Summary
The Jaguar S-Type has 7 recalls spanning the 2000-2007 production run, with the most serious on 2003 models including an electronic parking brake that can engage unexpectedly at any speed, locking the rear wheels without warning and causing sudden loss of control. A second equally serious issue affects 2003 automatic transmission vehicles, where the gearbox can shift into reverse while the car is moving forward or stationary in a drive gear, with no indication to the driver that the change has occurred.
On 2005 models, seals inside the fuel tank can fail to stay seated, allowing fuel to leak onto the ground and creating a fire risk, often accompanied by a fuel odor or a check engine light. The 2007 model year has a separate fuel system concern: a small number of vehicles were built with prototype fuel tanks not validated for regular use, and their long-term durability is unconfirmed.
On 2000 models, the front lower ball joints may not have been torqued properly, allowing the retaining nut to work loose and the ball joint stud to fracture, which can cause the driver to lose steering and suspension control. Also on 2000 models, certain seat belt buckles may not withstand crash forces and can fail in a collision, increasing injury risk to the occupant. The 2002 model year has a minor compliance issue where the brake fluid reservoir is positioned beneath a leaf screen, making the fluid warning label unreadable without removing the cover.
