Hi all. I'm looking to purchase my first Jag. I've found a one owner, 2008 XJ8 L with 11000 miles. The car is owned by a 85 year old gentleman, has been serviced by a Jag dealer every year and he has all of the records. I've read the "what you should know" sticky but just wanted to see if anyone might have some input on anything else I should look for and if this car being driven so little would be a concern.

Thanks

 

Appears the car is driven roughly 1300 miles per year? If it's been serviced regularly you should be good with dealership recommendations.

If it had been sitting - change out all fluids including gas, check for pests, replace battery, plugs (yes they can deteriorate when unused), tires. If left stored, uncovered and unwashed, paint might be shot. Unwashed and uncovered cars will wreck paint jobs.

Since serviced regularly, tires might have flat spots, gas might be getting stale, fuel pump/ filter might be gunking up, battery probably needs replacing as these cars have the occasional trickle drain. Oil should be changed.

Verify the coolant system was flushed (every 5 years with dexcool). Do this by checking the records but them also check the air temp coming out of the drivers side vents with a thermometer. Use the tool, just don't "feel" the heat. Temp on drivers vents should equal temp on passenger vents.

I would have an independent inspection and IMO there is nothing wrong with having the servicing dealer do that so long as they are a reputable Jag dealership which I would assume they are.

 

If the car is be as you described, dealer serviced and it can be verified and you are an informed buyer - jump on it before somebody else does.


Keep in mind, however, that many 1st time owners have unrealistic notions as to value and old age is not proof of good character. Take me for example. Sometimes an original owner will be so horrified re the cost to fix current problems they just want to palm it off on somebody, anybody. There is no substitute for an informed buyer (that's you).


Be prepared to educate the current owner of true mkt conditions.

 

Have someone drive it up and down the street. Stand on the sidewalk and listen for noises. Check tires, should've original for uneven wear.
1. Battery
2. Tires
3. Belts
4. All filters -fuel, air, and AC.
5. Sparkplugs
6. Flush brake fluid
7. Flush radiator
8. Flush tranny and filter
9. Detail and wash.
You just spent 2500 - 3000 over purchase price. But car should be good for another 50-60,000 miles. And look and drive like new.

 

Do let us know what you did and how it worked out.

 

Tarhealcracker, The reason I'm just now posting back is because I took your advice and took a 6 am flight to Buffalo, NY Tuesday morning and bought the car. Did the entire 11 hour drive back to NC yesterday. Thanks everyone for your input. I'm tickled to death with the car. It's a base model with the only option being parking control. I guess I now need to make an intro as a new member.

Thanks

 

Way to go Driver. Keep us posted. Great looking car.