Hello, I'm fixing a 2008 Jaguar XJ VDP that had some damage in the front. Both headlights must be replaced but I bought another 2008 Jaguar XJ for parts since it was more cost efficient. The parts car is not a VDP but does have nav and hids. I was told if your car came with it and you didnt put them back in it can mess with the air ride. So my question is did my car come with them from the factory and if so how can I determine if the lights I have are auto-leveling?

 

If this Jaguar Technical Bulletin (SSM17841) is true your car is well past the VIN change so shouldn't have the self levelling motors:

Question: I have seen, on the latest XJ saloons, Xenon (HID) headlamps that do not have the stepper motor fitted. Why is this?

Answer: The stepper motor is a devise to level the headlamp in the event that a vehicle is carrying a heavy load.

As the NEW XJ is fitted with self levelling suspension the self levelling headlamp was considered a non value added feature. The new lamp was introduced at vin G39155. It is possible that on the initial change some vehicles may still be fitted with the 'old' harness with the connector for the stepper motor 'taped' out of the way. This will in no way compromise the operation of the lamp or the vehicle.

Note: Halogen lamps have never been fitted with stepper motors.

The 2008 wiring diagram still shows the self levelling module so who knows what is correct

 

It is fairly easy to see if you have auto leveling headlights by starting up the car while parked facing a wall with the lights on. If you have auto leveling lights, you will see the headlights dip down, then come back up to the correct height.

 

if i had the luxury of turning my lights on i wouldnt need to even ask this question. the car has been involved in an accident as i said above. Thank you for all the responses though...