1986 Jaguar XJS
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 1 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 2 |
| 1985 | 4 |
| 1986 | 2 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1988 | 7 |
| 1989 | 14 |
| 1990 | 15 |
| 1991 | 8 |
| 1992 | 4 |
| 1993 | 1 |
| 1994 | 6 |
| 1995 | 6 |
| 1996 | 7 |
| 1998 | 1 |
| 2001 | 1 |
| 2002 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 2 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing tank assembly.
Show complaint excerpts
DUE TO EXCESSIVE FUEL VAPOR PRESSURE THE FUEL TANK STRUCTURE HAS WEAKENED, RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19980820
FUEL TANK LEAKED FUEL PRIOR TO/AFTER RECALL REPAIRS (90V-123). *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19970925
SAFETY TIMELINE
ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS MAY HAVE BEEN INCORRECTLY INSTALLED AND COULD CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT.
Remedy: REROUTE HARNESS; IF CHAFED OR DAMAGED CONDITION WILL BE CORRECTED.
Campaign 87V025000 — check if this car was fixed
EXCESSIVE FUEL VAPOR PRESSURE CAN OCCUR.
Remedy: INSTALL REVISED PURGE SYSTEM COMPONENTS.
Campaign 89V168000 — check if this car was fixed
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED VALVES IN THE CRUISE CONTROL ACTUATOR MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY DUE TO DIRT ENTERING THE VALVES.
Remedy: REPLACE CRUISE CONTROL ACTUATOR AND INSTALL ADDITIONAL VACUUM DUMP VALVE.
Campaign 90V035000 — check if this car was fixed
EXCESSIVE FUEL VAPOR PRESSURE CAN OCCUR THAT, AFTER PROLONGED CYCLING, COULD WEAKEN THE FUEL TANK STRUCTURE.
Remedy: INSTALL A REVISED FUEL PURGE SYSTEM WHICH ELIMINATES EXCESSIVE VAPOR PRESSURE BUILD-UP.
Campaign 90V123000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1986 Jaguar XJS — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 87V025000 (electrical system) has been completed.
- Verify recall 89V168000 (engine and engine cooling) has been completed.
- Verify recall 90V035000 (vehicle speed control) has been completed.
- Verify recall 90V123000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1986 Jaguar XJS reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1986 Jaguar XJS?
The most-reported component is fuel system, gasoline, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1986 Jaguar XJS have?
4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.