Jaguar Recalls Most Models Sold Since '88

NEW YORK TIMES
AP

Jaguar PLC is recalling 38,315 models, nearly every car it has sold in the United States since the 1988 model year, because of potential brake problems. The recall also affects 56,000 cars sold in other countries.

The recalled cars have a high-pressure hose that could rupture and spew hot brake fluid on the engine, causing smoke, fire and loss of braking power, the auto maker said. Jaguar also said it is recalling 38,385 cars sold in this country dating from the model year 1979 for defects that could cause the automatic cruise control device to jam.

The company said it is unaware of any accidents or injuries resulting from the defects, which will be repaired free of charge. Owners will be notified by mail.

In the brake recall, all XJ6, Vanden Plas and Majestic cars sold in the United States will be checked for potential leaks. The recall represents the total number of those models sold in the United States in the 1988 and 1989 model years. The 1990 model, of which only a small number have been sold, was not affected.

The cruise control recall affects 1979 model XJ12 sedans and 1982 to 1990 model XJ-S cars. The recalls comes at a time when Jaguar, which is suffering from a slide in sales in its most important foreign market, the United States, is being aggressively challenged in the luxury car market by Japanese and German competitors.

The British company, which recently agreed to be acquired by the Ford Motor Company, has long been tainted by reputation for inconsistent quality and complaints about service.