The Jaguar 306PS is a 4,999 cc, V8 petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32-valve architecture, and direct fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 225 kW (306 PS) and 460 Nm of torque, providing strong high-revving performance ideal for grand tourers and luxury saloons.
Fitted to models such as the XJ (X351), XF (X250 facelift), and XK (X150 facelift), the 306PS was engineered for refined cruising and responsive throttle delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management and catalytic converters, enabling Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is early camshaft wear, particularly on the exhaust camshaft, highlighted in Jaguar Technical Service Bulletin JTSB-07-12-05. This issue arises from inadequate lubrication flow in the cam carrier oil galleries, exacerbated by extended oil change intervals. In 2012, Jaguar introduced revised camshafts and updated oil feed passages to mitigate wear and improve longevity.
Jaguar
Production years 2009–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6780).
The Jaguar 306PS is a 4,999 cc V8 petrol engine developed for luxury saloons and grand tourers (2009–2015). It combines DOHC architecture with 32-valve cylinder heads to deliver smooth, high-capacity performance. Engineered to meet mid-2000s European emissions standards, it balances refinement with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (306 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 460 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | DOHC with hydraulic tappets | |
| Timing system | Double-row timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Jaguar Specification WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 228 kg |
The 306PS's naturally aspirated V8 design provides smooth, high-revving power delivery but requires consistent use of premium unleaded petrol (RON 95 minimum) to prevent detonation and maintain valve train longevity. Jaguar WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and compatibility with hydraulic tappets. Camshaft inspection per JTSB-07-12-05 is recommended if ticking noise or performance loss occurs. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear during major services. Post-2012 models benefit from revised camshafts and oil feed design, reducing wear incidence.
Oil Specs: Requires Jaguar WSS-M2C913-D (5W-30) specification (Jaguar SIB JTSB-11-20-03). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6780).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU markets (Jaguar TIS Doc. JT-306PS-POWER).
Jaguar Technical Information System (TIS): Docs JT-306PS-CONF, JT-306PS-VALVE, JTSB-07-12-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6780)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jaguar 306PS was used across Jaguar's X351/X250 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design lineage with later Range Rover units. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mapping revisions in the XJ and enhanced NVH tuning in the XF-and from 2012, updated camshaft casting and oil feed passages improved reliability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Jaguar TIS JT-306PS-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for petrol V8). Pre-2012 models use silver valve covers with '306PS' label; post-2012 units feature revised cam carrier with updated serial tag. Critical differentiation from AJ-V8: 306PS has unique intake manifold routing and lacks balance shaft. Service parts require model-year verification—camshafts before 2012 are not interchangeable with later revisions (Jaguar SIB JTSB-07-12-05).
The 306PS's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals or poor oil quality. Internal Jaguar field reports from 2016 indicated a significant share of pre-2012 units required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows emissions-related failures are common in poorly maintained examples. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase tappet and injector stress, making adherence to service schedules and coolant quality critical.
Analysis derived from Jaguar technical bulletins (2009–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JAGUAR 306PS.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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