Last night tried turning AC on (1997 XK8), only hot air. Using instructions posted in FAQ checked error codes thru internal diagnostic. Display indicates 14 and 23. From what I could see, 23 means low refrigerant. What my next ste should be, recharge? Thanks.

 

23 is either bad refrigerant pressure switch or bad coolant level.
This https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...de-23-a-74774/
might help.
I jumpered the compressor clutch to check if it was the pressure switch, no good.
I was lucky, the Schrader type filling valve was defective and a refill fixed it.
You shouldn't have a code 14 as well - can you clear that?

 

I had the same experience recently as well. Before you attempt a recharge the system should be pressure tested. I was hoping my issue was a simple recharge but unfortunately there was a leak detected as an oil line to the oil cooler had dislodged from its mount and was chafing against the A/C line. Fortunately the A/C line leaked before the oil cooler line. Both were replaced, the system was recharged and it's all good.

 

+! on trying to simply clear out code 14. Turning the ignition on with the instrument cluster disconnected will cause this code. It may have happened at some time during a repair.

 

Cleared 14, no issues. Not sure what was the reason. The only thing that comes to mind is when I disconnected passenger side airbag a whil back. Could be from a previous owner. 23 unable to clear. Thank you for the link above. Planning to take it to my mechanic hoping he could locate a leak. He doesn't charge much, thinking this is a better idea than trying to jump a low pressure relay.

 

Picked it up today, AC is recharged and ice cold. Was able to reset code 23. Bad news is no leak was found. My mechanic says next step is to replace a compressor if it stops working again which according to him is $2-$3K. Spending that kind of money for the AC would be painful. Hopping this is not the case, anything I should be doing / looking at in the meantime. Thanks.

 

It sure does not sound like you need a new compressor, but even if you did a remanufactured one can be had for $200! Jaguar 97-98 XK8, AIR CONDITIONING A/C COMPRESSOR w/Sensor (Reman) - MCA7300AD | eBay

 

It certainly is a relief to know that remanufactured compressors are available, thank you for the link. If it stops working again in a month or so what my course of action should be? For $200 should i get the one from ebay as an insurance? Thanks.

 

If it happens again I would have a different mechanic try to find the leak.

 

Thanks

 

+1 on that! Was there dye in the refrigerant he used ? If so a UV lamp could be used to find any leak.
Also (at least in my experience) the normal re-fill procedure involves pulling a vacuum first to check system integrity - it is irresponsible to fill a leaking system.
Keep us informed.