I own a 1998 XK8 and was having problems with the key fob. Checked the fuses - all ok. Had the fob repaired all good, reset the fob in the usual way and it worked perfectly.
Went back yesterday and the fob would not work, reset again in the usual way but it would not work, checked the fuses all ok. The key locks the car and both door lock.

Would appreciate any advice . I will take the fob back to the repairers but if they say its working properly and all fuses are working and the key locks both doors automatically, domino really know what it could be.

Many thanks

 

This is a long shot but may be worth a try: If you look in the ignition switch keyhole, you should see a flap or shutter. It is spring loaded and should close the keyhole when you remove the key. It can get sticky and stay open, then the system 'thinks' that there is a key in the ignition and so disables the remote locking. A small squirt of electronics cleaner plus a tiny bit of graphite lubricant on the key and then inserted in and out several times should free it up. (Before putting the key back in your pocket, be sure to wipe it down with a rag to clean the excess lubricant off.)

Second thing to check would be the security module in the boot. I am told the connections are subject to corrosion from damp air. It's located in the right hand side in front of, and slightly to the right of, the battery. Just undo the couple of bolts that secure the module cradle and you'll see the module right at the bottom (look for the coaxial lead going into it). Just unplug it and replug it back in a couple of times to clean off any corrosion, or spray a little electronics cleaner on the connectors and scuff them with a clean toothbrush (not your wife's; they tend to object to that for some reason...). Check to see if it works before bolting it all back. Worse case, it might be the security module itself.

 

Redline,

Many thanks will try both and see if it resolves the problem, if not I will post.

Again many thanks for your reply.


Cheers

 

JagJoe......Real long shot.....Put a new Batteries in the Klickers......whoever repaired(?) them may have use old Batteries......Sorry, I've never heard of repairing one other than putting in a new Battery! What could you repair?

Billy Clyde in Houston

 

JagJoe, we're all holding our breath here. Any luck with the suggestions offered?

 

Car is in storage and have not been there yet. I will keep you updated as soon as I try what you have suggested, much appreciated for the replies.

I have already replaced the batteries but still the same problem, so next time I am there I will try your further suggestions.

Many thank as always


Joseph

 

You might want to try this cleaning procedure:
JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

 

Joseph,

Is the car on a battery tender whilst in storage? If not then this really is essential to prevent all kinds of weird electrical problems. Most members (myself included) use CTEK.

With any unusual module or sensor behaviour on an XK8, first be absolutely certain the vehicle battery is in good condition and fully charged before looking at more obscure possibilities.

Graham

 

Thanks for replies, yes the fob is now working properly (for now, that is)

 

Dear JagJoe,

Several Gentleman took time to offer suggestions as to what could be the problem with your "Clickers" (Key Fobs)! and all we get in return is: Thanks?

How about taking a minute and tell us what the problem was and how it is that they are working property (for now that is)!

In other words, Joe, what did you do to fix the darn things?

Billy Clyde in Houston

 

I apologise for not giving a detailed reply.

I changed the battery and still was having problems with the remote.

Until one of the members suggested as a long shot to check the the key slot closed by itself when the key is taken out, if it does not add some oil and check again.
This was the fault that the flat on the key slot was not closing on its own. Added oil and now once I reset the fob and applied oil the fob works perfectly.

I would like everyone to try this if they are having problems with their fobs, rather than spend time and money on more expensive possible solution.

Many thank to everyone that gave me suggestions, much appreciated.

Regards

Joseph

 

Just one caveat - use powdered graphite as your ignition switch lubricant. Do NOT use any form of liquid oil. Oil can gum up the internal switch lock workings. Powdered graphite is custom-made for this particular application. Sprinkle a small amount on your key, insert your key into the switch, and turn your key through the switch positions several times. Repeat. Then, be sure to wipe any residual powdered graphite off of your key before you pocket it....

 

Jon89

Many thanks for the advice, will do this.

As perusal, very much appreciate everyone's advice.

Cheers
Joseph

 

Just to clarify, my key fob now works perfectly.

There problem in this case was the key slot did not close properly and as suggested I used graphite powered oil. Worked perfectly, very pleased and many thanks.

Once again if any has problems with their key fob, please try this simple fix first it may save you a lot of additional costs.

Very very pleased with this site thanks again to everyone who helped.

Cheers.