I have a 2004 XJR (X350) and I think I need new brakes. I get a groaning/scraping noise when decelerating from high speed to low, like turning into my driveway or pulling into a parking space.

Anybody have any idea how much a brake job should be - with or without new rotors? Also, are new rotors recommended on these cars each time you change out the pads (like they are on my Porsche)?

Thanks,
Anindya

 

An entire set of pads and rotors on a regular XJ8 will cost around $1000-$1300. An XJR is gonna be more expensive due to the heavy duty Brembo components. They usually suggest changing out the rotors as well. If you're getting that scraping noise, you could be damaging the rotors already. The scraping noise is usually your very last warning before you're metal on metal. You also run the risk of damaging one of the speed sensors, which in turn could damage your ABS system. And trust me, you don't want to drive around without the ABS, especially on a 400hp XJR!

 

Generally speaking with Jaguars, it is a case of new discs about every 3rd change of pads, but sometimes every second set; depends on how vicious the owner is with the brakes. If you are a 'wheel spin to wheel lock' type of driver you are going to have to replace pads and discs much more frequently. No doubt you are NOT !! Once the discs are scored, it is best to replace.

You will find Brembo spares rather eye-watering when you come to pay for them !! Similar to a hard squeeze in the nether regions !

 

If you do them yourself....it's not bad. I replaced pads on my 04 XJR for $200. The car had brakes and rotors replaced about 20K ago. I couldn't stand the dust of the factory pads. If the rotors aren't scored or warped reuse them. You could have them checked to make sure they are still in spec for thickness, but I havn't seen to many rotors get that far in their service life before warping.

 

Thanks for the responses, guys. I'm hopeful that i won't have to get new rotors, but I did notice they are not the Brembo ones (they are not slotted). I've not driven it since the day I posted and I'm debating whether to do this myself. Haven't changed brake pads myself since I was in college (a long time ago) but in this economy, it might be worth a shot.

I'm surprised there aren't any warning sensors that light up the dashboard when the pads get that low. Even my 10 year old minivan lights up the parking brake symbol when my brakes are low. Did I miss a sign somewhere?

 

Your 04 XJR should have Brembos. Mine does and the calipers are silver with red XJR lettering. I didn't need rotors but was going to try this company for rotors. The price isn't too bad, the top of the line is warrentied for warp and is made in America. (might be the last thing) http://brakeperformance.com/site/index.php?ad=direct I haven't found too many optioins for the rotors.

 

Thanks Drew for the link.

Anybody have a link to a service manual?

 

Anindyam,
I don't think standard Brembo rotors are slotted. I could be wrong about that, perhaps others can chime in. In any case, the Brembos on my 05 XJR are not slotted and given the stopping power of my car I don't think I'm missing anything. Go standard non slotted, unless you intend some really serious work, and save some big bucks.

Buy the way, prices on non OEM brembo rotors are all over the place. Some of the after mkt. pieces are just as good as OEM stock at considerable savings.