Hi everyone. Last weekend nearly got stuck twice. After starting a car (1997 XK8) I would get the following error messages during the system check: bonnet is open, boot is open, passenger door is open, driver door is open, (and I think check lamp came up as well). There was no way to place it in drive, stuck in park until the messages are cleared. What seemed to clear an issue is opening and closing the bonnet, although I opened and closed both doors, trunk, etc. Don't know if it matters, but the car was left in the sun for most of the day every time it happened (twice). Any ideas?

Thank you.

 

Sounds like you need a new battery. The Jag's don't like low batteries. A bad battery will start the car but not provide enough voltage for the modules. When the voltage drops during starting the modules throw up all kind of signals.

 

If you don't drive the car often the battery could need charging. But as Vern says, it may be going bad. The parts stores will run a load test. It's a good idea to use a battery maintainer when the car is not being used. It can be connected to the bulkhead connectors under the bonnet.

 

Thanks guys. Was looking at some other posts, I think you are absolutely right. I am due for the battery replacement anyway so will proceed accordingly. Will report back if the issue persists.

Thank you for your help.

 

After that routine I was going to suggest sacrificing a chicken and throwing a double six to start but a new battery is likely to be more effective.

A battery tender will effectively pay for itself in preventing this kind of trouble and extending battery life.

Graham

 

.....I'll bear this in mind for my next Jaguar problem. In this instance I would consider a battery hen.

 

Graham

 

The battery I replaced has a Jaguar sticker on it. Is it possible that it is original 1997 battery??

 

You might be able to get a manufacture date from the top sticker, some batteries have the date stamped into the + terminal.

 

OE Jaguar batteries have the date of manufacture stamped into the top of the negative post:



This example shows 23-12 indicating manufactured in the 23rd week of 2012.

Graham