Air suspension compressor replacement
 

Hello,

I have a 2012 xj and the rear compressor needed to replaced. Although I had an extended CPO warranty, Jaguar said it was not covered under the CPO warranty. The two Jaguar dealers in town wanted $2k to replace it.

I decided to replace it myself. The compressor is the same for at least the 2011-2015 xj series. I bought a compressor online that was remanufactured for $350 but it did not have threaded holes for the bracket mount. I will be sending back for a refund. I ended up buying one from a salvage site for $250 u.s. I was able to select it from a car based on year and mileage. I selected a 2015 xj with 35,000 miles. They also shipped me the valve block at that price which could help if you are unsure if that part is also defective.

I had a total of 5 hours for research, install and trouble shooting. If I had to do it again, I would cut the time by half. The compressor is located in the trunk. The following are the steps I took to install

Disconnect battery
Remove all shrouds for full access
Disconnect 2 electrical connections
Disconnect air lines, air intake hose
Remove and replace unit
Reconnect

The most challenging part was the time it took the car to " learn" and send the signal to the compressor to pump up the rear end. I drove it and turned the car on and off several times but the suspension compressor would not engage. I thought I made a mistake or there was another problem in addition to the compressor. After several more short drives and turning the ignition of and on, it finally pumped up. It works great and seems to be fine. There may be a better way to "start up" this compressor. I had no instructions and could not find anything info online. I had to rely on trial and error so if someone knows a better way, please add to this thread.

I have read if a compressor goes out, it could be due to a leak in the system. If the compressor dies again in the near future, I will investigate further.

Overall, this is a simple job. The dealers wanted $1500-$1700 for the part and a few hours for labor. At 5 hours of work on my end, it was worth the $1750 in savings.

Hope this helps someone.

I find it hard to believe that it was not covered under CPO. Did you think of calling Jaguar North America and speaking to a representative? I would even after you have done the work maybe they will reimburse you.

Thanks for the repair info!
Glad that it seems this is a rare failure compared to earlier versions of the XJ!
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I've had a lot of experience with both Jag's CPO warranty and extended warranties. The problem I found is their definition of what's "normal wear and tear" and not covering "trim" nor rubber bushings, hoses and the like. Sounds O.K. on the definition, but when you realize that "rubber" is an integral part of many items in the suspension, it turns out to be a rat's nest of confusion. Confusion from the owner, not necessarily with JLR. I agree, a discussion with the Regional Office in N.J. is always a good idea. Be cool, polite and explain the situation as best you can.

Many years ago, an aftermarket extended service contract provider denied my claim based on a vague and ambiguous limitation provision in the contract. After receiving a letter from my lawyer threatening litigation they paid my claim.

Don't cave in on a denial of coverage. They'll pay if coverage is unclear and it costs less to pay the claim than to go to court.

Sounds much easier to do than on the old X350 where it was basically suspended in midair behind the driver's side of the front bumper.