Folks: IDK how to delete this thread, but the problem has been solved.

Hi. So, I took my 1998 xk8 convertible to the shop yesterday for a $30 smog test (with coupon). Shop could not do the test because, they said, they could not keep the traction control ("TC") switch turned off. They said it would turn off OK, but as they sped up the motor, at around 15 - 25 mph (I forget #), the TC went back on. They can't do a test unless TC remains off.

So far, their bill for labor for trying to remedy the problem is at least $450 US. They say they confirmed that the problem is with the switch. First, they said I needed a new switch, and they were trying to find a used one (as they are not made anymore). Then, they said that, maybe, the switch was just dirty and they would try to clean it. At $154/hour for labor, I am getting concerned.

Question 1: I briefly Googled to find a used TC switch and found nothing. Are they separate or must one buy the entire center console module?

Question 2: Does it seem likely that cleaning the switch will solve the problem?

Question 3: They said that, alternatively, they could bypass the TC system and complete the smog test that way. (I can't renew registration or drive the car without a passing smog test.) Would that be easier/cheaper, if cleaning the TC switch doesn't work? (I don't care if TC is on all the time, EXCEPT that every 2 years, it would need to be bypassed for a smog test.)

My baby has only 50,000 miles on it, so I hope to keep driving it for quite some time.

Any advice that I can pass on to the mechanic would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

I admit that I am not familiar with California smog test laws, but $450 to play with a switch and quickly determine they cannot keep it turned off? I would go looking for a much more customer-friendly shop....

 

IThank you. t's sickening, but everything here in Silicon Valley area is a ripoff, and so far, I have not found a good Jag mechanic near me. Plus, $154-$180 / hour is the going rate for mechanics.

So, I just got a call from the mechanic. They cleaned crud off the switch, and now it works. Cost of this, including smog test, I believe: $387. Sickening!

Now, since I'm throwing money out the window, I asked them to figure out how to fix the door locking electronics, as the fobs (which work) are not opening the doors. Just taking apart the door panel will likely cost $154 or more.

 

Do it yourself. There are many very detailed threads here that will guide you through any door latch/lock fix....

 

I just don't have enough confidence that I could do it. I am not good at fixing things.

 

If you can get it up to Marin County, there is an independent Jag shop there that is reasonable and better yet, very qualified. Google for the name & contact info

 

Thanks, but that is too far from me. (Even I I got the Jag there (in 1-1.5 hours), I couldn't get home while it was being worked on.)

Starting a new thread re the doors.

 

Check out Jaguar Performance Center in Los Gatos.

 

M.,
we appreciate that you posted it and informed us = solved. Don't worry about deleting-someone someday will run into the same problem, it now reference material thanks to you :-).

John