPG of a Jaguar XJ?

Owners report 35.3 mpg on average across the Jaguar XJ engines with data, about 104% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 317 owner submissions. Jaguar XJ Real MPG by engine →

Looking at a Jaguar XJ right now? Check the advert before you go and see it.

Where this Jaguar XJ fault data comes from

If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Jaguar XJ owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.

CarAdCheck is not affiliated with Honest John or Volkswagen Financial Services. What happened to Honest John, and where each feature lives now.

Before you go and see it

Knowing what a Jaguar XJ goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.

AI car check: what AI can and can't tell you about a used car9 min readShould I buy this car? The ten-minute check that answers it from the advert12 min readWhat used car advert phrases really mean, from spares or repairs to sold as seen10 min read
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Other Jaguar models

S-Type11 known faultsX-Type6 known faultsXF4 known faults