Hi All,
This is my first post since joining the forum. I recently purchased a 2000 XK8 convertible. I was made aware of a few issues, and have found out a few more. My major issue before putting the car on the road is the Instrument Cluster. All Warning lights are on, Fuel Level is either Full or Empty. My question is this: will a Cluster from 2001-2002 work with the 2000? I know the newer models have the 4.2 liter motor and not the 4.0. Also some are listed as Vanden Plas. Is this something different? From a post I was reading there was a company (Module Master) that repaired these, but they no longer do.

Much thanks,

Eric "erjent" Jordan

 

Hi Eric,

Welcome to the Jaguar Forums! It's great to have you with us.

You can look up part numbers for the Instrument Pack based on the VIN range to compare with the one in your vehicle at parts.jaguarlandroverclassic.com .

Have you had the vehicle scanned by a diagnostic system capable of reading not only the Powertrain (P-prefix) codes, but also the Network (U-), Body (B-) and Chassis (C-) codes? It would be a shame to go to the trouble of replacing the instrument cluster only to find that the warning lights are due to faults elsewhere.

You could also first try disconnecting and reconnecting the two electrical connectors for the cluster - they're easy to access at the front lower edge of the cluster behind the trim pieces. Disconnect the battery before disturbing the cluster connectors.

Cheers,

Don

 

Much thanks Don. I'll check it out!

erjent

 

Before jumping to conclusions, swapping parts, spending a small fortune and then finding it is worse instead of better...

make sure the battery is is in good shape and fully charged. If there's any doubt about its integrity, invest in a new one or at least beg, borrow, steal a relatively new battery for testing. The original battery was so LARGE, I drop in virtually any of my newer batteries in. Better to test with a small, high quality battery than a large weak one. I often stick a charger on the battery before firing up for maximum voltage when troubleshooting.

Also, become familiar with a "hard reset" with the battery cables.

 

Have you looked at this TSB for your car? There was a known fault on the instrument clusters for that model year:-

http://jagrepair.com/images/TSB/XJ/4...%20failure.pdf

Its worth checking before spending money on replacement parts.

 

I bought the car from a friend (3 weeks ago) and immediately bought a new battery.

 

99 and up 308 is the same

 

A quick follow up. I fully charged the new battery, removed the instrument cluster, and removed the back plate. The back plate had the M in the lower right hand corner. Part # LJD 4300 GC. Upon inspecting the circuit board, I noticed a slight variation from the diagram dibbit sent to me. No solder issue was noted. I tested with a meter and got a 1100 ohm reading. I looked at several other solder joints that were suspect, and cleaned them up. Reassembled the cluster, and placed in the Jag. I now have the Check engine, brake, red, and amber lights on, and the Fuel Level either goes way past Full or is Totally Empty. I do have another coming next week, so I'll keep my fingers crossed.

Thanks for the advice,

Eric "erjent" Jordan
Punta Gorda, Florida

 

an Instrument Cluster for the 2000 (4.0 liter) with the part # LJD4300HC. Does anyone know where I can find one?

 

The VCATS suffix is important so get the same number. The software is the VCATS and will be different for things like COUPE or CONVERTIBLE.
The AJ27 should all be the same so a 2000 to 2002 with the same VCATS will work. (the 1997 to 1999 will not work)

The mileage WILL follow the INSTPK so consider that.
A SuperCharged INSTPK will not work for a NA car.

 

Where can I find the VCATS suffix? I had to replace the radiator yesterday (to the tune of $972 USD). I need my instruments, so that my J-gate will shift from park without using a rod to prompt it.

If you would kindly elucidate, I could buy a used Instrument Cluster and have Ian running in a normal capacity.

Thanks in advance.

 

Control Module and VCATS label locations.
The suffix is on the original car label and is NOT printed on the module case.
JEPC advises to check the VCATS label or use WDS/IDS to interrogate the module for the software suffix.

When I remove a module from one of my cars or find it in a salvage car, I find the VCATS label and copy the suffix to the module with a 'sharpie' or paint stick.
All my modules have the info written to ensure compatibility.

EVERYONE should take a photo of the label in the boot of their car for reference.

 

I went to an Auto Salvage Parts online store, provided them with my VIN and the VCATS number (provided by Consolidated Auto Works, Portland, OR). With this information, they looked up the proper Instrument Cluster and it is finally on its way.

I hope that it works.