Gear selection

Q I am having difficulty sometimes engaging reverse gear in my 2005 Jaguar S-TYPE 2.5 V6 petrol auto. There is obviously a problem with the shift mechanism, which is bound to escalate further if left too long. Are there some adjustments that I can make?

FJ Mcnamara

A The external gear selection mechanism on your Jaguar is quite simple, with few moving parts, although it does have an interlock solenoid. However, if this were defective you would notice a problem selecting forward as well as reverse. You can make adjustments at the selector lever cable, which should be set as follows: with the selector lever in the reverse position and reverse selected, the two locking nuts (one either side of the retaining bracket) should be loosened and then equally tightened back up onto the retaining bracket and torqued to 20Nm. This is the only adjustment available. Any problem with the cable itself would effect selection of all gears.

If no external faults can be found, it may suggest that the problem lies in the gearbox. If this is the case, the first point of action would be to check the gearbox oil for signs of discolouration indicating a worn gearbox. The level check plug is just above the sump and should not be removed unless the engine is running and ‘Park’ is selected. If the plug is removed without the engine running, excess oil will flow from the gearbox, lowering the required level.

Jaguar claim the gearbox is filled for life, but if problems are occurring then replacing the fluid may alleviate or delay major failure of the gearbox.