Jaguar OBD 2 Trouble Codes

What Is Jaguar OBD-II?

The OBD2 stands for On-Board Diagnostic System, the standard electronic monitoring device that keeps track of all vehicle functions. The OBD consists of a network of sensors in engine and drive train components as well as in the car's electrical system that oversee every process, mechanical and electrical. The purpose of such a system is to react if something is wrong and notify the driver immediately. However, the system also stores all the fault codes as a log, which is extremely valuable for Jaguar shops mechanics to have a direct insight into the vehicle's condition. So, let’s see what Jaguar OBD fault codes mean, how to read them and what to do about it.

Why Use The OBD?

The OBD system is extremely useful regardless of the type of vehicle because it consists of a network of sensors throughout the car, all linked with the ECU. If and when something is wrong, the system will immediately recognize it, generate a fault code and report it to the driver either through a light on the dashboard or store it in computer memory. So, when the vehicle is attached to the OBD reading tool, it will display all the fault codes in letter/number format, which will then be translated and connected to a specific issue. 

The value of the OBD system is enormous since it helps note any potential faults in real-time, keep an eye on all systems and prevent any significant breakdowns which might occur. For example, you can detect a Jaguar overheating, coolant loss, before the white smoke starts pouring out of the engine. Also, it helps technicians diagnose the issues, leaves any guessing and makes potential repairs more accessible and faster. 

Most drivers have experienced the check engine light on the dashboard. Well, this is the most common manifestation of the OBD system, signalling that something is wrong. However, the check engine light itself cannot say what the problem is, and only when you plug the diagnostic device into the OBD jack the Jaguar code will appear, telling you the probable cause, and if you should be worried. The OBD diagnosis is also part of every Jaguar service or pre-purchase Jaguar inspection.

How Do I Know If My Jaguar Has an OBD System?

The On-Board Vehicle Diagnostic systems became a thing in the late '60s, but they were pretty primitive and had very limited scope. However, with technological advancements and vehicle electronics, the OBD has become a standard in the mid to late '80s. As a premium brand with advanced features, Jaguar started implementing OBD jacks in that period and had limited features. However, the early OBD systems (often referred to as OBD 1) are not the most accurate. In 1996, the more advanced OBD II became mandatory, and due to advancements in vehicle electronics and modern in-car systems, it is still the best diagnostic system used by all manufacturers. 

So, how do you know if your Jaguar has an OBD system? If the vehicle is produced after 1996, it has standard OBD 2. But if the model was built before 1996, it has OBD 1 or no diagnostic system (classic Jaguar models). Interestingly, the Jaguar XJS, which was introduced in 1976 and sold through 1996, has only an OBD 1 diagnostic port. This is an exception to the rule. The Jaguar XK8, which replaced the XJS, has OBD 2. If you own modern Jaguars like Jaguar X-Type, Jaguar F-Pace or Jaguar XE, you can be comfortable knowing that all those cars support the OBD 2 system.

Where Is The OBD 2 Port Located On a Jaguar?

Regardless of what post-1996 model of Jaguar you own, the OBD 2 ports are always located in the same spot – underneath the steering wheel and slightly to the left. You will find a plastic cover; when you remove it, the OBD 2 port will be revealed. This is standard sport for all Jaguar cars, and it is easy to reach for technicians to plug in the OBD diagnostic tools. This is the proper way of reading the Jaguar manufacturer-specific trouble codes. However, since thieves sometimes use the OBD II port to steal vehicles, some owners relocated the OBD II port to a more secluded place. So, if you are purchasing a second-hand Jaguar vehicle and don't find the port in the usual spot, ask the owner for its location and why it was moved. Also, if you spot a vehicle without OBD 2, walk away; it has been tampered with.

Jaguar OBD 2 List Of Trouble Codes

Since the OBD 2 monitors almost all processes inside the vehicle, the complete list of trouble codes is enormously long, over a thousand points. However, some are rarely shown, and we compiled a list of the most common and crucial codes you must look for. All those OBD-II trouble codes work for the current lineup of Jaguar models – Jaguar XF, Jaguar F-Pace, Jaguar F-Type, and Jaguar I-Pace and E-Pace. Also, those trouble codes can be found for recently discontinued cars like Jaguar XJ or Jaguar XE. So, here are relevant Jaguar OBD II code definitions.

FAQ about Jaguar OBD2

How Do I Find My Jaguar Fault Code?

To read the OBD fault codes, plug the diagnostic device into a specific OBD port and start scanning for the codes. On some lesser and DIY devices, the regulations will appear in elemental form (letter/number). Still, on official diagnostic tools like we have at Westminster Motors, the codes will come with an explanation, which makes it easier to read and diagnose the problem. Modern days brought us some modern solutions to reading OBD codes, and now, if you have a proper jack, you can plug it into your smartphone and, using some of the free apps, you can scan your Jaguar fault codes. However, before you do that, you must know that those free OBD apps are not precisely free, and they can often misread the trouble codes list from the vehicle. For the most accurate readings, you should always use professional and official tools that will provide the exact fault code and an explanation for it. Jaguar pid codes are the standardized system of showing the fault codes list. 

How Do You Read The Jaguar Error Code

Reading the Jaguar OBD 2 fault codes is pretty straightforward, and when the OBD 2 diagnostic tool or app provides you with a specific fault code, you find it on the list we provided and look for an explanation. The code will tell you precisely what is wrong. However, it would help if you clearly distinguish between a proper fault or trouble code and an error code. Experienced mechanics know that OBD readings can sometimes display errors which are not faults and don't represent mechanical or electrical problems but common "hiccups" of the system. The Jaguar error codes are often faulty readings of the sensors resulting from various factors. For example, you changed the oil but forgot to reset the board computer, and now you have an error regarding the oil level or quality. In this case, the system will have an error reading, which is not realistic, so you need to erase the list of error codes. Most OBD diagnostic systems have that function; you can erase the principles you know are irrelevant or fake. 

What Is The OBD 2 Code Killer?

Since the OBD 2 fault codes can appear when the vehicle is tuned, when fuel quality is changed, when the car has the exhaust system modified or altered, or when the engine is converted to run on LPG, some owners decided that they don't want to see constant warning codes. In that case, the OBD 2 Code Killer is a recommended device. This device recognizes the regulations before they are shown on the dashboard as warning or check engine lights and stored in OBD 2 memory. It also acknowledges the error codes (which are explained in the above paragraph) and deletes them immediately. This device is often used by tuners who change numerous aspects of the engine to make it produce more power and have OBD 2 trouble codes about intake, exhaust, fuel/air mixture and so on. However, as practical as they are, OBD 2 Code Killers are also problematic since they can erase necessary fault codes and make the system not inform the driver about serious threats. We don't recommend it, although we understand its purpose. 

Can I Check The Engine Codes Without The Scanner?

Even though you will need a scanner for complete insight into OBD 2 codes, you can still check engine warnings without it. Depending on the model and year of production, it is possible to see codes by counting the flashing check engine light on the dashboard. To access this menu, you need to use your ignition key, turn the dashboard on but not the engine and press the odometer reset button. The check engine light will go on and start blinking in a sentence. For example, three times, then pause and then again two times. This indicated the code 32 (three plus two). However, it is impossible to do this on the latest models that use digital keys and digital instrument clusters. Hence, you must take it to a specialist shop for accurate readings with the Jaguar fault code reader. 

What Are The 4 Types Of OBD 2 Codes?

Since there are so many processes and functions of a vehicle, the number of OBD 2 trouble codes is immense. However, they are divided into four categories for easier understanding. Those four categories are:

• P Codes – "P" stands for "Powertrain, " meaning that codes starting with this letter are connected to engine and transmission problems. These are the most common codes you will see.

• B Code – When you see a "B" letter in front, you'll know something is wrong with the car's bodywork, hence the name. This is a rare code since most of the exterior problems with the vehicle are easily visible. 

• C Code – "C" stands for chassis and is also a rare OBD 2 fault code. 

• U Code – The codes that start with the letter "U" designate network and wiring systems, and they are also common in modern cars filled with electronic components. 

Conclusion:

As you can see, the OBD system is crucial in monitoring the vehicle's processes and helping resolve the issues as they appear. Since its introduction, it has helped millions of owners diagnose the faults and act quickly before the failures become too expensive or complicated. That is why Jaguar owners need to be aware that a simple check engine light could mean the vehicle is about to break down and must be checked by an experienced technician at Westminster Motors. Addressing this issue promptly can seriously reduce the servicing and repair costs.

Author: Avo Demirjian