DIY Tip: Replacing Your Jaguar’s Battery? Go Gel-Cell

  • Gary

DIY Tip: Replacing Your Jaguar’s Battery? Go Gel-Cell – No Leaks, No Spills, No Headaches

If you’re in the market for a new battery for your Jaguar, especially if you own an XJS with its trunk-mounted setup, consider upgrading to a gel-cell battery like the Optima or Exide Orbital Select models.

Why Choose Gel-Cell Batteries?

Unlike traditional lead-acid batteries, gel-cell batteries don’t contain liquid acid sloshing around inside. Instead, the acid is suspended in a thick gel, which means:

  • No spills

  • No corrosion

  • No fumes

  • No terminal mess

  • No maintenance

Perfect for the Trunk-Mounted XJS Battery

The XJS stores its battery in the trunk, which can be a pain with standard batteries that need venting or leak protection. Gel-cell batteries eliminate those concerns completely—no vent tubes or acid leaks to worry about.

Built Tough, Works Hard

These batteries are incredibly rugged. In fact, even if you somehow punch a hole through one (not that you’d want to!), it won’t leak and will still work. That’s peace of mind on the road.

You’ll also get:

  • High cranking power

  • Long service life

  • Totally maintenance-free operation

Worth the Extra Cost

Yes, they run around $100, about 25% more than a top-tier standard battery. But for what you get—durability, safety, and zero upkeep—it’s money well spent.

Where to Buy

You can find these batteries at:

  • NAPA

  • AutoZone

  • O’Reilly/Checker

  • Even some Walmarts

Look for brands like Optima (usually with their signature red or yellow tops) or Exide Orbital.

Bottom Line:

For a Jaguar—especially a trunk-battery model like the XJS—a gel-cell battery is a smart, clean, and reliable upgrade you’ll appreciate every time you turn the key.