I have just got my 2003 XJ8 (X350) 4.2L RHD as a present to myself! It needs a bit of TLC over the coming year but first it would be great to be able to open the bonnet reliably. When the bonnet release lever is pulled, the Offside latch releases but the nearside one is very reluctant and it takes a lot of pulling at the lever to get it to open. I think the pull cable is stretched so isn't releasing anything until the lever has almost run out of movement. How do I adjust the cable or get at it to replace it? Any advice would be appreciated.

 

Hi I have the same x350 but LHD. Hope you managed to open the bonnet.
i recently took the airfilterbox out to clean it and found the hose with the release cable for the latches underneath the box to be worn out and starting to rust that might also be the reason .
you can get to the latshes from under naeth the jag by taking off the first plastic cover and next the airdeflector to the radiators above that one .
other possebilety to get to the middle one is throug the grille. The left thand latch should have an electric connection for bonnet not closed.

 

I've moved your question from General Tech Help to X350 forum. This is the place to post technical questions about your model.

Graham

 

Rusting and seizure of the bonnet cable is a common fault on these cars. I had to replace mine on the first X350 I bought, and that was on only 30k miles !!
It is pointless trying to fix the old cable; just replace it, but make sure it is well lubed before you fit it, (or hand it to a mechanic to fit). I used a Bowden cable lubricator to force oil in.