Graham,

You're talking about the accelerator. I'm talking about the brake....

It is the brake pedal switch in question, and from Gus' photos on his website, it looks nothing like any of the components contained in your diagrams above....

I'm still looking for input here from Matt and Gus. Guys, if Graham and I are missing the boat, please let us know....

By the way, I drove my wife's XK8 to dinner and back tonight, a total distance of 35 to 40 miles. The "Cruise not available" and "Check rear lights" messages alternated on the dash all the way to the restaurant and then all the way back home....

 

Jon,

It's me that's losing the plot here!

BRAKE BRAKE BRAKE

It is this same switch that gives the cruise trouble right through the MY's. Item 14, the Brake Pedal Switch:



On the plus side, if you get an issue with the kickdown, you got all the information.

Graham

 

I am sorry that my information may have confused anyone it was not my intention to do that.

Based on your description I would be replacing the brake switch. I did replace the switch the recommended way but after I did it I found what I think is a simpler procedure and that is explained in the second to the last illustration. I hope this helps.

Link to switch replacement JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

Link to the second option http://jagrepair.com/images/AutoRepa...8BrakeSw-5.jpg

 

Jon, that second link that Gus posted shows how to 'separate' the electrical component from the bracket, so you don't have to remove the switch from the firewall, just a part of it (from under the dash), making it a one-man job.

This is the original thread from 2010 where we all discovered the symptoms and diagnosed the brake pedal switch as the cause for both the 'cruise control not available' and more infrequent 'check rear brake lights' (or something like that) Remember the brake pedal switch is actually two microswitches in one part, that's why it can alone have multiple consequences of one, or both not working in the proper sequence (both closed, one open, both open, etc)

Graham, I'm not sure how you mistook the kickdown switch for the brake pedal switch?!? You feeling ok? Are you getting enough sleep...how many fingers am I holding up?

I'm guessing you 'read something' but got something else totally stuck in your mind. I've done it, more than once on here. (but I won't be linking you to any such evidence...i've buried them during my moderator days) lol

 

Matt,

I'd just been on the phone talking about the APP - put that one down to thought transference!

I can see all four fingers there.

Graham

 

Many thanks to Matt, Gus, and Graham for your additional clarification here. I have a feeling that with my broad shoulders and huge hands, I'm facing a very difficult challenge trying to replace this switch myself. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I assume this job is performed by stuffing myself into the drivers side floorboard and attempting to reach up underneath the dash to get to the switch, yes or no?

Also, once the new switch is installed and the ignition is started, do the "Cruise not available" and "Check rear lights" messages disappear from the dash with no further action required? Or do I have to reset the system somehow?

 

...don't forget upside down too. . Easiest with seat removed, however. All messages will clear like magic when replaced, no reset or manual clearing required.

 

Update:

I have the new brake pedal switch in hand ($125 plus tax at my local dealership)....

Hurricane Sandy is on the way and scheduled to brush our area, I want to watch college football this afternoon, so this circus-contortionist job will have to wait for a stretch of clear weather next week. I'm leaning towards Option Two (installing the new switch component on the old bracket without removing it). We'll see how it goes....

Thanks again to all who have contributed their expertise here. I would not even think about owning either of our Jaguars without the fantastic assistance of this forum....