Weird Electrical Problem... (98 XK8)
Weird Electrical Problem... (98 XK8)
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Discussion

Big Giant Head

Original Poster:

82 posts

238 months

Sunday 4th January 2009
quotequote all
Hi all,

coming home yesterday I noticed I couldn't flash other cars (tried to let a guy out at a junction),
then noticed the headlights which are always on "Auto" weren't on. Then noticed that the indicators
wouldn't work - eeek...

Had a look today and noticed that the trip computer / milage thingy won't work either.
All these systems run through the left stalk on the steering column. So my question is,
is this likely to be a case of a new control module, new stalk or just a fuse somewhere ?

Can't get much help from the driver's handbook so this is my next port of call
before heading down (in daylight) to the dealership.

Car is a '98 XK8 coupe.

Best wishes
Tony

melhook

199 posts

237 months

Monday 5th January 2009
quotequote all
More often than not, the wires on the stalk break, if you are competent it isnt a bad job to remove the stalk, and repair, sometimes you can repair in situ, in worst cases a new stalk will be required. If I remember correctly you can replace this without taking off the steering wheel/ airbag. Hope this helps.

Jaguar steve

9,232 posts

232 months

Tuesday 6th January 2009
quotequote all
Service history shows my XJ had a similar electricial failure when it was quite new. I don't know exactly what went wrong but the reported symptoms were the same as yours. It had a new stalk fitted and a dipped headlamp relay at the same time.

Possible the relay failed and burnt out the contacts on the stalk?