Last Saturday I left the hood up on my '02 XK8 to discourage mice from building nests on top of the engine. Next morning the car would not start, the
battery was drained, although it was a new battery (June) and has started right
up every time prior to this. I could find no light in the engine compartment, nor
any mention of one in the owner's manuals. Does anyone have a clue as to
what could have caused this problem? Is there a sensor that could have
caused it? It's really puzzling me, so any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

 

I often open the hood on my 97 to cool the plastic parts more quickly, and it's sometimes several days before it's closed again.

Never had a problem with the battery, and I even checked once with an ammeter in line and didn't see a higher current.

But maybe the 02 is different.

 

The only thing I can think the hood open will indicate is when the key is turned on and the mil will indicate hood open but only then. I've had my hood set into service mode for multi days with battery charged and no ill affects.

 

If your neighborhood is as bad as mine maybe the mice stole your battery...


Dave

 

TSB section has Jaguar issued info. (no body looks??)
Issued over a decade ago this might help track down your problem.

bob gauff

 

Thank you so much to all for your input so far -- I've learned a lot.
Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Thanks for the info. It's really easy to accidentally bump the windshield wiper stalk
when turning on or off the car -- it happens all the time!

 

I would check the sleep mode and also the gate on the key when the key is removed. I have often left my trunk and hood open many a time in the garage with no ill results.

Gus
www.jagrepair.com

 

Thanks, Gus,
How do I check the sleep mode? I've read here about checking the key gate (flap).
I appreciate your help.

 

I am short on time but see if this helps

Link.http://www.jagrepair.com/images/AutoRepairPhotos/Current%20Testing.pdf

Gus
www.jagrepair.com