Is it just me or are the brakes on the XJ's (non Rs) spongy? I feel like I need to push them half way down to really get some grip. This isn't a new issue for the car; it's been that way since I bought it. It's very consistent. All four pads and rotors have been replaced through normal wear and there was no change in performance. I drove an XF when my car was last in the shop and the brakes were amazing. It highlighted the poor performance of mine. I recently had to stop quickly from 50 mph and I really had to get on the pedal more than I thought I should need to. It's almost like the rear brakes are pulling the car to a stop more so than the fronts. I've read the post about people using different pads however I haven't seen complaints of poor performance. Are anyone else's brakes like this, or do I have an issue?

 

Im on my second X350 XJ and both have been the same way in the brakes department, even after new pads and rotors. In the beginning, I too was concerned but I learned its just how the cars are. You neednt worry however, because even though the brakes dont feel especially powerful, they will stop the car in a clinch. I can say that from experience.

 

The 06 and later models have some changes in the brakes, you may get a better feel with those cars. I don't have personal experience though.

 

as veffremov said 06 XJs have different brakes and the pedal is more sensitive , but I agree with you though , if i had 6 grand to throw away I would get the complete AP-Racing kit

 

Personal experiance with all my cars/trucks and especially the Jag. Next change in pads go to EBC redstuff. over the years Ive tried lots of different pads with mine and customers and EBC redstuff are the only thing so far Ive found to exceed the stock pads. I even used a set of low dusting ceramics and they were so bad I took them off and tossed em. The EBC redstuffs have excellant pedal feel and really shine even more on hard, or panic braking with no fade

 

Used EBC redstuff in my X type and now in my XJ...its like comparing night to day in the stopping performance and no brake dust!