Jaguar to recall 5000 XJ saloons

By Clifford Webb Midland Industrial Corresoondent

British Leyland are recalling 5,000 1972 and 1973 XJ6 and XJ12 saloons, together with their Daimler derivatives, for a precautionary check on steering mechanism.

A Jaguar spokesman said last night: "We would emphasize that this is not as a result of a single accident or the failure of a single steering component. During normal production at the factory it was found that there was insufficient engagement of a taper plug associated with the rack-and-pinion mechanism, The loss of this part would not in any way affect the car's steering or introduce any danger.

"The plug is a second line precaution, what we in the business call a 'belt and braces ' piece. We have asked dealers in all our markets to check the cars with chassis numbers in certain categories and, if necessary, to fit a modified plug."