Hi guys, I'm currently looking at a 2004 Silver Jaguar STR. I'll include a link to it. Retail is $13,630 and the "Online price" is $12,471. I went and test drove it and looked for the usual things like making sure the headlights move like they're supposed to, checking the oil, coolant, etc. However with the A/C on, the car blows cold through the 2 vents closest to the climate control unit and very hot out of the 2 outside vents. I also freaked the salesman out because he started the car and brought it to the front (about 100 feet) and turned it off. On restart it blew a puff of smoke (I believe to be unburned fuel per what I've read on this website) so he thinks it's burning oil. And as I mentioned earlier, the climate control is messed up with the A/C and heat on at the same time (a common problem from what I've read here).

The salesman said the dealership is thinking about sending the car to auction because they can't figure out how to fix the climate control, or find any cause for the smoke when restarted after a cold start. He said to toss him an offer and he'd see whether the sales manager would sell it rather than take a bigger hit at auction. So I'm curious as to what YOU would think as a fair offer?

2004 Jaguar S-TYPE Base - Chevrolet dealer in Noblesville Indiana

I'm fairly mechanically competent, so I know I can do the work if I get it, but I dont want to pay upwards of 10k for a car that already has problems, know what I mean? Thanks in advance guys! Hopefully I'll end up a part of this forum if I can get this car!

 

Well, you can let them know that to fix the climate it will take $1k+ (at dealer prices/labor) and that is higher mileage, the shocks are prob on their way out ($300/each) so I'd offer 10.5k

 

I'd try to find what similar age/mileage/etc STRs have sold for at auction and offer that, plus the auction "premium" (I'm guessing you pay such a thing over there). You're taking a chance but could get a bargain. (Every car purchase you take a chance.)

 

Thanks for the advice so far guys! Anything else I should be looking for that's a common problem on these?

 

Contact fellow member George Androulakis, screen name "Androulakis". George is a well respected member here who is dabbling in the previous enjoyed car market. He has helped several members here into their dream rides with nothing but rave reviews from the new owners!

George Androulakis
Russell Marques LLC - Exotic Auto Brokers.
"From your dreams to your driveway.... "
george@rmexoticautos.com

 

offroadking, My silver 03 STR is its twin. The problem that likely plagues the a/c/heat is the climate control module, which can be sent out for repair ($120). The puff of smoke should be investigated further prior to a maximum purchase of $11,900.

 

Would you take a dark blue one, with 88k oatmeal interior, nav and all the toys in near perfect condition for 8900 or so?

I have a line on one.

And I can find you whatever you like.

e-mail me george@rmexoticautos.com

Take care,

George

 

Michael is "DEAD ON" in referencing the cooling unit. I had mine replaced in March of this year. Also, see if you can get an extended warranty!!!

 

Blue sounds lovely. (Not unhappy with mine, but the blue does sound nice too.)

 

Well guys I put in an offer of $9500 on it and they accepted it! I'm going over it again with a fine tooth comb, but barring any other problems, It'll be mine! Thanks for all the advice, I appreciate it! Also George, if I find anybody else interested in one (which if I get this and they ride in it, who wouldn't be interested) I'll send them your way! Thanks!

 

Rock On! Way to go. Excellent price.

 

The only minor issues that I could see from the photos:

- Looks like the headlamp lens need to be refinished (but it could be the camera)

- Radiator black cover (splash shield) is missing two hold down screws (far right one and far left one)

- Looks like only one switch blade key and FOB, your looking around $300.00 to have second key made (just FYI)

- Looks like the transmission has been reflashed (notice the bright orange sticker under the hood near the drivers side wiper) could be a good thing.

Other than that looks great and good luck.

BTW Armor All is NOT the recommended leather treatment for the interiors of Jaguars!