I picked up my 2000 xj8 VP today in Charlotte and drove it back to orlando. Stopped for gas and tried to lock the car with the key. Turned the key to the right I heard a sound in the back but the locks didn't move. I tried again holding the key in place and after 10 seconds or so the windows all started to lower. Any suggestions on how to deal with this issue?

 

The window thing is normal I believe. It'll also open/close the sunroof if the key is held.

 

Well....turning the key to the right UNLOCKS the car. Turning to the left locks it. Unless I misunderstood what you're asking.

 

Sometimes the locking mechanism just needs to be reset: go to the trunk; disconnect the negative battery cable, touch to positive (this drains all capacitors), wait a few minutes reconnect the negative cable and tighten; restart the car. Test the locks, fobs, and keys. Be sure you have all keys outside the car.

This is called a "hard battery reset." Works for many stuck circuits in these vehicles.

 

When you reconnect the battery, sit in the car, turn the key to the Run position, (not start); press the accelerator to the floor and hold for about five- ten seconds. let the pedal go the the idle position for about 5 -10 seconds. Then when you start the car it will usually start normally and idle correctly. I usually end up doing this a few times and the car doesn't start and rev up high for a bit. It's normally just a smooth idle. .