low trans fluid can definitely cause the problems u described with the transmission but the "no start" could be something different...does the car spin over when u try to start it?

Its pretty hard to fill that trans with fluid.... there is a plug that has to be removed in the side of the trans...it has to be cold or near cold to fill it properly

 

BHD,

Welcome, nice to see another tech make an appearance.

Vichet, your car needs to be safely raised and supported in a level position to check your transmission fluid, as it must be topped up with the engine running. The temperature is not a concern, so long as you check and top up the fluid with the engine running for no longer than ten minutes...I did the procedure once with WDS monitoring the temperature, and it really isn't worth worrying about unless you fall asleep under the car.

The plug that BHD mentioned is in the right rear corner of the transmission main case, just above the top of the pan. It's a round plug with an 8mm (5/16") hex, so you need an allen wrench or socket to remove it.

Start the engine, brake applied, 5 seconds in drive, five seconds in reverse, back to park and check the level. Repeat as necessary until you've pumped enough fluid in that it runs back out (engine still running), let it run out until it's just a heavy drip, plug it.

Don't use anything other than the Jaguar specified Esso fluid. I'll be surprised if you have lost alot, there are not common points that cause major leaks on these transmissions unless you have had a rare failure in one of the transmission cooler hoses. There are other external factors which can cause incorrect gear selection, and having the engine management system scanned for fault codes will provide valuable information. Odds are that the problems are internal, and they will not be minor.

 

The engine will start and run regardless of the condition of the transmission, and there is no point in trying to fill a transmission on a car that won't start.

You need test a few things to find out why the car won't start. You don't have a mechanic who knows a thing about Jaguars close to you?

 

Test for fuel pressure.

If present, remove spark plugs and prime cylinders with four stokes per cylinder from a pump oil can, use 5W30. Refit plugs and crank engine until it starts. If it takes longer then 15 seconds or so, continue cranking with the accelerator held to the floor. If you have cranked it for one minute and it still hasn't started, pause to let the starter cool down for a couple of minutes and try it again, accelerator down. The starters are tough, they can take the abuse.