I am in the UK and have a 2007 XKR, which I have owned for around 2.5 years. 35k miles on the clock.

I noticed a slight rattle on starting a few months after buying the car, and when it was up for its next service I raised this. Got no real answer and foolishly didnt press the point.

Next time it was serviced the rattle was a bit worse, and I was told that it could be a VVT problem but that it was ok to drive, although would have to be sorted at some point in the future.

The rattle has got a lot worse recently and im now told that this is a really serious issue. The garage has told me that they dont repair engines so it would need a new one outright. (Something like £8k fitted list price).

They are currently speaking to the Jaguar Factory to see what the options are. They may chose to do something, it would seem unreasonable for a fully dealer serviced engine with 35k miles on the clock to die.

However if they do not I was wondering what the situation is with the Garage that sold me it - im aware there is "fit for purpose" legislation for all consumer purchases.

Any similar war stories or input welcome.

Cheers,

K.

 

Since you're in the UK, I suggest you re-post this matter on the UK forum: XK, XKR Alloy Bodied (2006 on)

I just checked and it's not there.

 

Many thanks - have posted there.

 

Granted, this was on a X308, but one option is to remove the VVT entirely. Worked well for a UK member here who saw a power increase.

 

I am battling a similar problem with a 2005 XK8 with 45K miles (4.2L engine). I have a nasty timing chain noise that the dealer stated was probably the VVT(s). Dealer repair cost was prohibitive so I started replacing possible problem parts - Pri & Sec tensioners, timing chains, VVT solenoids, and chain guides. Lots of work - I have held off replacing the VVT units since they cost ~ $400 (USD) each. I am going to replace these next and I hope this fixes the problem.

 

And did it?

I am currently having the same problem; i.e. rattle on cold start up and a code 1396 on the diagnostic reader.The dealer said the VVT #2 needs to be replaced. Electrical continuity is OK and a change to 10/W30 from 5/30 did nothing to stop the 1396 from lighting up.

The dealer ran some tests and then quoted over $3200 to replace the VVT 2 so I am going to discuss it with my independent Jag mechanic.

I be interested know if you fixed the problem.

 

Is it the VVT solenoid that needs replacing or do they have to pull the cam.

 

As far as I can see, the VVT actuator is attached to but separate from the inlet cam, so you replace the actuator without disturbing the cam. The solenoid is separate from the actuator, and I'm assuming what they're talking about is replacing the actuator - though I guess they may do both, since it's a lot of work to get to the damn things and you wouldn't want to do it twice.

P.S. though the OP was talking about a 2007 X150, the more-recent posts above are about a 2005 X100. Same engine, but there may be differences (e.g. that diag code doesn't exist in my workshop manual)

 

Welcome to the forum Tekk0000,

The days of authorised Jaguar Dealers rebuilding engines seem to be long gone and an exchange 4.2 N/A engine is approximately £5.5K + fitting + VAT.

It is best to wait for the response from Jaguar. Although they have no remaining warranty or liability on a seven year old unit, you may be offered a percentage off an exchange engine or a repair at an alternative Jaguar facility.

A more economical solution is likely to be an independent Jaguar specialist who will certainly do a top end rebuild provided the rattle is still at the wear stage and has not progressed to destruction.

When you get a minute, please follow this link New Member Area - Intro a MUST - Jaguar Forums - Jaguar Enthusiasts Forum to the New Member Area - Intro a MUST forum and post some info about yourself and your vehicle for all members to see. In return you'll get a proper welcome and some useful advice about posting to the forum.

Graham