IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2003–2008 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2003–2008 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2003–2008 period has 3 more issues than the Jaguar XJ (X350/X351) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Air Suspension Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Air struts leak or the compressor fails to reach pressure, leaving the car "slammed" on its bump stops.

Most affected: All models with air suspension

Estimated cost: £400–£1,200Affects: 2003–2019Often appears around: 60k-100k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •"Air Suspension Fault" message
  • •Car sitting low on one or more corners after being parked
  • •Harsh ride quality

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check how quickly the car rises from a cold start
  • ✓Listen for a noisy compressor (located in the front bumper on X350)

Aluminum Corrosion (X350)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Although it won’t rust like steel, the X350 suffers from galvanic corrosion, appearing as bubbling paint around the wheel arches and boot lid.

Most affected: X350/X358 models

Estimated cost: £400–£1,000Affects: 2003–2009Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling paint
  • •White powdery residue under paint chips

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect the leading edge of the bonnet, boot lid, and around the door handles

ZF Gearbox Surging & Lurch

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The ZF six-speed automatic gearbox can develop surging on light throttle at 30-50mph and harsh lurching into gear when coming to a stop. This is typically caused by torque converter clutch issues or outdated TCM software and can often be resolved with a software reflash and fresh fluid.

Most affected: All ZF 6-speed models

Estimated cost: £250–£800Affects: 2003–2012Often appears around: 60k-100k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Surging or hunting at steady throttle speeds
  • •Harsh lurch when coming to a stop
  • •Barking noise on downshifts

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive the car at motorway speeds and feel for surging
  • ✓Test multiple low-speed stops for lurching
  • ✓Check if gearbox oil and filter have been changed

Door Lock & Window Regulator Failures

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The door lock actuators and window regulators are common failure points on the X350. Lock failures can leave doors stuck in the double-locked position, while window regulators fail with the cable-driven mechanism snapping or the motor burning out.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £150–£400 per doorAffects: 2003–2019Often appears around: 60k-120k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Door fails to lock or unlock
  • •Window drops into the door panel
  • •Window operates slowly or makes grinding noises

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test all door locks and windows from the driver's switch and key fob
  • ✓Check that double-locking disengages correctly

Buying Tips for the 2003 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351)

  • ✓On X350 models, look for "white powder" under the paint; this is aluminum corrosion (oxidization) and is common on rivets.
  • ✓On X351 models (2010+), check the sunroof for popping or creaking sounds—a common issue often requiring new subframe bolts.
  • ✓The 3.0D V6 (X351) is a powerhouse but check for any signs of crankshaft issues or oil dilution.
2009 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351)

Browse 2003–2008 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2003–2008 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351) vehicles.

View 2003–2008 Directory

Other Jaguar XJ (X350/X351) Year Periods

2003–200820092010–201220132014–2019

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