I got this car back in 2009 and it has given me both joy and considerable heartache. We are on our 4th coolant reservoir and have had check engine light coming on repeatedly leading to replacement of both catalytic converters and oxygen sensors 2 years back. For the last 6 months, the light came on if we drive just locally but went away after a drive of 100 miles. I was told that the timing chain may be a bit lose to cause the problem. There was a taping noise when starting the car which raised this suspicion. Now there is a squeaky noise like a lose fan belt. I will be taking the car to my mechanic to see what can be done. What I am afraid is that the cats may have been damaged too to need replacement in addition to the work on the engine

As the value of the car Is very low ($3-5 K), I am not sure if I should bother going ahead with repairs costing close to the value of the car. While it has been a great luxury car, it is also the most unreliable car I have had. Mysterious warnings, codes leading the mechanic to scratch his head and which often went away on their own. You never know what will come when starting the car on a cold morning. A real shame as I love driving the car and it's classic looks.

A question - if its a choice between repairing a 110k mile engine versus putting a second hand one, what will be a prudent choice ?

Thanks

PeeAm

 

At just 110 thousand miles, unless abused i doubt you need any serious motor work.
From what i have read, as well as my experience with these cars, is they are well built.
High end quality, pieces of equipment.
Available at bargain basement prices,
That after fixing regular wear and tear items, are great used cars.
Forgot to mention you have to do it yourself,
Or it may never end, its going to the shop routine.
Four reserve tanks, means you have a ham handed mechanic.
Get another one, yesterday, if you don't want to DIY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Thanks for you response. I did find a new mechanic, not a Jaguar specialist but recommended on this forum. He replaced the serpentine belt and checked the pulleys which were fine.

This was the cheapest repair I have ever had on this car !

Regards

PeeAM