I bought my 2000 XK8 convertible about a year ago, every once in a while, when I started the car, the windshield wipers would turn on. I thought perhaps I was touching the lever while turning the key and didn't think much about it. However, lately, when I'm driving, the wipers turn themselves on. Anyone else experience this, or have a clue what the issue may be?
Thanks

 

Do you have that automatic rain sensor FEATURE?

 

+1

I would guess you have this "feature" and it is on. It can produce some erratic behavior.

 

I don't know! To be honest, I never heard of it. How would I find out if I do?
Thanks

 

Have you tried reading the manual?

If you don't have one you can download one here https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...-2003-a-67827/

 

Look at the wiper stalk.



If it has the word AUTO and the rotary collar is set to it, then you have rain sensing wipers and they are set to operate.

Graham

 

On my SType-R when my battery drained it would send certain functions into ghost mode. Like my wipers, nav, keyless entry, alarm would come on etc.

Just a suggestion...

 

I second the possibility of a low battery. In my 05 with the rain sensing wipers, they started to behave erratically when my battery got low -along with the windows and other electronics (tilt/telescope on steering wheel and keyless entry issues too). So, I'd look at the battery if it hasn't been changed in awhile. Might be a simple fix.

 

I suspect you're right. The car has been sitting for a few months and needed a jump to start. Thanks

 

Didn't come with a manual. Does now! Thanks for the link

 

This is quite a common fault, that can require a motor replacement. When mine started doing it often only disconnecting the battery would stop them.

 

To me, this just sounds like the adhesive disc that holds the rain sensor to the windshield needing replacement. There are posts on the forum about it. I replaced mine and all is fine now.

 

I should mention, the car sat for a couple of months. When I attempted to start it, the battery was dead. I charged it, started it, and and now notice my passenger seat clicks when I try and move it forwards or back, the steering wheel doesn't collapse and the windows didn't go up or down when I opened the door (I've since reset them). Is there some sort of "reboot" procedure I need to perform?
Thanks again

 

I would have the battery checked, especially since it went dead. Under 12.4v means you need a new battery. It may have been charged, but a slight drop in output makes things go crazy quickly.

If long periods of inactivity is normal, better save your nickels for a trickle charger setup. Better still, drive it!

 

All of these symptoms seem to confirm what I suggest earlier.. I can't think of any other common issue that would cause all of the electrical gremlins to come out (especially if you aren't getting any codes).. so +1 on checking out the battery as the place to start.

 

I'm going to replace the battery this week. I've read Sears and Interstate make one specifically for the XK8. Also, I've been doing some reading about radio codes, a battery vent, waiting 20 seconds with key on before starting, resetting windows etc. Anyone have any definitive replacement procedures (or a link) for a 2000 XK8?
Thanks again