I have been baptized by fire with a 2000 XK8. One month in and I have cured a "gearbox fault" with intallation of a used TCM. Now I have a "trac not avail" AND "ASC not avail", AND ABS light staying on. Have read the post about cleaning wheel sensors. Here is my question : Can anyone recommend a basic "jag kit" that i should get ? For example : get an ODBII reader and a basic XK8 shop manual ? What are the recommendations as far as brand, source etc.. I am not a mechanic and will obviously leave more complex stuff to a pro, but it seems to me I have two choices :
1.) divorce current wife and find new hot young wife who is also anexpert Jag mechanic , or,
2.) Get some basic tools and a manual to avoid the "poorhouse"

 

It could be nothing more than a low battery. The other common problem is with some bad solder connections in the the ABS module.

Other than that, the plastic secondary tensioner upgrade is a must for your list, as well as fluid changes.

Are you in the Northern VA area? I would be happy to scan your car with the AutoEngineuity scanner which should track down the ABS fault more accurately, and also go over with you the recommended repairs and upgrades at a mutually convenient time on a weekend. This will not cost you anything.

 

If you can get to whitexkr do so, he is one of the most knowledgeable people on the forums and the designer/supplier of many useful accessories.
The XK8 manual is electronic, and can be downloaded from the Sticky at the top of the forum page.
A generic code reader is a must have, but it will not read ABS or other Jaguar specific codes.
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/g...oved-**-33347/

 

Steve will take care of you. He has great modifications for your car which he can install all of them for you. He also can do your tensioners, and will check out your entire car and let you know what you need to do. His prices are very reasonable and he did a fantastic job on my xk8.

I would highly recommend, especially if you can just take a ride in the same state to see what is wrong. I came from New Jersey and was so worth it.
I had everything done and saved a boatload of money from a dealer or private mechanic.

 

Thanks! That sounds great ! I am in richmond but can definately take a nice drive up to Arlington. May be a while before I can set something up. I assume it is ok to drive it. It has been nasty and raining since I got the car back. I have been driving the german cars (a 97 e320 and an 86 300 SDL). Really bought the convertible for nicer weather. I received a number of replies recommending that I come see you.

 

Hi Jeff-
You can contact me at whitexkr@comcast.net or my website (below) to coordinate. I look forward to meeting you.
-Steve

 

Welcome to the forum. I'm sure you will get a lot of good suggestions regarding the items you asked about. But, I have just one question. Does your "present " wife read this forum?

 

I have seen this TRAC not available message a few time now, and for me turn on the ignition, allow the system check to run, when this goes off start the car, always no message, so I think this is possible a battery issue?
BTW I would go for the hot new wife, but they are rare and cost as much as an XKE, so get some good tools

 

A weak battery is one of several possible causes.