Good day all!

I’ve been looking at these Stypes for quite some time now and I think I’m ready to pull the trigger. If I don’t, it’ll be simply because I got an XF instead.

Anyways, what should I look out for? I always look for deal breakers so any guidance is greatly appreciated. What are the best years?

is the V6 even worth looking at?

 

V6 / V8 - does not really matter.
V6: cam covers are made of magnesium, i.e. they self-destruct by design due to electro-corrosion.
V8 cam covers are made of plastic like the X308 V8 for all I know: Those self destruct by design due to the heat in the engine compartment.
But that should not put you off.

And I see you have already a X308 - if the 2001 is the same as the 1998, you made already acquaintance with plastic cam covers.

I'd be looking for a S-Type from after the second facelift, which was some time in 2004.

In the US you might be able to catch a STR for a bargain-price - which is sadly not possible down under.
I think STRs started in 2002, after the first facelift. If I had the opportunity to catch an STR, I would probably also go with a 2002 one - 2004 and later would be even better.

 

Yeah, recently bought mine -- wanted second face-lift; 4.2 NA V-8. But mainly a car that was around 50k miles, one owner and WHICH WAS CARED FOR. I ended up with a 2008, "Satin". Looks pretty much showroom. Happy with it.

 

If you do get an earlier 4.0 V8 S Type, they are a great Jag, but do verify the 4.0 engine has been updated with the latest metal versions (not the earlier cheap plastic type) of the timing chain tensioners/guides.

 

2003 on in North America has a superior transmission, better engine management on the V-6 and a much nicer interior/dash arrangement. (No offense to those who own pre initial "facelift" models, of course.)

 

As a 2002 owner, I am very offended.

One thing you guys got which is great is the updated intake manifold. Having to remove in order to change the passenger side plugs sucks.

But being a Ford man and Duratec fanboy, I do prefer having the older 5R55E transmission and the V6. Just what I’m used to.

My two cents…be careful if considering anything that’s been sitting for a while. S Types do not like to sit for extended periods of time. Some owners do not use their S as a DD and they really should be driven regularly.

(This is true of any car…they are made to be driven, not sit. But it seems the S Types are less tolerable versus others)