Jaguar S-Type

cartesio · February 2003

Don't panic. The same thing happened to me in my Olds 98 when I was much younger. Turned out to be a gasket in the steering pump!

kinley · February 2003

bsellers2 · February 2003

At what cost can man fix it. How do you convince a wife the vehicle is safe when it end up on the wrong side of the road with no steering! We love the car, however we have no confidence in the one we purchased. The dealer said the "rack assembly" failed and will take ten day's to get the part from England. The car was purchased for the wife who wanted a Lexus and now she is scared to even get back in it with our young daughter.

Thanks to all for your comments

akirby · February 2003

I understand her being reluctant but you have to explain how rare this type of failure is and that they're replacing the entire steering rack to fix it. Take it out and really work the steering when you get it back. How would she feel if a tire had blown out at 70 mph and all the tires were replaced with new ones and inspected very carefully? She'll probably get over it but those first few days may be tough - especially if she wanted the Lexus to begin with. This just might be her excuse. If so, just get it over with and trade it for the Lexus. If she ain't happy - you ain't happy!

kinley · February 2003

He only married one of them. It is more economical in the long run to buy her what she wants as it is cheaper than a divorce. "If Mama ain't happy, nobody is happy" is a truism. Let her develop the Lexus dealer's patience.

rocxs · February 2003

Through a business transaction, We have come to own a brand new, 2003, S type with 700 miles. I have the original purchase order, including all taxes and dealer b.s. the price was $57553. What is the retail value of this car if I attempt to sell it myself? What is the wholesale value of the car through an auction or to a high end dealer?

The car is in Tampa, FL. Anybody interested?

akirby · February 2003

I would guess you might be able to get $50K private party for it (assuming $57K didn't include taxes). As for wholesale just take it to a dealer or call them and get a price. You won't find much data for such a new vehicle on the web. My guess is a dealer might only give you $45K for it but that's just a guess.

doasidont · February 2003

This is basically a Lincoln, right? Are repair and maintenance costs (e.g., brakes, radiator flush, tranny) about the same as a Lincoln (ford)? Thanks.

akirby · February 2003

No, this isn't "just a Lincoln". Even though they share a jointly developed 'platform' and basic engine blocks they are totally different vehicles. Different engines, different interiors, different suspensions, different exterior. The number of actual shared components is extremely small - probably less than 20%.

It's a Jag and the maintenance is no different than any other Jag. And I'm a Lincoln LS owner, not a S-type owner, so I'm not biased.

bhoskins · February 2003

Yes, you can get the same car with more interior room for $9k less. Why are you all paying the extra? Is it styling, quality of build (really, with this much extra I could make the interior look like a BMW, and the exterior like a Boxter) or prestige value (who will unabashedly admit to the latter)
Looks to me like the Marketers are trying to put one over on us. Death to the phrase "going up-market"!
Also, who votes for the 3.0 V6 to be replaced by a 3.4 V6? - - it is simply too small for the weight it has to pull!

kinley · February 2003

But, in Reno it's a lot handier. What is the handyness of repair rating of rare cars in remote locations?

kenadman · February 2003

Anyone know what stock Alpine model is installed in the S-Type? I am interested in adding XM radio but I don't know if it can connect to the current Alpine or do I have to replace it? Also any idea where to get the communication system if my dealer does not sell the car with one?

Thanks

wannacat · February 2003

I am looking for a 2003 S Type 4.2 ebony with tan interior, nav system, alpine sound, heated seats, xenon lights. Does yours match?

gigi06 · February 2003

There is an archived discussion ending on 08/19/02 on the above topic. I am now in the market for one or the other. Should I request that topic be reopened or just start here?

akirby · February 2003

What questions do you have? This is really a personal choice and not something that can be debated (although many try). Which model(s)? 525, 530, 540, M5? 3.0 or 4.2 S-type? What are your priorities? You can't go wrong with either one.

im_brentwood · February 2003

I'm a dealer.. and I wholesale a LOT of used S-Types (I just bought 5 of them last week for example). So, figure I have about 15 pass through my hands a month.. times, say, 3 years... I've probably handled over 350-400 being a tad conservative.

I have NEVER seen that problem. EVER.

But here's what I have seen:

A 2000 LS400 caught on fire at an auction.
A Rolls Royce with low miles that had been fanatically maintained throw a rod.
A 2003 Honda Accord with a bad transmission.

ANYTHING can break on ANY car. Hope the above is some consolation.. I'm sure the car will be fine.

Bill

im_brentwood · February 2003

Is it a 4.0?? If so it can't be a 2003. 2003s use the 4.2L engine!

What options does it have? Color combo? etc?

I can give you an idea of market if I have some more info...

Bill

jagboyxtype · February 2003

Bill! You're back! I'm so happy to see you!

im_brentwood · February 2003

Good to be back!

Wait till you get to drive the X350

jagboyxtype · February 2003

A chance to drive any Jag is a treat! :-D

mtgtradr · February 2003

I'm looking at a '92 XJ-S Sovereign at a local independent dealer. The car has 34,000 original miles and a clean carfax report. What should I look for?

im_brentwood · February 2003

Lots of stuff.

XJ-S? Sovereign? Maybe it's an XJ6 Sovereign? XJ-Ss are two-door coupes.. Sovereigns are 4-Door sedans.

(This belongs in the XJ Series Jag topic tho..)

Here's what you need to check on an XJ40...

1) Head gasket oil leaks ($500 job, $1K at dealer, Probably $2K at the Orlando dealer). Check the base of the distributor, if it's wet an oily, that's a bad head gasket. OTOH, this does not affect running of the engine, it's an external oil leak and not a "Must-Fix NOW" job.

2) Differential. It had better be quiet. (Groaning/Vibration under deceleration from the rear of the car....) Groaning diff is a $500-1500 job depending on what it needs.

3) Self-Levelling rear suspension. It sucks. It WILL fail, so the car should have been converted by now. If it is sitting low in the rear, it was not done right. The easiest way to check is to look at the hydraulic valve block (Has metal hydraulic hoses going to it) on the passenger side inner front fender. It's by the power steering resivoir. Feel on the bottom of it.. on the back end (The end closes to the back of the car) there should be one hole plugged with a big bolt. That's good. Again, $500 job.

4) Rust. Edge of trunklid, front corners of hood, A-Pillars, base of rear window (If it's on the A-Pillar or below the rear window, don't buy it unless you want to spend $1,500+ to fix it properly)

5) That wood trim is not cheap. Make sure it's nice.

6) Door handles. They CAN break, but if they are stiff they WILL break unless adjusted (Very minor)

7) Warning lights. ABS and "BRAKE" will take a few seconds to go out when started from cold. If the "BRAKE" light is on or comes on when you hit the brakes, hit the "VCM" button to the right of the steering wheel. If it says "PAD" then it needs new brakes. No biggie. If when running and warmed up, hitting the brake pedal less than about 5 or 6 times quickly causes the ABS and BRAKE lights to come on, then it needs a new accumulator. $250 or so. Labor cheap, you can do it yourself if you are VERY careful, part is $180.

8) Headliners sag in the south.. $125-250 depending where you go.

9) Leather is expensive to fix.

10) Tires. Unless it has 205-70R15 Michelin MXV4s or Pirelli P5s/P4000s, (Alternatively 215-65R15s in V or Z rating of a different brand) it's sitting on the wrong tires and won't handle properly.

11) Metallic paints can burn out in the Southern Sun.

12) Make sure it still has the VIN on the doors, decklid, front and rear fenders, hood, etc. Otherwise this points to Paintwork/Accidents.

13) Once you buy it I would suggest changing the hoses. 3-4 hours labor plus $180-200 for ALL the hoses.

Ad nauseum... I know these cars very well, feel free to e-mail me with ???s or post here or in the XJ topic. a NICE XJ40 is a wonderful car for little money. a RAT Will bury you financially.

So what do they want for this baby?

Bill

kinley · February 2003

im_brentwood · February 2003

Been dealing with them for 7 years, driving them since I had my license, I am VP of the local club and sell 30-40 a month

jagboyxtype · February 2003

When it comes to Jags, brentwoodvolvo knows more than just about anyone here... maybe even me! (just kidding, of course he knows more than me.)

jagboyxtype · February 2003

Jaguar has built a new 3.5 liter AJ-V6, and rumor has it that it will be in use in the X-type, replacing the 3.0 liter or being added to the engine choices. Naturally, the engine would also see life in the S-type then, fitting in between the 3.0 and 4.2 liter. Any thoughts?

im_brentwood · March 2003

If they ditch the 3.0 for the 3.5 it'd be a step in the right direction, the 3.0 S-Type isnt the fastest thing in its' class...

Although I am looking for a 5-Speed for meself

ceksc · March 2003

My s type 3.5 is now two years old and I have had NO problems with the car. I highly recommend the car. It is much more than a Lincoln. All you need to do is drive down the street with one. I believe it is one of the most attractive cars on the road and certainly one of the most attractive in its price range. I have one year to go on my lease and I believe I will be hard pressed to find a car that I like any more than this one.

jagboyxtype · March 2003

It's not about getting there the fastest, and while the S-type 3.0 isn't the fastest car in its class, it's not by any means slow.

It's all about the unique "Jaguar-ness" that nothing besides a Jag can give you...

rstoerger · March 2003

I have had my S-type for nearly three years and honestly love it. Never had any major issues. I am about to end this lease and have been considering getting into a brand new one...which has some excellent improvements.

While the past two winters have been mild, this year's has not. My car does not do well at all in even the mildest slush. As such, I am reconsidering getting into a new one lest the upcoming winters be bad.

Has anyone had either positive or negative issues regarding S-Types in Snow. How about the four-wheel drive X-Type?

lateralg · March 2003

It's not the car, it's the tires. Get the car you want, then get a good set of winter tires.

rstoerger · March 2003

I have to ask you about the tire thing. My problem isn't related to just the rear tires. The front end is sliding out. I have spoken with others driving S-Types and they have the same problem. Will snow tires on all fours really make a difference?

rea98d · March 2003

Why would the front end be more immune to loosing traction than the back? The front has the same amount of rubber touching pavement as the back, and is just as compromised on ice or slick roads as the back. Any time the roads are slick and you nail the brakes and turn at the same time, your fronts will slide, your car will keep going straight and you'll have almost no braking. I had this happen in a rainstorm in my T-Bird once. I replaced the el-cheapo Firestones on the car with a set of Michelins, and it helped 1000%. Get a good set of snow tires, and then drive like the roads are icy and you have no traction, and you'' be fine. And the number one rule to remember in iclement weather is that it is not a race. Take your time, use common sense, and slow down, and it doesn't matter what you're driving, you can usually make it. If there's snow on the ground, and you're passing any car that is still moving foreward, you're going way too fast. Last week we had freezing rain and sleet cover our roads with ice, and I had to drive in it. Luckily, my grandma was in town, and her car has ABS and is FWD, so that helped not having to drive my V-8, RWD hogs. Anyway, the whole time I was out in the bad weather, I got passed by just about every other car on the road, but somehow avoided ending up like the Chevy that went nose-first into a tree, or the Escort that slid off the road and got stuck in a ditch until the ice thawed.

cfgross · March 2003

I have Michelin Pilot Alpins mounted on separate 16" rims for the winter. The car handles great in snow, slush or ice (with propper driving technique, of course). I have no qualms about driving in any weather we get here (Philly area), including the blizzard 2 weeks ago.

Craig

im_brentwood · March 2003

Yes they do! Sport pack Ss with the Pirelli P-Zeros are almost undriveable in the snow (Ditto XJSports, XJRs, XKRs...)

A set of snows makes a tremendous difference, you need 4. 2 to steer, 2 to stop.

An X will be a bit better, but throw a set of Pirelli Snows on (Or, ideally, if they make them to fit your car, Nokia Hakkapellittas.. yes, same company who makes cell phones).

Bill

keyrow · March 2003

I disagree with your assessment that " If there's snow on the ground, and you're passing any car that is still moving foreward, you're going way too fast." It really depends upon the intelligence of the person driving the car in front of you. I live in Cincinnati where most drivers think the speed limit drops to 10MPH at the first sign of a snow flake. I easily pass those who are just plain afraid of snow without ever endangering either myself or anyone else. I also learned how to drive in snow when I lived on the east side of Cleveland, lots of lake effect snow. Experience and reasonableness, if that is a real word, matters. Your statement makes the driver who is most afraid, and should not be out driving, the rule rather than the exception. Sounds like our education system, make the "least smart" individual the standard rather than saying that person is not performing to the expected standard. Sorry, that's another topic.

BTW I drive an '01 Lincoln LS and I have 4 snow tires (Michelin Pilot Alpines). I have never had a problem with either snow or ice.

rstoerger · March 2003

I appreciate all of the responses to my question regarding snow tires. I love my current S-Type and was looking forward to getting into a new and improved '03 model this April. Needless to say, the snow this winter here in the N.E. gave me cause for concern. I have no problem putting snow tires on. Thanks to the remarks, I will use four next winter (not just two) and give it a shot.

im_brentwood · March 2003

Also make sure you get the Traction upgrade as well!

Bill

Bunkie · March 2003

I am considering the Jaguar S model--what color
do you think looks awesome on the car??

kinley · March 2003

ceksc · March 2003

The best color on this car depends upon where you live. I have the sappire blue-- which I love. It is a head turner and the chrome of the grill looks awesome against it. If I lived in the south (warmer climate) I might consider the lighter metallic blue (not sure of name). It is an awesome color. The silver is nice but too common. The black does not do justice to the appearance of this car. Jaguar does such a great job with colors that black seems like a waste.

im_brentwood · March 2003

Sapphire Blue!

I just turned in a Sapphire/Ivory 4.0 that I loved.. I didnt drive it much tho >:(

ALso looking at a Sapphire one right now, look stunning IMO..

Bill

jagdean · March 2003

Sapphire is great, just sold a 2000 that was beautiful.....now don't get me started on Pacific....there is a reason all 3 of my unsold new 2002's are pacific blue.

ceksc · March 2003

Some of the lighter colors (pacific blue) may be a bit feminine.

kinley · March 2003

wcollins · March 2003

I am an owner of a fully equipped 4.0 2000 S-Type. Problems from day one. Not to get lengthy, but here's a few: New engine, two transmissions, one gearbox, new a/c unit, new heating unit, phone rewiring, towed 4 times. The latest and second occurrence, Jaguar response center is constantly receiving airbag deployment signals. Contacted dealership, was told they don't know what to do, I am the only one they encountered with this problem. They indicated the call for help from their troubleshooting department at Jag HQ was no help. They don't know what to do, but I could bring it in. They kept my car a month the last time and refused then, and refused now to supply me a free loaner. Call Jaguar Corporate, they tell me tough luck they can't help me. It doesn't matter that they didn't fix it right the first time. I have learned to live with the chronic steering wheel shakes, and the banging suspension that has to be adjusted every 3 or 4 months. Am I being unreasonable to think if a dealership fail to fix a problem correctly they should at least accomdate you with a free loaner? That's the least they can do. Not to mentioned dealerships don't even want Jags as trade-in. They wholesale most of them. Also have you check how fast they depreciate. I paid close to $58,000, it's trade in value now is somewhere in the neighborhood $18,000 to $20,000.

I'm sorry, I can't agree with your love for this car. Give me a Lexus. I respect my money too much to buy another Jag.

ceksc · March 2003

Have had NO problems with my S type. Clearly you got a lemon and Jaguar/ dealer should be trying to do more for you. As for depreciation, you should have known before you bought it that like Land Rovers, Jaguars drop like rocks. That is why I would never buy one-- I lease mine. They can be a great deal on the used market.

rea98d · March 2003

"two transmissions, one gearbox,"

Uh, aren't a transmission and a gearbox two different words for the same thing?

kinley · March 2003

for the "Lemon Law" provisions?

saifu · March 2003

As some of you may recall i was in the market for a S-type last september/october.I have always loved the S-type's styling but i was always unsure about its reliability.I talked to several people here and then i finally bought myself a late 2000 4.0 Black/Black with sports package,navigation system,voice command system,premium sound,heated seats and sun roof(every option except parktronic).The car had about 28,000 miles on it when i bought it.
I must say since then the car has behaved great.NO issues whatsoever with the car and i do love it.I feel that Jaguar does'nt perhaps have the consistency in their assembly lines to make all their cars flawless.Clearly as we can from the posts here, some cars have many problems but i consider myself fortunate for getting a good unit. I just had one question and one last comment.Since my car has a sports package does that mean that it has a different suspension from the standard S-type??I thought the only thing different would be the wheels. The comment is that the S-type is a great car unless it is a lemon and unfortunately Jaguar ends up making for too many lemons...but if you do get your hands on the right unit trust me you will enjoy it MUCH more then any boring Lexus.

Jaguar S-Type

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