I just was given a 1997 Jaguar XK8 that has no keys? The battery of course is dead so I can't get the trunk open. I tried hooking a battery to the lead under the hood and pressing the trunk button but no luck. Must I have to have the keys in order to open the trunk to make this happen or do I maybe have a trunk release button problem.

 

if the car was set to valet mode, then the button will not release and you need the primary key

 

Get the VIN and call a Jaguar dealer to get 2 (at least) keys cut. Open the boot lid and do what ever you need to do.

bob

 

Welcome to the forum Gad,

With NO keys, getting into the luggage compartment has to be priority number 2. First follow Bob's advice about sourcing replacement keys to avoid breaking anything.

Please follow this link New Member Area - Intro a MUST - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum to the New Member Area - Intro a MUST forum and post some information about yourself and your vehicle for all members to see. In return you'll get a proper welcome and some useful advice about posting to the forum.

Graham

 

Gad, sounds like you found the battery terminal under the hood. As I recall it is fused with something like a 50 amp fuse. So don't try to start the engine through that terminal. But you could charge her with it.

John

 

these keys will not be cheap, personal experience. you will also not be able to start the car unless someone with a dealer access style computer can pair them to it. perhaps it would be easier to request access to the original owner's personal effects to search. worse yet is that the dealer is supposed to only sell keys to someone who can produce a registration. you might have to title the car to obtain the keys.

 

The car listed is a 1997 and North American Jaguars did not use a KTM until 1998.

bob

 

Which trunk button? The one above the left knee or the button on the trunk lid itself?

The back seat cushion and back come out pretty easily. Once they are off, you might be able to reach in the trunk and pull the emergency release handle (not positive about this, but it is not that much work).

Once you get past this, you will need to get a key made. The exact type you need is TIBBE 8-Cut. The easy way is to reach out to a dealer and try and get the code, based on the VIN. Some proof of ownership might be required. Once you have the code (8 numbers between 1 and 3), you will have to have the actual key made. Some businesses out there can do it for a nominal fee.

There is a hack way to get the code, I believe, but it is not for everyone: the trunk key cylinder can be disassembled and the code inferred from the exact positions of the relevant parts.

Last, you will likely want a pair of key fobs. You can search on eBay for the exact type, but keep in mind the fobs for the earlier car are incompatible with the later (2000+) car, and are more pricey ($60?). A random fob can easily be paired up with the car.

Best of luck, keep us posted.

 

The fuel tank COMPLETELY blocks any attempt at getting into the boot from the passenger compartment.

The boot lid on the early cars has NO external release button.

bob

 

HAD, thought of you today when I pulled I to my driveway, turned off car, removed keys and pressed trunk release button. NOTHING - then i remembered the door must be open for the button to work. Opened the drivers door to get out, pressed button and she opened right up.

One in a million chance this'll help you, but easy enough to share.

John

 

Interesting, my 1998 XK8 will open the trunk without the door being open.

 

Kent, so will mine if ignition on, speed zero. I don't know if key in or key out makes a difference in mine. Oh well no big deal, just thought you might be interested.

Thanks for your note.

John