www.jec.org.uk

Looks like I'm going to have to splash out on a new battery for my 53 plated XK8. As I don't use it daily, to try to alleviate any battery drain problems, I'm thinking of replacing the original 017 90Ah, 680 amp (SAE) spec., with a 019, 95Ah 800amp CCA(EN) unit, or even a 100Ah/830amp variant. Would the extra starting power output etc. of either of these replacements, 'upset' any of the temperamental electrics? Thanks for any advice offered.

Hi there. I don't use my jag everyday and sometimes only go short distances when I do. So I had to replace my battery recently. I was getting the infamous error message 'TRAC NOT AVAILABLE' and the ABS light on start up. Also I had to reprogramme my windows regularly. My independent dealer recomended getting a battery conditioner to look after my new battery. Since I've had the new battery I have done a number of short journeys and it didn't take long for the 'TRAC NOT AVAILABLE' message to return but since I've been using the CTEK XS3600 conditioner I've had no more errors and the windows haven't needed reprogramming. Perhaps you could try a battery conditioner before you go for a new battery.
good luck
Mick

Thanks for your responses. Unfortunately, I don't have access to mains electricity in my garage, so the 'conditioner/trickle charge' option is out. All I really want to know is, would a replacement battery of higher spec. than the original Jaguar fitment, do the vehicle's electrics any harm? Thanks.

To respond to your specific query, a battery with a greater capacity than the Jaguar original shouldn't do any harm to the car's electrics although it would be good to diagnose the precise reason for the car's troubles before going down that route. Your present battery could be tested (a drop test) as Bleasie suggests. The quiescent battery drain on XK8s is quite small provided the keys are not in the ignition whilst the car is locked. Again, the rate of drain can be tested to ensure all is as Jaguar intended. Mike.

Go easy and take another pill. Mike.

Hi guys
I read somewhere that if you leave your car-adapted phone charger plugged in the cigar lighter while not actually in use, it still drains the battery. Best not leave anything plugged in while your cat is in bed.
Have you checked the boot light is going out when you shut the boot? Get someone to volunteer to get shut in for a bit. (Promise to let them out!)
Just a hopefully helpful wee tip. I don't intend to be 'teaching Granma to suck eggs'.
Ta

Thanks for all your replies (left 'er indoors in the boot for 24 hours - she complained it was too dark, so boot light not the problem!). On a different note - Mike, you may remember earlier in the year, I had a problem with 'J-gate and sport button illumination'. Just for your info, it was eventually diagnosed as a faulty 'linear module' on the selector set-up. Replacement module - £116 + the tax. Total job cost around £300 with independent.

Interesting comment about the gear selector illumination. It's not the first time a member has reported problems with it. Perhaps they are vulnerable to damage from ham fisted types working in the area. It's not the sort of component likely to fail prematurely (if there is such a thing on a motor car!). Mike.