The Jaguar AJ33 4.2-litre V8 petrol engine was built by Jaguar from 2002 to 2009 and was used in models such as the XK8 and XJ8, as well as the S-Type, but there it was most often called the AJ36. In addition to the 4.2-liter engine, a 3.5-liter power unit was offered under this index.
AJ-V8 family: AJ126, AJ27, AJ27S, AJ28, AJ33, AJ33S, AJ34, AJ34S, AJ133, AJ133S.
Specifications
| Production years | 2002-2009 |
| Displacement, cc | 3555 4196 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 258 (3.5 liters) 298 (4.2 liters) |
| Torque output, Nm | 335 – 355 (3.5 liters) 411 (4.2 liters) |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V8 |
| Block head | aluminum 32v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 86 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 76.5 (3.5 liters) 90.3 (4.2 liters) |
| Compression ratio | 11.0 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | yes |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Jaguar XJ 2003) — city — highway — combined |
16.0 8.1 10.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~450 000 |
| Weight, kg | 180 |
The engine was installed on:
- Jaguar S-Type 1 (X200) in 2002 – 2004;
- Jaguar XJ 7 (X350) in 2003 – 2009;
- Jaguar XK 1 (X100) in 2002 – 2006, XK 2 (X150) in 2007 – 2009.
Disadvantages of the Jaguar AJ33 engine
- In terms of reliability, this unit has no big problems, but fuel consumption is high;
- Also, there are no problematic phase regulators of the VVT type;
- The aluminum motor is afraid of overheating, monitor the condition of the radiator and pump;
- Search for the cause of unstable engine operation, start by uploading a fresh ECU firmware;
- The rest of the problems are related to sensor glitches and leaks of lubricant or antifreeze.
Frequently asked questions about the Jaguar AJ33
How much power does the Jaguar AJ33 make?
Power output of the Jaguar AJ33, hp: 258 (3.5 liters); 298 (4.2 liters). Torque, Nm: 335 - 355 (3.5 liters); 411 (4.2 liters).
How much oil does the Jaguar AJ33 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Jaguar AJ33 have a timing belt or chain?
The Jaguar AJ33 uses a timing chain.
Is the Jaguar AJ33 turbocharged?
No, the Jaguar AJ33 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Jaguar AJ33 need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Jaguar AJ33 last?
The typical lifespan of the Jaguar AJ33 is ~450 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Jaguar AJ33?
Jaguar XJ 2003: city 16.0, highway 8.1, combined 10.9 L/100 km.
What cars was the Jaguar AJ33 installed on?
Jaguar S-Type 1 (X200) in 2002 - 2004; Jaguar XJ 7 (X350) in 2003 - 2009; Jaguar XK 1 (X100) in 2002 - 2006, XK 2 (X150) in 2007 - 2009.
What are the common problems of the Jaguar AJ33?
In terms of reliability, this unit has no big problems, but fuel consumption is high. Also, there are no problematic phase regulators of the VVT type. All known problems.
