1993 XJS Convertable. When engaging the safety brake to close the top and after a few repeated disengagement try’s (light came off). Drove the car. There was a slight/moderate smell, no smoke or anything. Brake light still off. Then about 15 minutes later a very consistent squeezing noise began out of the rear brake area that did not stop. Where should I start!?

 

Have you got Outboard rear brakes or Inboard brakes?

Paul

 

Jack the rear of the car up and see if the wheels turn free (in neutral chock the front wheels). Sounds like the parking brake (I assume thats what you mean by safety brake?) is stuck. Cables for parking brakes like to rust on all cars if they dont get used. Could also be a seized caliper. trying to spin each back wheel individually should tell you if its one or both. **** I have no XJS experience but just general car experience.******

 

Good advice. However from the tone of the question, I suggest he take it to a Jaguar specialist and have the brakes repaired.
While it would be a pleasant, ( and not very expensive) few hours of work for me or any DIY type guy, it will be a rather expensive repair at a shop.
Any 20 year old car could have similar issues.
It’s not cheap to have others do your repairs on collector cars. Those shops aren’t cheating you or ripping you off. It’s expensive to run one. Good help is expensive and quickly getting a lot more expensive. That plus all the overhead etc.

 

It's a very different issue, whether handbrake or footbrake calipers, depending whether it's outboard or inboard setup.

Paul

 

Paul.
You are correct as usual. To most DIY. People it’s a simple matter. However the tone of the question indicates a lack of that skill set.
Perhaps I’m judgmental assuming that. if so I apologize sincerely.
I’m trying to be helpful and simplify the decision process rather than confusing.

 

Mguar,

I do agree with you. If that's an inboard disc car, then it's not the easiest place for a new owner to start, as we well know. I guess it's always helpful if the original poster gives a rough indication of their knowledge level, so that members may suggest an approach that is appropriate to the knowledge or capability of the post owner. And, as you say, that may well involve taking it to a specialist.

Cheers

Paul