I am starting to research the XK8 to potentially purchase one. I have read about the Nikasil problems, timing chain problems and stalling problems. Anything else? Is there any way to diagnose these areas before buying a car? I am partial to the coupe, here in Oregon a solid top is a fuctional necessity. I figure that I can get into a 2000 model (champaign tastes, beer budget). As a personal observation I think that the XK8 is even better looking than the "E" type. I am looking forward to the day that I can walk out to the garage and find a shiny Jag, just waiting for me to turn ths key and take off.

 

Welcome to the group.

I don't know much about the V8s but I think the Nikisil "thing" isn't likely to be a problem at this point. If it's lasted this long it doesn't seem likely that it'll happen at all.

However, I think you'd need to look at 2001 model year or later to be absolutely safe.

I'd suggest posting directly to the XK8 section. There are plenty of guys there who can give you the real low down.

Cheers and welcome

DD

 

Welcome to the forum,

Excellent advice from Doug, head over and chat with the XK guys about your plans.

 

Hello and welcome to jaguarforums.com. I know that you are anxious to get started and we are anxious to meet you and talk about your car. We have a baseline / criteria that must be met before full access can be granted. Please enjoy the forum and be patient once the baseline has been satisfied full access will be granted. Please continue to post and accept my welcome to the forum.

Oh one other thing you need to put your car details in your signature. I am speaking of the Year, Make & Model. Without it you may not get the input you are looking for.

Please take a moment and read the information provided to you explaining the rules. Be patient and enjoy the site.

 

Welcome to the forum! Don't think that you can't afford a 2003 or newer. I bought mine a year ago and the seller was asking $14K. I talked him down to $13K and I've been loving it ever since. A lot of used car dealers really overprice these cars hoping that someone will buy it without researching the true market value. Also, you'll most likely be better off buying directly from the owner, rather than at a used car dealer. Don't rush into a purchase. And since these cars are rather rare, be prepared to travel to buy it.

 

Hello and welcome to the forum. I know you will find invaluable information here and enjoy interacting with the forum members. I bought a 2003 XKR with 37000 miles and have had no problems in my one year + of ownership. Glad to have you aboard!

 

Medieval
Welcome to the Forum.
Don't be scared of the Nikasil, water pump, or tensioners There are great values with the first series XK8's especially if your mechanically inclined. Tensioners, water pumps, hydraulic hoses, these items can be purchased for under $600.00 and can be a good bargaining chip when it comes to negotiating the price down. Check the XK8 XKR section and read the sticky's for the common problems with these cars, and good luck

 

welcome aboard medieval

You might find the off topic good for fun, maybe check out the mug shot thread and add yours?
Some good guys and great techs, top vendors and more to come....all good

In the meantime I've upgraded you manually to full forum access so you can better view the site