I just got another S-Type, this time it's a 2003 V6 2.5l petrol. Test drove it with no issues other than a couple of dashboard errors, put my Android Auto Pioneer box in it and the thing wouldn't start. Charged the battery and started it up and got every single possible code from Restricted Performance to Gear Box Fault. Hmmmmmmm......

Took it to my local garage and they tested the battery. It was the original Jag battery and over 15 years old. Instead of putting out 800amps it was pushing barely 200amps. They put a brand new heavy duty battery on it and everything works.

Apparently, if the battery in one of these isn't 100% then all manner of nasties become apparent (even though they aren't real problems). I have had quite a few S-Types and never knew this could be a problem.

So, my first post here is really just to help anyone out who suddenly gets a random bunch of errors - CHECK YOUR BATTERY.

And whilst I was at it, I've upgraded the headlight bulbs to Xenon (40% brighter) and side lights to LED. Makes a big difference and the eyes on my cat fairly gleam in the dark ;-)

Thanks for having me!

 

Yes, the battery should show a minimum of 12.6 volts when tested across the terminals with a voltmeter after a cold-soak overnight. If the battery shows less than 12.6 volts, charge it for 10 hours at 3 to 5 amps and retest the battery. Many of the DTCs and other random faults and gremlins chased across these forums are the result of a failing or weak battery.

Make sure you report any modifications to the lighting to your insurance carrier.

 

Thanks for the post as its another account of old battery causing problems.