1999 Jaguar XJR Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 1999 Jaguar XJR: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 1999 Jaguar XJR has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 1999 Jaguar XJR has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 1999 Jaguar XJR?

When faced with a check engine light on your 1999 Jaguar XJR, the first step is to read the error codes using an OBD II scan tool. This tool connects to your vehicle's computer system and retrieves diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can indicate the specific issue at hand. Once you have the codes, it's essential to check for common causes, such as a loose gas cap or problems within the emission or ignition systems. These issues are often straightforward to address and can save you time and money. Next, inspect the vehicle's sensors; cleaning them with a contact spray and testing their functionality with a voltmeter can help ensure they are operating correctly. If you believe the issue has been resolved, you can reset the check engine light by following the instructions in your owner's manual. By systematically approaching the problem, starting with the simplest solutions, you can effectively diagnose and potentially resolve the issue without needing professional assistance.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 1999 Jaguar XJR?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 1999 Jaguar XJR, it often indicates underlying issues that require attention. One of the most frequent culprits is the ignition cylinder, which can cause the engine to run irregularly, leading to performance issues. Additionally, problems with the exhaust gas oxygen sensor, also known as the Lambda probe, can result in misfires during acceleration or when driving at low speeds, further complicating engine performance. It's essential to recognize that the vehicle's onboard computer system is designed to detect faults, and any warning it provides should not be overlooked. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe complications down the line, making it crucial for DIY enthusiasts to stay vigilant and proactive in diagnosing and resolving the causes of the check engine light.

What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 1999 Jaguar XJR?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 1999 Jaguar XJR, it is essential to act swiftly to avoid potential damage and ensure your safety on the road. Ignoring this warning can lead to more severe mechanical issues, which may result in costly repairs or even compromise your vehicle's reliability. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose cap can trigger the light, especially after refueling. If the light persists, using an OBD II scan tool can help you diagnose the specific problem by retrieving error codes. This step is crucial, as it allows you to understand the underlying issue that needs attention. If you're not comfortable diagnosing the problem yourself, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable, as they can provide a thorough inspection and necessary repairs. Additionally, if you decide to reset the light yourself, remember that this should only be a temporary solution; the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent further complications. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only protect your vehicle from potential damage but also ensure a safer driving experience.

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1999 Jaguar XJR Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions