I’m 22 and I’m about to receive enough money to get a $20-30k (won’t be all of my money, that’s just my limit) used jaguar. I’m madly in love with the x358’s (dream car) but it seems like those cars are money pits (most people are telling me $5K a year and that’s with doing most of the work your self). I was ready to learn more about cars so I could do All repairs and bring that cost down but I recently read that the 350 and 358 are not water proof and can’t be driven in the rain or a car wash and I need a somewhat reliable daily driver.

I was looking into F types and XKRs but I don’t think that would be a smart decision when considering insurance costs, and practicality later down the line (when I have kids one day).

ive read that the 2010-2012 X351’s have suspension and sunroof issues and that most issues are worked out by 2013. I’ve seen multiple people recommend the 2013 and only that year. Do the 2014-2019 have issues?

so far I’ve found that the water pump and MAF Sensor will go out in less than 50k miles and that’s it. I’ve found a few 351’s at 150k miles and had no other issues according to the car fax. Changing both of those things sound easy (I’ve done both on GM cars) so right now I’m under the impression the x351 is more reliable than my Buick LeSabre.

Taking reliability into account I think my best choice is a 351. I plan on doing the work my self unless it’s too complicated (like suspension work, doing that on any car scares me). To keep a 351 well maintained should I bring it in every 6 months to get everything checked? What do y’all do?

I also really want massaging seats from a 2015 or newer (doesn’t use air bladders, I have a bad back) and that’s only on the XJL Portfolio right? I’ve watched a few videos on 2015-19 XJL Portfolios and the one thing I don’t like is how it’s a LWB but doesn’t have any luxury features in the back seat like adjustable back seats and tv screens, was that an optional feature when buying? I’m under the impression that portfolios are all out fully loaded with everything and then some.

what about body kits? I’m not a fan of the rear end and can only find cheap eBay kits and a Arden kit that looks like stock to me.

is there a custom shop that fixes the 358s and converts them to all Ford parts or something to make them reliable? Kinda like that shop that takes new camaros and converts them into unofficial new firebirds.

what trim level should I be looking for when it comes to a 351? Massaging seats are a must have and I’d like to have luxury options in the back seat as mentioned earlier.

 

Hello,
Someone will be along shortly to direct you to the correct section(s) where you can get help and advice.
Welcome to the forums from ElinorB.
(';')

 

Welcome to the forums AJ170,

Jaguars are built in England. It rains most days here and we don't leave them at home! Reading forums like this, you will probably think Jaguars are unreliable because most come here with an issue rather than to write about their faultless vehicle. Read posts to understand the regular issues (although you already seem to have a good idea of these) but don't get the idea they all happen to every vehicle.

1. service history is absolutely critical and preferably backed with with a thick folder of receipts for work and parts - treat any gaps with great suspicion.
2. get hold of the Owner's Handbook for a vehicle you are considering purchasing and spend time going through EVERY switch, setting and function. Apparently minor faults can turn out to be very expensive to fix.
3. Jaguars are NOT cheap transport. You will save a huge amount by doing servicing and repairs yourself but parts are expensive. Specialist repairs for major work is very expensive.

Follow this link https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/xj-x351-53/ to the X351 forum for help, advice and information. You can also use the US Midwest Region forum by following this link https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/us-midwest-39/ to find other members in your region.

Please read the guidance for new members ( https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/n...ned-up-241802/ ) which answers many of the most frequent questions about getting started.

Enjoy the forums and the search for your Jaguar.

Graham

 

Welcome aboard.

 

Welcome to the forums.

 

Welcome to the Forums.

Graham has nailed it mostly.

MY opinion, the later the car, the more electronics, the more the previous owner slacked off on the "little" things, knowing the lease or whatever was coming up.

ALL mine have NEVER let me down, and yes, they be older than what you are looking at. My current 2010 X Type has a Gremlin in the electronics somewhere, and is driving me back to the drink, so maybe time for me to back step a few years, but I am OLD now, and you are 50 years younger, oops.

Every car has its issues, and they make the headlines.
One of my "older" V12's is sitting at 655000kms, and still thunders regularly down the highway, not bad I reckon.

Sunroof leaks, YEP, my MK VII did that, so I took the bungs out of the floor, and let the water out, I was a teenager, and it worked for me.

Read all, and take your time.

Good luck.

 

Welcome to the forum AJ170,

Good to have you with us.
Enjoy the forum.

If you haven't done so already you should add your car details to your signature to help others to help you.

 

welcome to the forum - good luck in your search and enjoy!!