Looking to buy my first Jaguar
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Looking to buy my first Jaguar
I am thinking about buying my first Jaguar (model S Type R).
My last two vehicles were BMW 540i six speeds with manual transmissions. I've really enjoyed these these cars (raced both) but I'm looking for a change. I'm looking to make a switch after driving essentially the same vehicle for the last eight years.
The Jaguar S Type R seems to be a nice option for me since I still need a 4-door car. The purchase price to power component is very attactive. I'll miss the manual transmission option on BMW but this Jag seems to be a nice driving and FAST car.
I recently test drove a 2003 model S Type R with 39K and enjoyed the drive. So far I've looked at 2003 to 2005 models. Please provide me with some advice. Where are the weak areas in these vehicles?
[ul][*]Electrical ? Audio, NAV and Lights[*]Engine? Seals, Waterpump, Radiator, Gaskets[*]Transmission? Found info regarding software updates to correct jerky trans[*]Body? Body panels becoming loose or discolored[*]Interior? Buttons breaking, leather ripping, door seals[*]Brakes? Rotors, Pads
[/ul]Any Jaguar car clubs in Maryland, Virginia or DC area?
Thank you for any information you can provide.
Kind regards,
Bryan
My last two vehicles were BMW 540i six speeds with manual transmissions. I've really enjoyed these these cars (raced both) but I'm looking for a change. I'm looking to make a switch after driving essentially the same vehicle for the last eight years.
The Jaguar S Type R seems to be a nice option for me since I still need a 4-door car. The purchase price to power component is very attactive. I'll miss the manual transmission option on BMW but this Jag seems to be a nice driving and FAST car.
I recently test drove a 2003 model S Type R with 39K and enjoyed the drive. So far I've looked at 2003 to 2005 models. Please provide me with some advice. Where are the weak areas in these vehicles?
[ul][*]Electrical ? Audio, NAV and Lights[*]Engine? Seals, Waterpump, Radiator, Gaskets[*]Transmission? Found info regarding software updates to correct jerky trans[*]Body? Body panels becoming loose or discolored[*]Interior? Buttons breaking, leather ripping, door seals[*]Brakes? Rotors, Pads
[/ul]Any Jaguar car clubs in Maryland, Virginia or DC area?
Thank you for any information you can provide.
Kind regards,
Bryan
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Posts: 3,780
Likes: 45
RE: Looking to buy my first Jaguar
Interior, just the A/C Vents chrome center thing falls off and Yes the tranny is problematic if you don't do fluid changes. The are sealed for life so you would have to take it to a shop and PAY UP! Otherwise a really nice and FAST car with great comfort and difficulty keeping the tires on the asphalt!
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RE: Looking to buy my first Jaguar
dadstoy,
I just recently purchased an '05 S-Type VDP Edition. Although not supercharged like the R, it does have the 4.2L V8. As of yet, having driven less than 1000miles on it, I have found zero problems. When I purchased the vehicle it had close to 19,500 miles. It now has a little over 20K. I just took it in to the local Jag dealership ASAP for the 20K service and had them look the car over thoroughly. They found nothing wrong, although they did perform a recall that was out for my VIN.
I live in Pittsburgh, so the weather has pretty much sucked in the past month or so...but surprisingly the Jag has handled itself quite well considering there is a V8 pushing a RWD. I had winter tires put on and for safety and peace of mind put some weight in the trunk towards either sides.
I did a bit of research before I bought the S-Type and the consensus was that the pre-'03 models were not up to par with what people expected of Jag. So, in line with that assumption, you should be good to go.
As for your specific questions I can answer them with what little knowledge I may have from my '05 VDP:
[ul][*]Electrical:[ul][*]Audio: Alpine stereo all around in mine. And it seems to put out great quality music and can really thump out some bass if that is your cup of tea.[*]Nav: touch screen and incredibly accurate. I had a Toyota/Lexus nav before this and although this one comparatively isn't as high-res and lacks some extensive (and mostly ornate) features, it beats the heck out of my last one in accuracy and intuitiveness.[*]Lights: I have the auto-leveling Xenon headlights and boy are they a treat! I love them! I have them set to "Auto" for dusk-sensing so they come on whenever the car senses it is dark outside. So far no problems. And my fiance loves when they reset their level when you turn the car on (they come on, move all the way down, all the way up, then reset to default location).[/ul][*]Engine: I am not really an under-the-hood sort of guy so I couldn't tell you much here. But all seems well as far as performance is concerned on my end![*]Transmission: The "Lurch" seems to be the killer in this category. Although I have not experienced it first-hand in my vehicle, I have read about it a lot. I am not too afraid though because I have another 30K miles to go on the factory warranty and if this problem appears, I'll be off to my friendly neighborhood Jag dealer.[*]Body: No discoloration or looseness on mine. Mine is black though and being the OCD-ish person that I am, it sucks at staying clean...hahaha. But of course, that goes for any black car[*]Interior: One word FANTASTIC! I am not sure if I have a different interior than others due to the VDP edition, but mine is beaufitul. Black leather all around. The seats are power-adjustable in every which way; from bottom cushion length to 4-way adjustable lumbar support. I love the memory settings and the fact that you can power-adjust and save settings for mirrors, steering wheel, pedals, and seat. The interior lights are subtle and efficient, no bulbs have burnt out on me as of yet.[*]Brakes: no problems here. Strong and smooth
[/ul]
I just recently purchased an '05 S-Type VDP Edition. Although not supercharged like the R, it does have the 4.2L V8. As of yet, having driven less than 1000miles on it, I have found zero problems. When I purchased the vehicle it had close to 19,500 miles. It now has a little over 20K. I just took it in to the local Jag dealership ASAP for the 20K service and had them look the car over thoroughly. They found nothing wrong, although they did perform a recall that was out for my VIN.
I live in Pittsburgh, so the weather has pretty much sucked in the past month or so...but surprisingly the Jag has handled itself quite well considering there is a V8 pushing a RWD. I had winter tires put on and for safety and peace of mind put some weight in the trunk towards either sides.
I did a bit of research before I bought the S-Type and the consensus was that the pre-'03 models were not up to par with what people expected of Jag. So, in line with that assumption, you should be good to go.
As for your specific questions I can answer them with what little knowledge I may have from my '05 VDP:
[ul][*]Electrical:[ul][*]Audio: Alpine stereo all around in mine. And it seems to put out great quality music and can really thump out some bass if that is your cup of tea.[*]Nav: touch screen and incredibly accurate. I had a Toyota/Lexus nav before this and although this one comparatively isn't as high-res and lacks some extensive (and mostly ornate) features, it beats the heck out of my last one in accuracy and intuitiveness.[*]Lights: I have the auto-leveling Xenon headlights and boy are they a treat! I love them! I have them set to "Auto" for dusk-sensing so they come on whenever the car senses it is dark outside. So far no problems. And my fiance loves when they reset their level when you turn the car on (they come on, move all the way down, all the way up, then reset to default location).[/ul][*]Engine: I am not really an under-the-hood sort of guy so I couldn't tell you much here. But all seems well as far as performance is concerned on my end![*]Transmission: The "Lurch" seems to be the killer in this category. Although I have not experienced it first-hand in my vehicle, I have read about it a lot. I am not too afraid though because I have another 30K miles to go on the factory warranty and if this problem appears, I'll be off to my friendly neighborhood Jag dealer.[*]Body: No discoloration or looseness on mine. Mine is black though and being the OCD-ish person that I am, it sucks at staying clean...hahaha. But of course, that goes for any black car[*]Interior: One word FANTASTIC! I am not sure if I have a different interior than others due to the VDP edition, but mine is beaufitul. Black leather all around. The seats are power-adjustable in every which way; from bottom cushion length to 4-way adjustable lumbar support. I love the memory settings and the fact that you can power-adjust and save settings for mirrors, steering wheel, pedals, and seat. The interior lights are subtle and efficient, no bulbs have burnt out on me as of yet.[*]Brakes: no problems here. Strong and smooth
[/ul]
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 228
Likes: 3
From: Dallas
RE: Looking to buy my first Jaguar
Did you take the plunge? That is a great car. I have a 2003 S-Type v8. I would loved to bought the R but too expensive for me at the time. The R is much faster. That being said, mine is very fast and drives great. I love the car.
To find a Jag club vistit www.jcna.com
I'm a member of the local Jag club here and it has been fun.
To find a Jag club vistit www.jcna.com
I'm a member of the local Jag club here and it has been fun.
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Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 441
Likes: 84
From: Silver Spring, Maryland
water pump & delayed reply to question from reddrawf
reddrawf
While searching water pump failure info for STRs, I just noticed a question for me in this old post. Sorry for the very late response.
In 2008, I did sell my 2000 BMW 540 6speed and purchased a 2005 STR with 7K+ miles. Initially my STR I had some alignment issues, but besides that, I've only performed standard maintenance such as installing a new battery, new brakes/rotors, cleaned air intake sys, change fluids and new filters - - - I did perform the DIY headlight repair a while ago...which is definitely a design flaw.
Today I noticed the smell of antifreeze and then saw steam/smoke a few moments later. Thank goodness I was less than 1/2 mile from my home. After running a coolant system pressure test, I noticed the problem was not a blown hose but rather the water pump had failed. It was extremely difficult to see where the coolant was coming from until the air filter box was removed. I leaned into the engine bay, placed my head where the air filter box was, looked to my left and saw a stream of coolant flowing from the bottom of the water pump's pulley. All the many many many hoses appear to be fine.
My STR just turned 50K miles and at this point I am trying to determine what hoses should be changed along with the coolant system flush, changing the water pump and thermostat.
What else should be done now that everything is torn apart?
While searching water pump failure info for STRs, I just noticed a question for me in this old post. Sorry for the very late response.
In 2008, I did sell my 2000 BMW 540 6speed and purchased a 2005 STR with 7K+ miles. Initially my STR I had some alignment issues, but besides that, I've only performed standard maintenance such as installing a new battery, new brakes/rotors, cleaned air intake sys, change fluids and new filters - - - I did perform the DIY headlight repair a while ago...which is definitely a design flaw.
Today I noticed the smell of antifreeze and then saw steam/smoke a few moments later. Thank goodness I was less than 1/2 mile from my home. After running a coolant system pressure test, I noticed the problem was not a blown hose but rather the water pump had failed. It was extremely difficult to see where the coolant was coming from until the air filter box was removed. I leaned into the engine bay, placed my head where the air filter box was, looked to my left and saw a stream of coolant flowing from the bottom of the water pump's pulley. All the many many many hoses appear to be fine.
My STR just turned 50K miles and at this point I am trying to determine what hoses should be changed along with the coolant system flush, changing the water pump and thermostat.
What else should be done now that everything is torn apart?
Last edited by 1320racer; Jan 21, 2011 at 06:17 PM. Reason: left out a few words due to typing too fast
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 2,964
Likes: 507
From: Hamilton, NJ
reddrawf
While searching water pump failure info for STRs, I just noticed a question for me in this old post. Sorry for the very late response.
In 2008, I did sell my 2000 BMW 540 6speed and purchased a 2005 STR with 7K+ miles. Initially my STR I had some alignment issues, but besides that, I've only performed standard maintenance such as installing a new battery, new brakes/rotors, cleaned air intake sys, change fluids and new filters - - - I did perform the DIY headlight repair a while ago...which is definitely a design flaw.
Today I noticed the smell of antifreeze and then saw steam/smoke a few moments later. Thank goodness I was less than 1/2 mile from my home. After running a coolant system pressure test I noticed that it was not a blown hose but rather the water pump had failed. It was extremely difficult to see where the coolant was coming from until the air filter box was removed. I leaned into the engine bay, placed my head where the air filter box was, looked to my left and saw a stream of coolant flowing from the bottom of the water pump's pulley. All the many many many hoses appear to be fine.
My STR just turned 50K miles and at this point I am trying to determine what hoses should be changed along with the coolant system flush, changing the water pump and thermostat.
What else should be done now that this all apart?
While searching water pump failure info for STRs, I just noticed a question for me in this old post. Sorry for the very late response.
In 2008, I did sell my 2000 BMW 540 6speed and purchased a 2005 STR with 7K+ miles. Initially my STR I had some alignment issues, but besides that, I've only performed standard maintenance such as installing a new battery, new brakes/rotors, cleaned air intake sys, change fluids and new filters - - - I did perform the DIY headlight repair a while ago...which is definitely a design flaw.
Today I noticed the smell of antifreeze and then saw steam/smoke a few moments later. Thank goodness I was less than 1/2 mile from my home. After running a coolant system pressure test I noticed that it was not a blown hose but rather the water pump had failed. It was extremely difficult to see where the coolant was coming from until the air filter box was removed. I leaned into the engine bay, placed my head where the air filter box was, looked to my left and saw a stream of coolant flowing from the bottom of the water pump's pulley. All the many many many hoses appear to be fine.
My STR just turned 50K miles and at this point I am trying to determine what hoses should be changed along with the coolant system flush, changing the water pump and thermostat.
What else should be done now that this all apart?
I wouldn't go crazy and pull the supercharger off to check / replace that line, but the more you replace now, the less worry have of potential failure.
Take care,
George
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 441
Likes: 84
From: Silver Spring, Maryland
Two water pumps in as many days!
My wife's 2002 Grand Cherokee V8 with 90K miles just began leaking coolant from the weep hole. I found this video clip that shows exactly how to handle the job.
http://www.blackhatboy.com/2004-jeep...at-replacement
I ordered the Jeep parts for $108 delivered: new water pump (not remanf), thermostat, upper and lower hoses. I also spent another $31 at Auto Zone for cleaners and coolant. The cleaners will also be used for my STR's water pump replacement.
I called three Jeep dealers to get an estimate and the low price was $991 + tax and shop fees and the high price was $1355 + tax and shop fees. So this goes to show you that all dealerships are good at marking up labor rates as well as parts.
http://www.blackhatboy.com/2004-jeep...at-replacement
I ordered the Jeep parts for $108 delivered: new water pump (not remanf), thermostat, upper and lower hoses. I also spent another $31 at Auto Zone for cleaners and coolant. The cleaners will also be used for my STR's water pump replacement.
I called three Jeep dealers to get an estimate and the low price was $991 + tax and shop fees and the high price was $1355 + tax and shop fees. So this goes to show you that all dealerships are good at marking up labor rates as well as parts.
Senior Member
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 295
Likes: 10
From: NY, NY
Stock water pump on the STR is a certifiable plastic piece of s***. You may want to find a better aftermarket replacement particurlarly if u live in hot climate.
Here's one http://eurotoysltd.com/catalog/produ...oducts_id=1322
Here's one http://eurotoysltd.com/catalog/produ...oducts_id=1322
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,327
Likes: 251
From: Bowling Green, KY
A man after my own heart! I traded my 01 540/6 in for a STR.
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 441
Likes: 84
From: Silver Spring, Maryland
Stock water pump on the STR is a certifiable plastic piece of s***. You may want to find a better aftermarket replacement particurlarly if u live in hot climate.
Here's one http://eurotoysltd.com/catalog/produ...oducts_id=1322
Here's one http://eurotoysltd.com/catalog/produ...oducts_id=1322
I do plan to keep this buggy for a few more years, but even if not, I only purchase and install high quality parts since I want a reliable car for me as well as the next owner. It is a sense of pride and good karma...or is it good "car"ma.
Does anyone know if the original water pump in our STRs is the AC Delco unit? I have not noticed a label or stamping on it yet but will look again. I found the following water pump options at RockAuto:
-AIRTEX Part # AW4124 {#WP9354}
$59.99
-HYTEC Part # 114108
$63.73
-CARDONE SELECT Part # 5523149 {#PWP9354}; Includes Gasket
$68.79
-A 1 CARDONE Part # 58612 Reman. Includes Gasket
$73.79
-ACDELCO Part # 252800 {#89003363} PUMP KIT,WAT
$42.79
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 441
Likes: 84
From: Silver Spring, Maryland
Howdy bimmer buddy
I had a 1997 BMW 540i 6speed from 25K-131K miles, then the car was stolen. Next, I had a 2000 BMW 540i 6speed from 41K-86K miles. Both drove beautifully but took a lot of money and work to keep on the road.
So far, my 2005 STR has been much cheaper to keep on the road. My STR is faster but does not handle as well as my 540is did. My BMWs were rock-solid at 155mph and I have not had my STR over 115mph because it just does not feel as safe at high speeds. I still love my STR though!
I had a 1997 BMW 540i 6speed from 25K-131K miles, then the car was stolen. Next, I had a 2000 BMW 540i 6speed from 41K-86K miles. Both drove beautifully but took a lot of money and work to keep on the road.
So far, my 2005 STR has been much cheaper to keep on the road. My STR is faster but does not handle as well as my 540is did. My BMWs were rock-solid at 155mph and I have not had my STR over 115mph because it just does not feel as safe at high speeds. I still love my STR though!
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Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,327
Likes: 251
From: Bowling Green, KY
I agree, they are two different cars. The funny thing is that the str seems to have the more stiff suspension (plus the better setup for handling) but it seems to corner worse than the bimmer. I love the cheaper parts for the str too, fuel filter for the str is $10, whereas I think I spent $125 for the one for the 540.
I do miss the ability to row through the gears though...
I do miss the ability to row through the gears though...
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,445
Likes: 218
From: Atlanta, GA
Do you know the specific components that have been updated with the eurotoys water pump? They only state to "Replace that old design water pump (that is prone to failure) with this Updated Factory water pump from Jaguar." I will give them a call if you don't know off the top of your head.
I do plan to keep this buggy for a few more years, but even if not, I only purchase and install high quality parts since I want a reliable car for me as well as the next owner. It is a sense of pride and good karma...or is it good "car"ma.
Does anyone know if the original water pump in our STRs is the AC Delco unit? I have not noticed a label or stamping on it yet but will look again. I found the following water pump options at RockAuto:
-AIRTEX Part # AW4124 {#WP9354}
$59.99
-HYTEC Part # 114108
$63.73
-CARDONE SELECT Part # 5523149 {#PWP9354}; Includes Gasket
$68.79
-A 1 CARDONE Part # 58612 Reman. Includes Gasket
$73.79
-ACDELCO Part # 252800 {#89003363} PUMP KIT,WAT
$42.79
I do plan to keep this buggy for a few more years, but even if not, I only purchase and install high quality parts since I want a reliable car for me as well as the next owner. It is a sense of pride and good karma...or is it good "car"ma.
Does anyone know if the original water pump in our STRs is the AC Delco unit? I have not noticed a label or stamping on it yet but will look again. I found the following water pump options at RockAuto:
-AIRTEX Part # AW4124 {#WP9354}
$59.99
-HYTEC Part # 114108
$63.73
-CARDONE SELECT Part # 5523149 {#PWP9354}; Includes Gasket
$68.79
-A 1 CARDONE Part # 58612 Reman. Includes Gasket
$73.79
-ACDELCO Part # 252800 {#89003363} PUMP KIT,WAT
$42.79
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 441
Likes: 84
From: Silver Spring, Maryland
Stock water pump on the STR is a certifiable plastic piece of s***. You may want to find a better aftermarket replacement particurlarly if u live in hot climate.
Here's one http://eurotoysltd.com/catalog/produ...oducts_id=1322
Here's one http://eurotoysltd.com/catalog/produ...oducts_id=1322
Thanks again this is good information to know. I will make sure the pump I purchase has the new and improved design. I received this message back from eurotoys...
Hello Bryan,
The new design is a 2-piece casting and incorporates a different impeller (made from a different material). Your 2005 would have had this on it already, it is redesigned when compared to the older cars.
Regards,
Mike
Eurotoys Ltd.
847-464-4000
The new design is a 2-piece casting and incorporates a different impeller (made from a different material). Your 2005 would have had this on it already, it is redesigned when compared to the older cars.
Regards,
Mike
Eurotoys Ltd.
847-464-4000