Found out why my instrument lights didn't work
 

I had a problem with my XKR which I have just bought in that the instrument lights didn't work when then ignition was on (didn't realise they didn't work as it was very bright when bought car).

Any way checked google and it seemed to indicate it was dimmer module or light switch but something didn't seem right . Any way to get to the point of a saga that has lasted 2 weeks and included removing steering wheel to check light switch and wiring . I had also early on after looking in handbook and finding there was a fuse no13 for the dimmer module in passenger fuse box checked it but hadn't removed it just did a resistance check on fuse.

Anyway looking at the JTIS wiring diagrams trying to trace things noticed fuse 13 showed it wasn't used however fuse 18 which in the handbook said not used was used for the dimmer module. All became clear when i removed fuse no 13 it almost fell out but when put in fuse no 18 that was more firm and hey presto instrument lights worked.

I can't understand what the previous owner had done but just pleased that i had jtis and can read a wiring diagram. I could have ended up buying a dimmer module and a light switch stalk and still not sorted.

I assume Jaguar changed things but had too many handbooks printed to throw them out. Maybe they did an addendum which has got lost?

good detective skills, I assure you they will be tested again sometime down the road (don't celebrate where the car can see you...bad karma) :)

Good advice . I think it has thought of the next problem the good old abs and trac control not avaiable popped up today only had it once before turned of ignition and on and went away but think it just lurking in the background

hydraulic pump motor failure code = ABS module rebuild, start saving your pennies. :)

Thanks thats cheered me up???!!!!.

I was hoping it was dirty sensors or the wiring problem?

This post might help Front Brakes on 2001 XKR - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum

I recently had the same message, the left front ABS sensor was bad. Still cost a few bucks to fix but not as involved as the ABS unit or module.

Im on my third XK and every ones given that fault, usually started intermittently, it was never the sensor, always the cable from sensor to connector under bonnet, conductors break inside insulation.
bob

Great info,thanks for that,and thanks to the thread starter for the info,this is the sort of stuff that makes a forum like this indispensable.

Didn't meant to be Mr. Negative, what I should have said is, if it keeps appearing, and the dealer IDS/WDS or an autoengenuity w/ enhanced features activated pulls the code for the hydraulic pump motor (which isn't really what is wrong...its that solder connection(s)) And, its not that expensive either, I think rebuilds are in the $200-$250 range. Just wanted to give you some pre-emptive diagnostic paths if you need the next branch.

Any leads on good ABS rebuild firm? I have an 02 XK8 w/TC in SoCal

"h20 boy" my response was a bit tongue in cheek .
Thanks for the guidance I hope I wont need it.

As a new owner I think I am already getting to understand XK ownership.
Anything can happen and it probably will sometime!

I was chuffed I had saved myself a load of money but silly me all it means is I will end up spending it on something else!

I dont want to tempt providence, but its all quiet at the moment!