The Jaguar XK8 and XKR rear suspension system has generally been very robust in service. The assembly and associated parts are based on the proven Jaguar X300 system, which in turn was based on the old Jaguar XJ40 system. However, problems are beginning to arise that the XK8 / XKR owner should be aware of. To date, the following are the main issues related to the Jaguar XK8 and XKR rear suspension parts assembly:

CATS (Computer Active Technology Suspension) System

Although it is based on the older X300 rear suspension design, a new modification was the introduction of CATS. This optimizes the handling and handling of the car by means of improved springs to increase stiffness and electronic adaptive dampers under electronic control. Sensors in the front and rear of the car monitor the road and driving conditions and alter the electronic dampers to soften or stiffen the dampers. When starting out, springs defaulted to a stiffer setting and then on the road on a smooth road, they will soften. The settings will change in micro settings as braking, cornering and road conditions affect the car.

XK8 / XKR suspension issues

If you have a CATS equipped car and the rear suspension is not working effectively, this can be a problem with the shock absorber electrical connections going to the wiring. Over time, the dampers can rotate in service, which can cause the electrical connections to be disconnected. This may require replacement of the shock absorber part.

As with other areas of the XK8 / XKR, changing the parts of the rear shocks is not as easy as it sounds. First, the rear suspension must be unscrewed and lowered several inches. A special slim design spring compressor is required to allow release of the damper from the spring unit. With the spring properly compressed, the fulcrum pin can be removed, which may well have caught in position. If this is the case, due to severe lack of space in the area and the bottom of the spring compressor clogging, this will have to be cut with a small angle grinder.

To complete the removal of the shocks, it is necessary to remove the rear tie bar together with the A-Frame safety plate. Also remove the nuts holding the top plate to the shock spring tray.