Jaguar XJ6 Ignition Coil Guide (1978-1990): Choosing the Right Part
Everything a Series II & III owner needs to know before replacing a failing ignition coil.
- A failing coil often causes sudden stalling when the engine is hot.
- Check for oil leaking from the coil canister, which is a sure sign of failure.
- Quality aftermarket brands like NGK or Standard Ignition are a reliable choice for this vintage vehicle.
- Verify if your XJ6 needs a coil for a ballasted or non-ballasted system before ordering.
Signs of a Failing Ignition Coil on Your XJ6
A failing ignition coil in a Jaguar XJ6 can cause frustrating problems that may seem to appear out of nowhere. Because the ignition system relies on this single part, a bad coil will stop the entire engine. Watch for these common symptoms:
- Sudden Engine Stalling: The most reported symptom is the engine cutting out completely while driving. Often, the car may restart after cooling down for 5-10 minutes, only to stall again later.
- No-Start Condition: The engine will crank over but will not fire up. You may have power to all accessories, but the engine itself won't start. 🎬 See this guide for troubleshooting Jaguar XJ6 start up issues
- Poor Engine Performance: You might notice the engine hesitating during acceleration, running roughly, or misfiring. 🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting a rough idle on an XJ6 Series 3
- Visible Oil Leaks: The original style coils are filled with oil for cooling. If you see oil leaking from the metal canister, the coil is failing and must be replaced.
Safety First: Leaking Coils
The oil inside very old ignition coils may contain Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), which are hazardous. If you find a leaking coil, wear disposable gloves and handle it with care.
Choosing an Aftermarket Ignition Coil
For a classic car like the 1978-1990 XJ6, the term "OEM" can be misleading. The original part suppliers may no longer exist, and parts sold as "Genuine Jaguar" are often re-boxed aftermarket components at a much higher price. A quality aftermarket part from a trusted brand is often the best value and can even offer improved reliability over the original design.
Here’s a breakdown of available brands:
- Premium Aftermarket (NGK, Standard Ignition): Brands like NGK and Standard Motor Products (SMP) have a strong reputation for quality ignition components. NGK is a trusted name in many car communities, and owners report good experiences. SMP often engineers its parts to fix the known flaws of the original factory components. These are excellent choices for reliability.
- Standard Aftermarket (Spectra, Walker Products, Holstein): These brands provide a balance of value and performance. They are designed to be direct-fit replacements that meet or exceed original specifications and are a good option for budget-conscious repairs.
- Value-Priced (Global Parts): These coils offer the most affordable entry point to get your Jaguar back on the road. They meet basic requirements but may not have the same long-term durability as premium options.
A Note on the Jaguar Ignition System
The Lucas ignition systems in these cars are known for being sensitive. A failing coil is common, but so is a failing ignition amplifier module or distributor pickup. These parts often fail when hot. If a new coil doesn't solve your stalling issue, the ignition amplifier is the next most likely culprit. 🎬 Watch: How to rebuild the Lucas AB14 ignition amplifier Many mechanics recommend replacing the amplifier and distributor pickup at the same time.
Cost of a New Ignition Coil (1978-1990 Jaguar XJ6)
| Part Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $29.97 - $91.01 | Price depends on the brand. Premium brands like NGK are at the higher end. |
| Shop Labor | $70 - $120 | Expect about 0.5 to 1.0 hour of labor for a professional replacement. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
No, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The ignition coil is a single canister usually mounted in an accessible location in the engine bay. It involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging a few electrical connectors, removing a mounting bracket, and then installing the new coil. Basic hand tools are all that is required.
Do I need a special coil for my car? Ballast vs. Non-Ballast.
Yes, this is very important. Later Series III XJ6 models (in North America, from VIN 412543) used an external ballast resistor with the coil. Using the wrong type can damage your ignition system. Check your vehicle's setup. If you see a large ceramic resistor attached to or near the coil, you have a ballasted system. Forum users have found that a coil with a primary resistance of about 1.0 ohm works well as a replacement for these systems.
Are there any recalls for the ignition coil on my XJ6?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to the ignition coil for the 1978-1990 Jaguar XJ6.
Should I replace anything else with the ignition coil?
While not required, it's a good time to inspect your spark plug wires, distributor cap, and rotor. If they are old or worn, replacing them at the same time can improve performance and prevent future problems. As mentioned earlier, if stalling issues persist, the ignition amplifier is the next part to check.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DAC3001 DLB198 DLB102 DBC1140
Canister-style, oil-filled ignition coil. Check for ballasted or non-ballasted system requirement.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.