In December my 2000 S-Type would not start. A mechanic came to my home and soon diagnosed that fuel was not getting to the engine. After checking the fuses and relays he concluded that the fuel pump had failed and needed replacing. I replaced the fuel pump ($500), but still the car would not start. I then engaged an auto-electrician to assess the problem. After also checking the fuses he advised that the original fuel pump was fine and that the problem was that the Rear Electronic Control Module (RECM) had failed. Therefore I replaced the RECM ($300), but still the engine would not start. I then took the car to a mechanic specialising in European cars ($200 towing fees). They said the original RECM was fine. The problem was the earth lead for the fuel pump was not earthing for some unknown reason. They said to find an auto-electrician experienced with complex electronic circuitry – not easy to find when you do not live in the city. Can anyone suggest how/why/where the earth lead from the fuel pump was not earthing somewhere after the fuel pump?
Thanks for any advice.
Magus

 

At least one of those should have known or looked up how it works - it's free on here & JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource (see workshop manual / Electrical Guide) but in any case quite common on cars (not just jags): fuel pump driven via PWM using the "earth" side.

 

Did anyone check to see if there are any DTCs stored?

The fuel pump is also controlled by the CKP, which sends a signal to the PCM that the crankshaft is rotating, If the PCM does not receive the input from the CKP, it shuts off the fuel pump.

Use a smart phone with the Torque app to connect with the vehicle's PCM via the OBD port using a Bluetooth interface. You can see on the app what the fuel pressure is when the ignition is in the ON position prior to engaging the starter motor. There should be around 300 kPa of pressure. If not, begin any further diagnosis with a fully charged battery.

 

My thanks to JagV8 and NBCat for their excellent advice. I printed off what you suggested and gave it to another auto-electrician who was prepared to use it when she tracks down the fault in the earth from the fuel pump.
Regards
Magus