2002 Jaguar XJ8 Restricted Performance/ TC not available

JAMIEGINGERBATER

MEMBER
2002 JAGUAR XJ8
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
87,000 MILES

Hi
I've just purchased an 02 XJ8 sport. When I turn the ignition on a message flashes saying that TC is not available, it then goes. Also, every so often a message will flash up (whilst driving) saying Restricted Performance. It comes and goes, sometimes staying off for 100's of miles and at other times its more frequent. When it does become more frequent the engine management light illuminates. Performance doesnt seem to be an issue and the engine isnt missing a beat?
I've got no problem taking it to a garage for a sensor replacement but in my experience it can be hit and miss finding a garage that will diagnose correctly first time, and I'll end up paying for parts that arent required until they stumble accross the fault.
I am an industrial fitter/electrician so if there are any common faults that could be causing this like dirty sensors, bad connections etc I'd rather take a look myself first.
Any ideas?
Thanks
Jamie

2 Replies

DAVE H

MECHANIC
13,383 POSTS

Have the vehicle plugged into a diagnostic computer. It could need a PCM reflash/upgrade

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Wednesday, February 24th, 2010 AT 6:14 PM

JAMIEGINGERBATER

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Thanks for that, I took it to a local garage this week but he wasn't able to get a detailed diagnosis using his software. He said he was reading an under temp message and a knock sensor fault. He didnt charge me anything for re-setting the messages, and told me to try it out. Unfortunately the car's exactly the same, are there any common problems relating to these messages?
Thanks for the great response so far