XK8 Alarm option
 

Hello I recently imported from Japan a 1996 XK8 that I would like to enable (if possible) the factory alarm system. Part of it is I want to be able to use the factory keyfobs as opposed to installing an aftermarket system with different fobs and I hate the thought of doing this if I already have most of that functionaly available in the car. Sorry I have a few questions.

Other than having central locking it appears not to set any alarm when locked by the remotes. I can open the boot when it's locked without any alarm activation. It has a passive type sounder fitted but it has ever chirped or flashed the lights. I also don't think it has the immobiliser for the ignition key fitted but does have the glass break sensor installed.

I had a Jaguar specialist (non dealer) look at it and their diagnostic computer stated the alarm module was not fitted. My understanding was the locking/security module has this feature or does this need to be replaced?

What would it take in terms of parts to fit/enable the factory system or is this something only a factory dealer could set up with what I have?

Any advice apprecaited thanks.

Does it lock/unlock with the fobs?

All XK8/R are fitted with security modules and key transponder modules.

There 2 types of sounder: Passive and intelligent

These modules can only be re-programmed using a Jaguar WDS

Thanks for that. Yes the remotes lock and unlock the car and also open the boot. Like you I thought the alarm option was a standard feature but now wonder if the Japanese spec cars may have been a bit different. (I saw while Googling another person who has the same issue also with a Japanese version 96 XK8) When I do lock it via remotes I don't get the flashing led by the shift lever going. My factory radio also doesn't need a code to re-enable it after the battery is disconnected as well.

I think I may have to visit a factory dealer to find out for sure on what my car has fitted and hopefully get it enabled. Thanks again.

update
 

I took the car to the local Jaguar dealer yesterday and and they hooked it up to their service computer and confirmed my car did not have the required parts for an alarm. I also asked them if they could then just enable the lights and chirp confirmation for the central locking since mine did not. They said they did set up those options and they now showed as enabled but the car would still not chirp/flash on cental remote locking.

Lucky me they said it is the first time they have encountered this sort issue and it may be related to the cars UD block (??) which they cannot modify. Apparently this code controls what the car can and cannot do at production. Their thoughts were because of it being a Japanese version it had been tided down at production and they did not think even if I did replace the SLM with one from an alarm equipped car that it would work. It might show as installed but still not function.

Any thoughts on this, has anyone had success at doing what I am trying to do as my prference is still the factory system as opposed to an aftermarket alarm system. Thanks

I don't know about your alarm, but I've noticed on mine that if the Battery Backed Sounder option was enabled, my car won't chirp when locked by the remote (even with those options enabled). Disabling the battery backed sounder fixed it.

The 1997 XK8 for the US market does not have a KTM. The key transponders were introduced for the 1998 MY. I don't know about other markets.

bob gauff

My 97 has a transponder. It doesn't chirp but the lights flash.

Same as mine.

I was referring to the KEY TRANSPONDERS AND EXCITER RING for the 1997 XK8. The KTM was not used in the US market until 1998.

I was not referring to the KEYFOB TRANSMITTER for locking/unlocking etc.

They are completely different features.

bob gauff

Thanks for that advice on your experiences. It now gives me a direction to explore with my car that I never would have considered myself. These forums are great!

With your car to disable the battery backed sounder does it involve the dealer reprogramming or is it just pulling a fuse?

Having some understanding of electronic programming I would love to have a play myself with a WDS/IDS system as I am sure with some experimentation a better understanding and hopefully a result could happen. In my case I believe its just software that is stopping some things from working and like all things the trick is just finding what it is!

I hate having to rely on someone else who really does not have a vested interest in looking too deep to solve a strange/difficult problem.
My local dealer wasn't too keen on letting me stay with the car during that programming process, which was a shame as I think it would have been very insightful and informative given the chance.

It's a dealer option. I have a WDS, so I disabled it myself. Truth be told, I first enabled myself as well to see what would happen, and that's when I found out the unintended consequences of interfering with the locking chirps. Makes sense, since I have a US model and the XK 2003 electrical guide says the active sounder is ROW only.


They are avail on eBay or craigslist. 50 - 400 depending on shape, Ford v Jaguar software, and accessories. Cables are scarce (or expensive), power supplies on the docking stations are notoriously bad at this point, and internal batteries usually need to be replaced. But once you get past all the issues, it's a fantastic tool to have in your garage. I've saved myself the cost of the my unit (which I lucked out and got crazy cheap) in key programming alone. My time invested is another story, but tinkering with electronics and computer equipment is more of a hobby, so it's been a fun exercise.

Hi Ron,
If you are in Auckland, a possibility for you may be to talk to Ken Stout Motors on North Shore. They I beleive have WDS available and may be more approachable than Archibald & Shorter service dept.
I have not personally used their services as yet, but did speak to their service manager a couple of times when I was having alarm issues. They certainly seem to be very approachable.
May be worth a try if you are in Auckland or nearby.
Regards, Phil

New battery alarm issue
 

Okay so I'm restoring my 2nd jag and haven't ran into this issue before I'm I'm the millitary and the battery died while I was training so I bought a new one when I got back and now the ala won't turn off so I can start the car, my remote doesn't work needs a new battery and the keys do work to open close the doors boot. Need help sick of seeing it sit in the lot.