Skip to content
MOTRS

E-Type

1961-1975 / Coupe / Roadster / 2+2 / United Kingdom

All E-Type problems All workshop issues
Minor Engine

V12 head gasket failure

Symptoms

Coolant loss with no external leak, white smoke from one bank of exhaust, mayonnaise under the oil filler cap, overheating.

Cause

The V12's head gaskets weep over time, especially if the engine has been overheated at any point. The long block with its two heads creates significant thermal cycling stress.

Fix

Both heads need to come off (you'd be mad to do just one).

Heads get pressure-tested, skimmed if warped, and new gaskets fitted.

This is a major job, 30-40 hours of labour plus parts.

Budget $8,000-15,000 AUD at a specialist.

Cost mentioned in fix
Budget $8,000-15,000

Know something we don't?

Owned a Jaguar E-Type? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update
// More E-Type problems

Other known issues

Common Engine

XK engine oil leaks

Oil weeps from every gasket and seal, cam covers, timing cover, rear main seal, sump gasket. Most E-Types leave marks wherever they park.
Common Engine

Cooling system inadequacy (six-cylinder)

Engine runs hot, especially in traffic or on warm days. Temperature gauge climbs past the middle mark, car starts to smell hot, coolant may boil over.
Minor Engine

V12 overheating (Series 3)

The same as above, but worse. The V12 generates substantially more heat and the cooling system, despite being larger than the six-cylinder setup, is still barely adequate.
Common Engine

SU carburettor synchronisation issues

Rough idle, flat spots during acceleration, poor fuel economy, backfiring. The car runs badly and smells of petrol.
Common Engine

Timing chain stretch and tensioner wear

Rattling from the front of the engine on startup that may or may not settle when warm. In severe cases, the chain can jump a tooth, causing valve timing issues or valve-to-piston contact.
Minor Bodywork and Rust

Structural floor pan corrosion

Floor pans rot through, usually starting from the inside where moisture sits under the carpet and sound deadening. The car loses rigidity, doors stop closing properly, scuttle shake increases, the windscreen cracks.
View all 24 E-Type problems