Most common 1998 Jaguar XJ problems
Share of the 11 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Jaguar XJ complaints by model year
Best XJ years: 2010, 2017, 2008. Years to avoid: 2005, 2006. Compare all years →
1998 Jaguar XJ recalls (1)
Vehicle speed control
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The cable adjuster bracket nut on the outer sleeve of the throttle cable can become displaced fromthe cable abutment bracket on the engine.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect these vehicles and modify the throttle cable system.
What 1998 Jaguar XJ owners say
Engine & cooling
Not sure exactly what the problem is. I have had the complete fuel system and water pump replaced. There appears to be a defect in the placement of where the gas cap is located on the vehicle (on top near the trunk) rather than on the side. When there is a hard rain, water leaks into the gas tank; dirt and debris gather in the opening for the gas tank and must be frequently cleaned out. The vehicle will hesitate while driving and then will refuse to start again. In reading complaints from other owners about the plastic parts used in the engine, perhaps this is my problem. As far back as the complaints go about the unreliability of the vehicle, there should have been a recall to determine why the car will just stop running for no apparent reason.
1998 Jaguar XJ engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.0L 8-cyl | 5-speed automatic | RWD | 16 / 22 / 18 |
EPA ratings. Class: Compact car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1998 Jaguar XJ a good car?
Based on 11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1998 XJ rates average: 1.3× as many complaints as a typical year of the XJ at the same age. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1998 Jaguar XJ?
The engine & cooling — 5 complaints, 45% of all complaints for this model year, most often about engine › gasoline. Next are the lights (2) and transmission & drivetrain (2).
How many recalls does the 1998 Jaguar XJ have?
There is 1 recall for the 1998 Jaguar XJ, the most recent from February 12, 1998 (vehicle speed control). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Jaguar XJ?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2010, 2017 and 2008. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2005 and 2006. See the full Jaguar XJ years comparison.
At what mileage do 1998 Jaguar XJ problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 68,000 miles; 50% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.