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MOTRS

XJ6 (Series I-III)

1968-1992 / Sedan / United Kingdom

All XJ6 (Series I-III) problems All workshop issues
Minor Engine

2.8-litre engine problems

Symptoms

Excessive vibration, bearing failure, overheating, poor performance.

Cause

The 2.8 was a de-stroked version of the 4.2 with altered crankshaft and reduced capacity. The shorter stroke created balance issues and increased stress on the bottom end. The engine is also underpowered for the heavy XJ body, leading to over-revving and premature wear.

Fix

Swap to a 4.2.

Seriously.

The 2.8 is a fundamentally compromised engine that's not worth rebuilding when 4.2 units are plentiful.

A 4.2 swap requires a compatible bell housing and some wiring changes but is well-documented.

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Other known issues

Common Engine

XK engine oil leaks

Oil weeps from cam covers, timing chain cover, sump gasket, and rear main seal. The engine bay is perpetually oily. Oil drips on the exhaust and creates smoke.
Common Engine

Cooling system inadequacy

Engine runs hot, particularly in traffic or on warm days. Temperature gauge climbs, coolant may boil over, heater blows hot when it shouldn't.
Common Engine

SU carburettor problems (Series 1)

Rough idle, flat spots, hesitation, black smoke, fuel smell, poor starting.
Common Engine

Fuel injection issues (Series 2 and 3)

Hard starting, rough idle, hesitation, stalling, poor economy.
Minor Engine

Head gasket failure

Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating, mayonnaise under the oil filler cap.
Minor Bodywork and Rust

Sill corrosion (structural)

Outer sills bubble and perforate. Inner sills rot silently behind trim. The car's rigidity decreases, doors sag, gaps become uneven, and the body flexes over bumps.
View all 28 XJ6 (Series I-III) problems