Greetings,

I know this may come as a shock, but my cat (95 XJ6; 112K mi) has an electrical issue. Two years back, I started the car and the airbag indicator light came on the dash (SRS). No big deal for me; AIRBAG reads on the odometer and an annoying chime (5 beeps) rings every hour or so while I drive. The radio drones it out (tells you something about the music I listen to).

A week ago, I turned off the engine, removed the key from the dash and made my way out of the vehicle. Funny thing, that monotonous chime started to ring. Moreover, my radio was still on. Also, when I locked the door (using my key, the FOB has been dead for many years), the alarm did not engage. I just keep the 1995 stock radio off when I leave the car; battery seems fine - car cranks up with an adequate charge, alternator indicator is at ~14 (normal), lights don't dim when I crank the a/c, etc....

The issue persists (chiming when the engine is off and radio stays on). Any ideas - not a pressing issue, but would like to sort it out.

Thx, J

 

I've moved your question from General Tech Help to X300 forum. Members here with the same model will be able to help.

Graham

 

Classic symptoms of the ignition barrel thinking the key is still in there - search the forum and you will find a number of threads on this issue - can often be fixed with lubricating the barrel with graphite dust.

The "monotonous chime" is the key in ignition warning and it is not the same one you hear when you are driving - that is telling you there is an Air Bag system fault and the Air Bag light doesn't work.

Evidence in itself of why it's not a good idea to ignore system warnings for 2 years!

BTW it is a pressing issue as it won't be long before you find yourself with a flat battery.

 

b1mcp,

thank you for your quick and informative reply. had the tumbler checked; mechanic did not find it at fault. he suspects an issue with a module; i am taking her to an authorized dealer. any suggestions?

many thanks, happy holiday season to you and yours... -J

 

I've got one, Dr: Since you are in Houston, take it to Brutal. Not sure which dealer he works at, but contact him through the forum and he can advise you. The problem we face with authorized dealers is that more and more you'll draw a tech barely as old as your car who won't know beans about it other than what the computer will tell him....and that won't be all that much. Brutal has 2 X300's of his own, he'll help you get it sorted.