The lurch is a result of the ZF "Mechatronic" Transmission. This means the transmission does not free wheel when you come to a stop as all the older American made 3 speed transmissions do.

So you don't have that smoothness when coming to a stop and some people can feel it better than others and software plays a big part in how the transmission downshifts when you come to a stop. That last shift from 2nd into 1st is usually where we feel the lurch.

As was posted above they seem to have fixed this on the newer 8 speed ZF's.

Here is a bit on the 6 speed ZF that maybe you have not seen before?
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This ZF does not shift into first as you come to a stop. The software causes the tranny to start off in second unless you hit the gas hard.

 

wow I'm happy to come across your thread!! i just acquired a 2001 XJ8 VDP. When I come to a full stop & leave without a foot tromp. It is most apparent that a mild thump occurs but again only in certain scenarios. your saying it is somewhat common & that to me is a relief. No codes indicate driveline/gearbox issues other than abs trac not avail. i'm working on now to clear

 

You've got a different transmission than the models being discussed above. Might want to start a new thread in the XJ8 section.

 

Thanks Mikey, Cheers!!

 

Does this apply across all models? My R shifts into first (in all settings, including "D", except for winter mode), when decelerating down to about 2 - 3 mph. I am certain it is first, not second, as the revs rise very quickly when subsequently setting off and confirmed by accelerating slowly, feeling a change (about 5mph), then going into manual mode and being in "2".

My car is a "VX" registration, or a so called "engineering car" (very early release). I wonder if they changed it after that.

On topic - I also had "the lurch" into 1st as described above. I took my car to a ZF authorised dealer (not a Jag dealer). They serviced the gearbox and rest the software and it's super smooth now, 100% cured the lurch.

 

How much was service ? Where you located? I wouldn't mind know a ZF dealer out here in Los Angeles for same purpose.

 

I'm in Scotland, the ZF dealer is in Glasgow. But I'm guessing that's a long way for a gearbox service ;-)

Cost was £330.

 

Most automatic transmissioned performance cars introduce some sort of engine braking during deceleration if the driving parameters allow, (ie your not in a corner or in snow mod etc.) My XFR has done it from day one, so unless yours is severe my guess is it's normal.