IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2010 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351)

The 2010 model year saw the introduction of the radical X351 generation XJ. Abandoning the classic styling completely, it offered a striking, modern design language, luxurious interior, and powerful new engines, firmly repositioning Jaguar's flagship.

What changed for 2010

  • •Debut of the completely redesigned X351 generation, discarding retro styling.
  • •Introduction of the new 5.0-litre V8 and 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel engines.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Cracking or delamination of the panoramic sunroof glass.
  • !Dashboard warning lights related to electrical glitches or weak battery voltage.
4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£1,200
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Check how quickly the car rises from a cold start
  • Listen for a noisy compressor (located in the front bumper on X350)
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Timing Chain Tensioner Wear (5.0 V8)

SeriousEngine

Early 5.0 V8 and 3.0 supercharged V6 engines have a design flaw where the timing chain tensioner piston wears through the aluminium-backed guide over time. This causes the chain to stretch and eventually jump, which can destroy the engine. The issue is most critical on pre-2013 cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £2,500–£5,000
Warning Signs:

Metallic rattling noise on cold start, Restricted performance warning, Engine misfires or runs rough, Timing fault codes (P0016, P0017)

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for chain rattle from a stone-cold start
  • Check service history for timing chain or tensioner replacement
  • Look for evidence of updated tensioners being fitted
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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 This is typically caused by torque converter clutch issues or outdated TCM software and can often be resolved with a software reflash and fresh fluid.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£800
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£400 per door
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Test all door locks and windows from the driver's switch and key fob
  • Check that double-locking disengages correctly
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2010 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351)

  • ✓Inspect the panoramic sunroof carefully for any stress cracks or rattling noises over bumps.
  • ✓On the 3.0 diesel, check for signs of inlet manifold cracking, a known issue that causes boost leaks.
20092011–2012
Check a 2010 Jaguar XJ (X350/X351) by Registration