Started having issues with my 03 XJ8 in January. Overheating problem to start with. Changed thermostat, flushed and refilled coolant, oil change. Everything seemed ok until last week when it started making a weird, whining noise from the engine compartment. Thought water pump and replaced that. Tonight, everything started going crazy. Still making noise and smoke, lights dim, hard to steer, warning messages: trac not available, asc not available, engine coolant low, no bright lights. Please someone help! I'm at the end of my rope.

 

Remove the belt and see what pulley is siezed

 

Sounds like a dead altenator...

 

All good advice. Either alternator is toast or your water pump or idler pulley is seized.

 

Is this an X308 or X350?