We use a CTEK battery maintainer on our 2013 XK, and It is plugged in every time it is back in the garage. It always starts fine, and doesn’t give any of the failing battery symptoms. My question is if this giving us a “false sense of security” as far as battery condition is concerned?
We have some long trips planned for this summer of two or more weeks, and will not be able to plug it in each night, if at all. Might there be a failing battery problem that is being covered up by having it plugged in each night that will surface during this long term of being unplugged?
THANKS,
STEVE
2013 XK

 

If the battery is old, say over 4 years old. I'd replace it. Simple and easy to do in most cases and will keep you from being stuck in the middle of nowhere. I used to just keep going until they failed until I lost a whole day waiting, now I try to change them just before they go out.

 

I've deleted your identical post from Jaguar Forums Feedback & Suggestion Center forum.

Even using a CTEK tender, I find the average life of batteries in my recent Jaguars has been five years. However, across the forums some members are still running around happily with ten year old batteries.

It's unlikely to suddenly fail to the point of leaving you stranded but as you will probably need a replacement in the next year or so, bringing the change forwards would cross off one thing from the list of things to worry about on your trips.

Graham

 

The problem with batteries is when they get discharged, when they are recharged they generally only recoup to a % not the full 100 this is for the newer batteries, the old lead acid did not have this problem. Also the older cars do not have the constant (micro) current draw of the new cars. I can leave my S11 for weeks on end and not have a problem starting up I would not be able to do that with my ‘92 XJ40
I haven’t left my XJR long enough to find out yet

 

I keep my X308 on a NOCO Genius 1100 "smart" battery maintainer. It's excellent !

 

You dont mention the age of the battery, I assume it from 2013. If you maintain it to that level I doubt it would be an issue as its pretty much optimal conditions.

If you have lingering doubts go to an auto electrician/ battery place to get it load tested.

I routinely replace batteries at about 4 years. I'd rather avoid an inconvenient breakdown than try to wring out the last year or two out of a battery. I could probably go longer as my climate is fairly benign most of the time, but 4 years seems to be the sweet spot for me.

 

The answer is yes.

My 13 year old battery was "looked after" by my Ctek for the last 3 years however my battery failed a couple or so months ago even tho the Ctek indicated a full charge.

Also standard lead acid batteries are not a good replacement for Jaguar cars. You need a calcium plate technology battery or you will be replacing every few years or so.

Plenty of info in this forum.