As a new XJ8 (2007) owner, I want keep up with all maintenance requirements. In perusing thru my owners manual, I cannot find a reference, nor can I physically locate my automatic transmission level dipstick. Any tips on where to look?

 

Sorry to say... there is no dipstick. The level can only be checked with the car level, running, with the transmission between (off the top of my head) 30 C and 50 C. Basically you fill up the transmission until fluid starts to drip out of the fill hole, and then close it up (all before trans temp goes above 50 C).

Needless to say.... checking is a really frustrating procedure and I have a small burn scar from it.

Short of checking the level, an easier thing you can do is inspect your ATF cooler pipes under the front part of the car. You'll probably need to have the front raised on jack stands or ramps for this. Where these cars tend to loose ATF is from the hose crimps on the flexible part of the lines up front near the radiator. If your lines are dry, then check your ATF pan under the transmission. If that's dry, you're probably ok level wise.

I have owned 2 Jaguars, and both needed to have the ATF cooler lines replaced. Sadly it's a common leak point.