Jaguar XE Diesel: Throttle Trouble Signals Warning Signs

I had a very similar issue with my 2015 Jaguar XF diesel last year. Having dealt with several diesel engines before, I have some experience with throttle-related problems. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, poor throttle response, unstable engine idle, and declining fuel efficiency. After the air intake and fuel system checks showed no issues, my workshop diagnosed a defective accelerator pedal module. The repair involved: Complete diagnostic scan, testing the throttle position sensor, Replacing the accelerator pedal module, Recalibrating the new module Total cost was 205€ and the repair took about 2 hours. The improved throttle response was immediately noticeable, and the engine idle returned to normal. To better assist you, could you provide: Current mileage, Any warning lights on the dashboard, Whether the issue occurs only during cold starts or also when the engine is warm, Any recent maintenance history, Any engine management system updates performed recently These details would help determine if your XE is facing the same issue my XF had.

My current mileage is 65760 KM and just had the annual service last month. No check engine light is visible, but the throttle response issue continues during both cold and warm starts. I did notice the engine idle stabilizes somewhat after a few minutes of running. The throttle cleaning service was recommended during my last workshop visit, but I postponed it since the car throttle was working fine then. I am now wondering if I should have done it earlier. I appreciate the detailed breakdown of your repair experience and costs. The throttle position sensor test seems like a logical first step. Were there any specific symptoms that helped differentiate between a faulty pedal module versus a dirty throttle body in your case?

Thanks for providing those details. Looking back at my XF's symptoms, I can share some key differences that helped identify the issue. When my pedal module was failing, the throttle response was consistently poor regardless of engine temperature or running time. Unlike your case where the engine idle improves after warming up, mine stayed erratic throughout. Based on your description, this sounds more like a dirty throttle valve situation than the pedal module issue I had. The gradual improvement in engine idle after warm-up is a classic sign of carbon buildup affecting the throttle valve operation. In my pre-pedal module diagnosis, the workshop also checked for carbon deposits around the air intake and throttle body areas. A thorough throttle cleaning service might resolve your issues without needing component replacement. This typically costs around 150€ and takes about an hour. A quick way to help confirm: If you notice hesitation specifically when pressing the accelerator from idle, combined with improving performance as the engine warms, its likely throttle valve related rather than the pedal module problem I experienced. Consider getting that throttle cleaning done soon, as continuing to run with restricted air flow could lead to further performance issues and increased fuel consumption.

Thanks for the insights about the throttle position sensor test versus throttle body cleaning. You make a good point about the warm-up behavior being different. Since my engine idle does improve after warming up, it does sound more like a dirty throttle valve than a faulty pedal module. I will schedule the recommended throttle cleaning service this week. The 150€ cost seems reasonable compared to potentially more expensive repairs if left unchecked. Hopefully this will restore proper throttle response and resolve the rough engine idle during cold starts. Just to make sure, should I mention to the workshop about checking for carbon deposits around both the throttle body and air intake areas? Want to ensure they do a complete inspection while they have it apart. Also wondering if the car throttle response should improve immediately after cleaning or if it takes some driving time to notice the difference?