The check engine light on my 1996 XJ6 with 36k miles on it came on. There was no indication of any drivabilty problems. The car ran fine. So I took it to the Jag dealer. He said I had mis-firing on coil # 4. I had them replace it to the tune of almost $400. They said don't be surprised if the others start failing. Well guess what. The check engine light came back on one day later. It's going back in this week. Is there a problem with coils failing on this model?? I didn't detect any problem driving the car. Has anyone else experienced " massive coil failure" ??? I'm wondering if my dealed knows what they are doing.

Greg XJR-S

Submitted by jam@ispwest.com on Wed, 08/24/2005 - 07:18

I'm sticking my nose here but I'm not familiar with the 1996 models; in my 1984 model, the check engine light comes on as an Emissions Service reminder every 36k miles, specifically to remind me to replace the Oxygen Sensor. Your car did what it was supposed to do when it was supposed to do it, i.e., remind you of SOMETHING, (check your Owner's Manual). If it was running fine, all it needed was a reset of the check engine light counter which can be done manually by pushing the check engine light counter's button to zero as in my car, or by disconnecting the battery for 10-20 minutes so that the computer "forgets" all failure Codes as in newer cars. But again, I didn't know the 1996 had multiple coils! Are you sure you are talking about Coils?? -Coils either work or they don't-. For example, I have a 1965 Jaguar with the original Coil dated 3/64, and it is still working for heaven's sake. You need a more qualified Second Opinion, the dealer should know but I have my doubts. try posting your question at the Jag Board, http://www.thejagboard.com there are qualified technicians there who will help you. And everytime you take your car to the dealer or any other place for service, ask that any replaced PARTS be returned to you, and don't let them charge you any "Disposal Fees". If they refuse for whatever reason, take it elsewhere.