I just bought a 2006 XJ8L and today the engine malfunction light came on. Is this a warning that some sort of service needs to be done or does it really need service? It has 30,670 miles.

 

Deb, I would recommend taking the car to a local auto parts store and seeing what code(s) pop up. That will help us narrow down what could be wrong and then get you going on the right track to a fix.

As for "how bad" this could be, the basic rule is that if the light is simply on solid, it is more than likely an emissions thing and nothing serious is going to happen to the engine. If the light is continuously flashing on and off, then you are risking engine damage and use of the engine needs to be minimized.

 

This one could be moved over to the X350 forum.

Debfun - As Thermo states, the codes that produced the CEL need to be read. Without them it is as nebulous as going to your doctor and saying "I don't feel well." The first question back might be "Where does it hurt?" which is the equivalent of reading the codes.