I love my Jag. When I was a kid in the UK I always wanted one. I love this model because it is still reminiscent of the XJ6's I lusted after in the 60s and 70s.

It's my daily driver, but every day it's like driving a new car. I wash it twice a week because it looks so good when it shines!

So, how do I make it last forever? What needs to be replaced BEFORE it fails and causes bigger problems?

 

If you keep up with regular maintence a car should last a long time!! My step father is a mechanic and fixed my mother 1990 Olds 88 with the 3800 v6 and they sold the car running with about 286,000 miles. My step father still sees the car like 3 years later. The engine and trans was never opened. Most people will ignore a probelm and it leads to bigger issues. Watch your fluid levers and change them. Don't push off an issue. You can't stop a total failures, but don't contribute to them. The only thing that worries me about these cars is the all the electrical components. How will they age with all the temp changes and vibrations.

 

Cars are meant to be driven and used. They also need regular maintenance. Don't skimp. Keep it clean and waxed to protect the outside. Wax at least 2x yearly with a good brand. I like Drew's post. Stuff will happen. Try to catch it early. I tend to believe in using the dealer. He has the tools and training to repair and has seen similar issues before. Pay for his experience, knowledge, and training. These will save you money in the long run. Just my thoughts. By the way, I'm blown away that the big engine can return 21 city/28 hwy!

 

A garage is important but the big thing, aside from what the others have advised is, "don't beat the machinery".

 

Ask Rachael:

http://tinyurl.com/yl6xfds

Twotone

 

Bring it to a place that will give a car an undercarriage inspection when you get the oil changed. Follow the manufacturer checklists at the correct mileage.

Go easy on the transmission. Make you you wait that second or two once it's in drive before driving off. Keep tires at pressure. If you don't have a ton of maitenence budget; know which mechanic can do which service. You don't need the dealer to change brakes or do oil- for instance.

My frined handle bank repo's for a large local lender. He just took in an '04 XJ8 with 120K+ miles and the car is running strong.