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Jaguar XJ-Series

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Comments

  • ausiejagausiejag Member Posts: 4
    Hi, I am experiencing the same problem with my 2002 XJ8, Thermal fans stay on for up to 5 mins on high , after engine is turned off.My mechanic has replaced the engine heat sensor unit that communicates to the ECU which in turn controls when & what speed the thermal fans are running, however this has not fixed the problem. I am advised that I need to replace the ECU , very expensive. Was the replacement of the Thermostat a different process to what I have had done?? & what cost was involved ? Sounds much easier & cheaper tha a whole new ECU. Any advice would be appreciated. MAny Thanks
    Tony
  • ausiejagausiejag Member Posts: 4
    Hi, I am experiencing a problem with my 2002 XJ8, Thermal fans stay on for up to 5 mins on high , after engine is turned off.My mechanic has replaced the engine heat sensor unit that communicates to the ECU which in turn controls when & what speed the thermal fans are running, however this has not fixed the problem. I am advised that I need to replace the ECU , very expensive. Was the replacement of the Thermostat a different process to what I have had done?? & what cost was involved ? Sounds much easier & cheaper tha a whole new ECU. Any advice would be appreciated. MAny Thanks
    Tony
    Messages
  • tagmantagman Member Posts: 8,441
    I have an 95' XJ6 VDP and today I drove an 2004 XJ8. Thinking to replace the XJ6 with the new XJ, but after driving it today I'm not sure about it any more.
    From outside it looks bigger but from inside, I can swear that is no different(in size) that my old XJ6. It fills that I sit taller. The trunk is definitely bigger(deeper) since they relocated the gas tank.
    It fills fast, but I didn't fill that way faster filling that I was expected after my XJ6.

    Was this at a dealership? I'm guessing not, only because there was no one present that was educated enough to point out the many differences between the cars.

    The interior room on the new generation is much improved, and it makes no sense that you did not notice it. The pesky handbrake is no longer an issue, and the headroom is volumes more. While the new generation car retained much of the "look" of the old generation (a subject of much debate), there is hardly anything that is the same between the two.

    The new generation advanced aluminum car is truly a much better automobile. If you had been at a dealership, the salesman should have been able to tell you a very long list of differences, and even been able to point them out to you so you could see them. Since you have the old model, you could easily have done a side by side comparison.

    It sounds like you have an "impression" of the '04, as opposed to solid information about it.

    I suggest a visit to your local Jaguar dealer, and see if they have an '04, and an educated salesman who can properly demonstrate and explain the car for you. At that point, your decision (whatever it might be) will be based upon solid information.

    TagMan
  • jaglover2jaglover2 Member Posts: 9
    I had a similar problem with my 2001 XJ8 with the fan staying on long after the car was turned off. The dealer replaced the thermostat, checked for coolant leaks and bled air line and that took care of the problem. It has been more than two years and it is fine.
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    Hi, I am a newbie in this forum and would appreciate some advice or help.
    I am looking into a 2002 or 2003 XJ8 either Sport or VDP but I am little bit worried about reliability and cost of repair/service. Can anybody give me some advice? I currently have two MB's (C280, ML350) and did not really have any problems. How does the Jag compare? How are the Jaguar dealers in terms of their service? So far my experience with MB had been great but I heard from other people who got srewed.
    I saw a few XJ from 2002/3 with 30-50000 miles in price range of $20-24000. Does that seem reasonable? Also, do you guys recommend to get one with the Jaguar certified warranty?
    Can anybody recommend a good Jag dealer in New England (I live in the Danbury area)?

    I would appreciate any comments, help or advice!

    Thank, Matt

    You can also email me: matthes_us@yahoo.com
  • k2usak2usa Member Posts: 5
    Matt-

    If you can, go for an '04. Very significant changes for 04 in build (all aluminum frame saving +/- 500 lbs) inertior headroom, nav system etc. I had liiked at 03's, but saw a huge difference in '04's. I managed to get a '04 XJR with 64000 for 28K last fall. It is an amazing car. 10,000 miles later, no problems, great service (Ray Cantena in NJ) and from everything I hear and have experienced, this is a bullet proof model. I'd look for 30-40K miles in an XJR and expect to pay 33-35, 28 if you look hard. You will still have a year and some miles on the warranty to make you comfortable.

    Good Luck,

    Ken
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    Ken,

    thanks for the info.
    Is the '04 really that much better of a car? I knew that they completely redesigned the XJ on '04, but is it really worth spending $10K more (which I don't have)? I actually found a couple of '03 VDP's that are very nicely equipped even with GPS nav.
    My greatest worry really was reliability and service.

    Thanks,

    Matt
  • british_roverbritish_rover Member Posts: 8,502
    The Current Gen XJ8(2004 to present) was the most reliable car in the UK according to one survey. I don't remember which year won the award but I think it was 2005. If you look hard enough you won't have to pay too much more for a 2004 XJ8.
  • hofiiihofiii Member Posts: 16
    Hi Matt,

    I bought a 98 VDP about a year and half ago with 86,000 miles on it for 12,000 and have had nothing but pure enjoyment from the beauty. These cars are taken care of by thier owners and from 1998 on, the reliability issue has pretty much gone away. The electrical issues that existed before have been eliminated because of Fords involvement. You'll love a 98-03 well taken care of Vanden Plas. They are the ultimate driving experience.
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    Thanks for the info hofiii!
    Did you get any additional warranty for your '98 VDP? I heard that a lot of people have issues with not enough headroom in the '98-'03 XJs. Do you have any problems?

    Thanks,

    Matt
  • tagmantagman Member Posts: 8,441
    Matt - I saw your question on the High-End forum, and I answered you there.

    Just to be sure, I will say the same thing here. I want to make it clear as possible that if you can swing it, GET THE '04 OR NEWER!

    Take the time to learn the differences... as similar as they look, the new generation cars are completely different from the older generation. They are absolutely better, without a doubt. Yes, you might find a nice older model, it's true, but the difference in the reliability statistic is huge, and the car is much better designed and engineered.

    Prove it to yourself by looking closely, driving them, and studying up a bit. You'll see for yourself.

    TagMan
  • hofiiihofiii Member Posts: 16
    I did not purchase a warranty. I drive the Jag just for fun and on long trips. Not much stop and go driving. I'm 5'9" and weigh 165lbs and have no problems with roominess. The Jag really isn't designed for large frame people especially in the front seats. It is by far the best driving car outside of the Rolls Royce that I've ever driven.
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    Hey TagMan - thanks for the insight.

    I saw a few '04 with reasonable mileage in the price range of $25-30K (used car dealers). Do you recommend to get one from the Jaguar certified pre-owned program (those tend to be a lot more expensive)? Do you know if you can get an '04 and then buy an extended warrant from Jaguar?
    I have been reading stuff about aftermarket warranties. Are those any good?

    I'll take your advice and spend some time driving the '03 and '04 to see the difference.

    Thanks,

    Matt
  • tagmantagman Member Posts: 8,441
    matt - you're welcome. Firstly, it is conceivable to see if there is any remaining factory warranty on the '04 vehicle. Also, consider the Certified program. Get as much coverage as you can without blowing a massive amount of money, and be sure what is and isn't covered if you go aftermarket. Some of those products are worthless, while others might actually provide some protection. But, bottom line, you really should have a warranty if at all possible.

    Once you start looking carefully and studying these cars, you will absolutely learn for yourself about the difference in the '04 and beyond XJ. You will love the looks of all the years, but the '04 and beyond will give you engineering and reliability improvements that you will not want to miss out on.

    You may possibly get conflicting information here (I hope you do not, but it's possible), so that is why you owe it to yourself to learn for yourself as much as possible before you purchase one. I have no doubt that you will discover the significant difference in the '04 and beyond newer generation XJ Jags.

    I noticed that Lexusguy also gave you that recommendation in the High-end forum. He knows a LOT about Jags and cars in general. His posts carry lots of credibility.

    Good luck.

    TagMan
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    What is your guys experience with the Jag dealership(s) especially in terms of service, responsiveness and friendlieness?
    I had really mixed ones with Mercedes, one was really great and the other one really sucked.

    Thanks, Matt
  • hofiiihofiii Member Posts: 16
    I've talked to people that have only had their Jags serviced at the dealership since they were new and they like the one here in Greenville, SC. I haven't had to take my VDP in for service since buying it 02/06, just oil changes. I would expect that the dealership in your area would be fine, if your still under warranty. Outside of warranty, it's up to you, but you would probably save some money if you used a good independent import mechanic familiar with high end luxury cars. You shouldn't have a problem finding an enthusiatic Jag mechanic or you can use the dealership. They are just going to be more expensive.
  • ausiejagausiejag Member Posts: 4
    Hi
    I purchased a 2002 XJ8 in 2004 & have enjoyed it ever since, however the following issues may need attention:-
    1. If the thermal fan stays on for 5 mins after you stop & the car is not over heating then it will most likely be the Thermostat, this is easy & cheap to fix by your mech.
    2.For 1997 - 1999 Jag V8 Engines ( these engines could be in cars built up to 2002/03) & have last 6 digits of VIN numbers between 812256 - F41862 or 001001 -A24195 , the timing tensioner chain may be plastic & will have to be replaced before the engine gets to 30,000 miles . If this chain breaks whilst driving teh car it can destroy the engine. See a Jag specialist , most are aware of the problem. Good luck ..............Tony
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    Hi,
    was wondering if anybody out there has any experience with buying a Jag (or any car for that matter) on ebay. It seems like there might be some great deals out there but I am a little bit concerned about it.
    It would be great it if you could share your experience(s).

    Thanks, Matt
  • k2usak2usa Member Posts: 5
    Matt-

    I bought mine on e-bay last year. I was lucky that the guy was literally 8 miles from my house, and a professional wholesaler. He would buy high end, high mile off lease cars and knew what to look for (he didn't want a lemon. He had good feedback, and I was able to test drive the car. (I had already driven on at a dealership). In September of '04 I drove an XJR with 24,000 miles at the dealer, who wanted $54,500. Five days later I drove the one I got , 64,500 miles won on e-bay for $28,000. I got all service recods from day one from the NJ dealer, no real issues with the car and I am very happy.

    My reco- find a no reserve car with medium to high miles (I saw one with 54,000 miles go for $26,000 on E-bay about 3 weeks ago.) Get as much info as you can, service records if they can provide them, as soon as auction starts. Check sellers feedback. Expect to pay about $28,000 for an '04 (lots of them have come off lease and ther are 15 or so on e-bay now (there is an '04 with 62,000 miles for a buy it now of $28,900). Good luck,

    Ken
  • patpat Member Posts: 10,421
    You'll want to check out this discussion: Purchasing a Vehicle On-line (eBay, etc.) :)
  • blckislandguyblckislandguy Member Posts: 1,150
    Thanks to tagman and others I've gotten educated in the world of Jags. We are looking at used '05's because unlike the '04's most are long wheel base. While I do see a lot of used '05 XJLs, the VDP model is rare. I've seen one at a local dealer in a good color combination (black with champaign interior) for 47K. That seems high. How much more should I pay for a VDP?

    Besides the picnic trays in the back (believe me, they will never, ever be used), piping on the seats, maybe different wheels, and some lambswool rugs what else do you get with a VDP? There is about a 7K difference in MSRP that I just don't understand.

    Negotiating strategy. I think that a smart used XJ shopper would ask in chronological order for a detailed carfax, service records, existence of original manuals in glove box, warranty info, if CPO'ed, could they throw in those great looking XJR wheels for summer use for a modest upcharge, if no, then ask if there are any extra winter wheels available for n/c back in the Parts Department,and is there free loaner on service work. What did I leave out?

    (Speaking of piping, it looks like all '07s regardless of model of XJ come with piping.)
  • british_roverbritish_rover Member Posts: 8,502
    Here you go...

    Comparison of the various XJ types for 2005.

    XJ8 VDP VS XJ8L VS XJ8
  • blckislandguyblckislandguy Member Posts: 1,150
    British Rover,

    Thanks very much. I am familiar with Cars.com but not how to do this. Thanks for showing me.

    Incidentally, after scrolling through the comparison the ONLY difference I could find that they think exists between an XJL and a VDP is that the VDP has 2 more adjustments (totaling 10) for the front passenger seats and 2 more sterio speakers (again totaling 10). I guess the picnic tables and lambs wool rugs didn't seem significant to them either.
  • british_roverbritish_rover Member Posts: 8,502
    The VDP has a trunk mounted CD player as well. I know the leather quality and quantity is also better in the VDP.

    Really though you shouldn't pay too much more for a VDP over a XJL. Without even looking at the leasing programs for the two cars I know the XJL had a better residual then the VDP. Those kind of packages never add value on the wholesale/used car side.
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    Usually the buyer of a Jaguar VDP is not too concerned about having a lambs wool rug because he already got his "Sheepskin" a long time ago. ;)
  • mstendermstender Member Posts: 17
    I was wondering if anybody out there had any experience or info about texascarsdirect.com and/or luxurymotors.com. It seems like they have some incredible deals on some XJ's, maybe to good to be true. Are they reputable dealers?

    Thanks, Matt :confuse:
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    What I like is texascarsdirect has the testicular fortitude to include the price whereas Luxurymotors wants you to call for the price.

    There is only one Jag dealer in OR and he wants you to call to get the mileage and the price. :P
  • tagmantagman Member Posts: 8,441
    Thanks to tagman and others I've gotten educated in the world of Jags.

    I just stopped by and saw your post. Thanks for the nice words of appreciation.

    BTW, I think it is fairly obvious that if you are truly looking to attach a dollar "value" on the VDP, that it is not "worth" it from a purely fiscal perspective. But in the "prestige" sense, it is worth it to some buyers. Afterall, it is the highest version, and beyond the few upgrades that the VDP badge signifies, those picnic tables particularly represent a certain historical significance, IMO. But I am not making a recommendation in either direction, just giving my opinion. Each buyer should feel comfortable to make his own choice. Only from a personal perspective, I believe that especially in the used market, the VDP could more easily be worth it, but in the new market, the dollar stretch might be more difficult to rationalize.

    For what it's worth, mine (actually the wife's primarily) is a loaded '05 VDP. Notable options... it has the improved '06 front wire mesh grill (it easily replaces the '05 grill and it's MUCH better looking), factory 5-star chrome wheels, rear-seat DVD entertainment package (headrest color monitors), and of course, Bluetooth.

    TagMan
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    With the 5" longer wheelbase, how does the ride compare with the XJ8?

    Having driven large cars for forty years, it seems the longer wheelbase would be worth the added cost. Personally, the XJ8L would be a First choice as the toys are not desired. :)
  • blckislandguyblckislandguy Member Posts: 1,150
    I don't have much seat time in an XJ but drove one extensively a day or so ago. I noticed several things right away that were turn offs to a guy coming out of 20 years of Jeep Grand Cherokees/various pickups/Volvos/Cayennes.

    1) The initial tip in on the throttle was very sensitive

    2) The steering was very light and overly boosted

    3) The long wheelbase did seem quite long in backing up.

    I did like though, surprisingly, the optional power rear window shade. The sales person said that she used hers at night to diminsh the glare of headlights behind her.

    Net/Net: it made me miss my Cayenne!
  • tagmantagman Member Posts: 8,441
    Which model Cayenne? The reason I ask is that I was given a loaner when my 911 was getting a detail that the dealership owed me, and the Cayenne couldn't get out of its own way... it was gutless... and I was surprised, of course. I would guess you had the larger engine.

    TagMan
  • lzolidislzolidis Member Posts: 6
    I bought my 2000 XJ8 there and found it very easy to buy my car. However, two years later my dealer discovered a really bad engine sludge problem that the extended warranty company used to void coverage for repairs. I have been meticulous about caring for the car, including giving oil changes more frequently than the manufacturer's recommendations. When the problem came up, I asked TCD if it had access to the original maintenance records for the car (which, like the others at TCD, had been a Jaguar lease car before I bought it). TCD never responded.

    On the flip side, another friend bought her S-type at TCD and has had no problems.
  • lzolidislzolidis Member Posts: 6
    I absolutely cannot stand the dealer in Fort Worth, TX, called Autobahn. One of their service managers is a jerk. They take forever to even look at the car when I bring it in for a service appointment - - I'm talking two days or more after I rush in for an early morning appointment time! And, of late, every time I've taken the car to them for a repair it's been returned to me in worse shape than when I dropped it off. Any recommendations for a reliable Jaguar servicer in the area?
  • lzolidislzolidis Member Posts: 6
    You probably received an answer to this some time ago, but I just saw your message today. I have had something similar happen with my 2000 XJ8.

    The ASC not available and TRAC not available lights came on when I was driving last week, triggering "Failsafe Engine Mode" as an immediate response. The dealership service center tells me the car needs a new throttle body assembly at a cost of $1550. They looked at the exact same problem 8 months ago and replaced a module (for $1700). If you're still having the problems you described, you might want to ask about the throttle body or the module.
  • lpproperlpproper Member Posts: 1
    I have just acquired an 89 in really nice shape, but needed new pads and rotors all around for Virginia state safety inspection. Simple job, but no brake pedal afterwards. Hydraulic booster reservoir low but filled up after brake job.

    Can't find any reference books or anything to help.
  • jaqqededgejaqqededge Member Posts: 1
    If you need reference books, go to http://www.jag-lovers.org/
    They have three great on-line books, you can download for free. Not Chilton or anything like that. These were written by
    Jaq owners for Jaq owners.
  • denhamdenham Member Posts: 76
    Note: I just purchased a 98 XJ8 with 134,000 miles
    the car is show room condition and has all records
    and runs good.I have read that the early 98 and some
    99 has had problems with the timing tensioners holding
    the timing chains. I ask should I change these tensioners?
    The car runs fine but now I am concerned, and yet I have a shop and can do this myself but it takes time!
    Dennis60@bellsouth.net
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    How do you know they weren't changed by one of the previous owners? Not all records are complete over a ten year period.
  • topspin628topspin628 Member Posts: 373
    I am exiting my Lexus LS430 lease in a few months and I'm looking for a new ride. The XJ is a beautiful car and I'm going to take a test drive soon. I have it in the mix with the E Class MB and the 535 BMW both of which come with all wheel drive. My questions are:
    Can the XJ handle snow equally as well as my LS 430? Both are rear wheel drive with traction control and stability control and all season tires. I never had an issue with the LS.

    Are the front seats comfortable for long distance cruising?
    I found the lexus seats a bit flat and not as good as the Germans in this area.

    Is reliability still very strong? In the most recent JD Powers ratings it seemed that they slipped a bit.

    It's one of the rare cars out today that is truly "special" in my book so I'm going to give it a long look. But I need to live with it daily and want to be happy once the honeymoon is over.

    Thank you for any and all input/ownership experience on the updated body style for the XJ.
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    The XJ is the most balanced design of the group. As for snow driving - on the level it will be just fine, but uphill, an all wheel drive would be more appropriate. As an Alpine skier, I've learned it is not so much the car I'm driving, it is the other inexperienced driver that is the safety concern.

    Take a look at the XJ8L for it is longer with more back seat room and is "special" in my book as well. :)
  • britcrlvrbritcrlvr Member Posts: 83
    A year ago I was comparing a used Bentley to a new Jaguar XJ8L. the verdict, I thought the jag was quieter, smoother, and essentially the same car without the glamour. I chose the jag. I have yet to be dissappointed. I wake up in the morning, and feel rewarded to enter the driver's seat. the cabin just seems fresh. As weird as it sounds, this is the car where I feel totally relaxed and it even lacks newer technological features found on the BMW 7 series or Mercedes S class. The front seats never get tiring and the rear seats rate 11 out of 10. I have had no problems with car, and I have 16000 miles on the car. My only complaint that the car did not have a std cargo net, nitpicky, I know, but after talking with the dealership they installed it at no charge. One option I wish I had selected on the car is rear window passenger sunshades. Other than that, the car looks just as good when it was new.
  • fyne2fyne2 Member Posts: 1
    I live in the Chicago area, and am looking to buy a 1990 xj6 vanden plais from an owner in Quincy Massachusetts. It has 198k miles on it. Is it ok to drive this car from MA to IL?
  • topspin628topspin628 Member Posts: 373
    I was curious if there were any 08 owners who could share their experience. I like the new grill treatment. I took a long test drive and I still can't decide. I love the looks but there was a bit lacking in driving. It wasn't as smooth or quiet as my LS430. I did hear some intrusive road noise that I don't have in my LS. The steering seemed a bit light (kind of old style Buick like) and the car floated a bit. I drove the L which is a BIG car. What I liked was the styling in and out. The special feeling of being in a "rare" car- not as common place as the various BMW, MB, Lexus in my area. The engine growl when pressed hard was also a nice surprise although speed-wise I think my LS is still faster.
    Any comments from owners of recent XJ cars is appreciated.
    I may take it out for another spin.
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    I don't know what the price of the Jag is, but due to it's age and mileage, I'd place 1/3 of the purchase price in a bank escrow account in MA and if the car made it to IL without problems, call the bank and release that 1/3 to the seller.

    Any repair costs between MA & IL would be deducted from the escrow account.
  • denhamdenham Member Posts: 76
    Note: Was driving above 60mph and pushed the cruise control
    switch and then set speed, and the code Fail Safe Eng.Mode was
    on with amber color. I saw that the light was on the Sport Mode switch, and I pushed it and it went out, but could not get the cruise control switch light to come on.
    Drove home and restarted and all seems fine with no code
    showing. Could this code have came on because of the Sport Mode switch had been pushed? (Anyone know or have had this problem)
    dennis60@bellsouth.net
  • blckislandguyblckislandguy Member Posts: 1,150
    "Any repair costs between MA & IL would be deducted from the excrow account".

    Nice idea but even if the seller went for this deal, and no one should, on what is hopefully no more than a $3000 transaction, the $1000 hold back would hardly cover the highly probable towing of the damn thing off the Mass Pike up in the Berkshires, flatbedding it to the nearest Jag dealer (Albany?), and installing a new waterpump or alternator. Then you still have the rest of the trip to do!

    Geez, there have got to be better things to do with your time and money than to buy a 18 year old, 200K mile Jag from someone in Boston and then plan on driving it to Chicago.
  • euphoniumeuphonium Member Posts: 3,425
    Agree ;)
  • denhamdenham Member Posts: 76
    If the car is what you want after a test drive and condition
    why not buy? The age of most anything is condition, my house
    boat is a 1972 and looks like a 2002 as I have had it over 20
    years and take care of it, and the same is for a car. If it
    is what you want go for it, but check it out first.
    Dennis60@bellsouth.net
  • foster1foster1 Member Posts: 17
    IMO, the 1990 XJ6 is one of the least desirable XJ's you could buy. The styling was roundly criticized (causing the XJ to be redesigned back to its classic look in 1995). The mostly new mechanicals needed thorough sorting out by the Ford team (which they started in 1990 but didn't really finish until 1995). At least they switched from the terrible digital instruments back to round dials in 1990.
  • wshflwshfl Member Posts: 24
    The 1990 xj and others of its model were fraught with self-inflicted problems. (Jaguar engineers/designers, either didn't know or didn't care about what they were doing); so, the results are well known but the overall style of the car still had its litheness of line that has always attracted so many admirers. The last year for this feline look was 2004. Since then, the xj has developed a portly look to accomodate the increasing girth of North Americans. Now, it's just another BIG car. Maybe if they could recapture sporting feline look of the past, and continue its present quality, things would look up>
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