You do know this is true right or are you being sarcstic? Firstly, it does only have one light for reverse, the other light is a rear fog light, secondly you can't replace the bulb you have to replace the entire unit.

 

The designers know for sure, but if I had to guess.. ..I'd guess it's not an issue of saving a couple of $. Apart from signaling others, reverse lights are white, presumably, to help you see what's behind you. But given the limited view out the rear window, and the very effective backup sensor, I'd argue the only purpose of the backup light is only to signal others. ..which one light does well.

 

GhostriderXKR08,

Great video in your signature - well done. And great exhaust note from the XKR. I think you did an aftermarket exhaust upgrade, but hearing it made me think that, although I've had my car for more than a year now, I have yet to hear the exhaust note from outside the car. I've asked my wife to make a high-acceleration pass so I can, but she's afraid to drive it like that.

 

Guys, most European cars only have one reversing and one fog rear lights. Some have two but if one does the job why do you need more?

 

I can't find the post you mention with specifics (cost, description, etc) on the 2010 Tail light upgrade. We have the same exact car and I definitely want to put an end to the (IMO) crazy looking lop-sided tail light issue.. I know it's a British thing...but I live in the US & don't want to explain to every third person that my tail lights are working right...and just LOOKING wrong.

Can you provide the link ?

Much appreciated.

 

When you think about it, makes sense. No law about needing two. And they aren't truly vital (like headlight or turn signal). But you expect that on a Hyundai. Not a Jag!

 

thanks so much. Just had someone tell me one of my lights was out, and although I didn't reach for the owners man, I did check the forum!

 

Hi All. Just to make sure that I am getting this right. One ONE light is the rear fog light and the second light is the reverse light? Thank you.

 

For the first generation XK (pre 2010) that is correct.

Of interest is that the fog light is located on the side closest to the center line.... so countries that drive on the left, the fog is on the right, and those driving on the right, the fog is on the left....

 

I had a friend tell me that one of my backup lights was not working. So, I checked it today and sure enough it was out. Searched my manual and found detail instructions for all bulbs EXCEPT the backup light. I thought that was strange, but got out the tools and thought I'd better check the forum before I start. Wow, ONE fog light and ONE backup light. Never saw that in 55 years of working on cars. Thanks to all of you for the heads-up, you saved me $$ and time!

 

I have just been out to check mine because of the above statement. Your dating is slightly incorrect. I have a 2009 5L Portfolio with 2 reversing and 2 rear fog lights. Perhaps something to do with engine size!!!!!!

 

Yes, the 5L didn't come out over here till MY2010. You guys got it a bit earlier than us.

 

Jim,
There's some confusion about model years. USA 4.2L models began in 2007 and ended in 2009, with the 5.0L models beginning in 2010. UK/European 4.2L models began in 2006 and ended in 2008, with the 5. 0L models beginning in 2009. The new style LED rear tail lights with 2 backup lights and 2 fog lights began with the 5.0L model.

My 2009 XKR Portfolio is a 4.2L with 1 backup light. The USA Portfolio option was available on XKRs only for 2008 and 2009. I believe the UK Portfolio option was available on 5.0L XKs and not XKRs, but I'm not sure.

The model year confusion was caused by global warming.

Stuart

 

That explains it then, thanks for clearing it up.

Makes sense if you guys are a year behind in dates. I'll get my coat!!!!!

 

Hah! I, too, tried to replace the bulb, only to find out when I got the unit out that it was all one piece and no real way to get to the bulb. Actually, not even sure there is a bulb in there, it looked more like 3 reflector cones, with what I'm going to guess are LED's in there? BTW, my car is an '09. THANKS, JAG FORUM!!! for the correct info, now I don't have to spend any more time on this! Live and learn, eh?

 

Let me enlighten you guys

Sir William Lyons was of opinion that racing cars should only have ONE reverse light. In fact he did not want one at all but was persuaded to that I guess grudgingly.

Starting from 1947 or 48 (XK120) ALL Jaguar sports cars including XKE have had one reverse light. The British tradition follows unabated

 

That was changed in the update of 2010. the 2010s and later in the N American market have two backup lights.

 

Simple solution. If you dont need fog lights . Replace your rear Fog light with a light off a car from UK, (same side ) which wont have the fog light, then disconnect your rear fog light power , and cross connect the uk light to your other other reverse light. Walla . two reverse lights.. But no fog lights .
I did this , no more comments , I got my light from UK ebay. $50 us. Bernie..

 

Funny,
I want just the opposite... Two fogs! ( I would cross connect them to operate as both fog or bright red backups!)

Bought one from the UK that was supposed to be new, but was a lie. Got it refunded at the loss of $15 shipping...Grrrrr
Still hunting....

V

 

My neighbor told me mine was out and I looked at the unit before I checked the manual. First day with it and all, looked like I wasn't the first because one one the nuts holding the fog unit in place was missing. Fixed that and moved on.

Replaced an amber side lamp bulb too, funny the car didn't let me know it was out. I though it notified you on all lamps except LED. My 97 told me a puddle lamp was out.

Also miss the bright red fog light(s) on that too. When someone was tailing me I would switch them on and chuckle as they braked. May be a little mean but if I can't see your head lights, you're way to close.