Hello all,

I'm in the process of reading, learning and looking for a 2004+ X350 XJ8, maybe an XJR.

We have had very nice low mile well cared for 1998 XJ8 VDP in the past and have wanted a X350 for some time. Just love the classic lines of this model and the improvements they made in the X350.

Is there a buyers guild on this forum or elsewhere I can review ?

I have been reading here and an starting to become aware of some of the main issues, but have much to learn.

This look like a great forum, I look forward to being apart of it.
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Welcome Karl.

Good choice on the X350. I have a 2005 VDP that has been an awesome car. It has had its share of issues but most all were sorted out under warranty in my case.

I just bought an XK8 and posted my VDP in the classifieds about a week ago. I have not advertised it anywhere else yet, and am not even sure I want to sell it. It is that good of a car.

Take a look at my post here. In my post I listed everything that I replaced during the 4 years/60K miles I have owned it. That might help you get a picture of what to expect.

I take very good care of my vehicles. My VDP still looks/rides/drives/smells like a new car. I am working on making my 2004 XK8 the same.

 

These are a very satisfying car to own and drive, but are not fault-free, There are certain issues that can crop up depending on mileage and age, and will need attending to. One good thing is that the aftermarket is very active with Jaguars because Jaguar Cars seem to think the profit they missed when selling the new car can be got back from the 2nd and subsequent owners !!

So the "issues" which would normally need expensive Jaguar parts tend to be available on the internet for half the price. However, you will need to find a Jaguar specialist, or do DIY to take advantage of these prices. This is not too difficult in most places in the US, and easy in the UK. Standard stuff like servicing and brakes/tyres don't need a dealer anyway.

Bear in mind that expensive parts applies to most of the up-market European cars, Jaguar is not alone. Also Lexus and the other Jap luxobarges also have expensive spares. The thing is the cars depreciate until poor guys like us can buy them, but the spares don't !

From my own experience, the main issues are suspension bushes especially the rear wishbones, and filiform corrosion of the aluminium body that looks really awful, but is not serious, but can cost to rectify if you don't like the look of it. The air suspension can give trouble, mostly due to the compressor piston seal wearing out. Seals can be purchased for a DIY repair, or exchange even new pumps for around £300. Air springs can fail although this is more of a US issue, as it is very rare here in the UK. Why this is so is a mystery, it might be the damp weather we have here keeps the air spring diaphragm supple. Anyways, there is a US supplier that offers service exchange units for a reasonable price, so worry not. You can even convert to steel coil springs if it bothers you.

The bottom line is that these cars are now seriously cheap to buy, yet have many years of life, (even decades), left in them.

 

Thanks for the input guys.

I have owned a 2005 BMW 745Li and a 2003 Mercedes CL600 V12TT, from what I can tell owning a newer Jag, X350, will not be much of an issue comparably. I also enjoy working on and moding cars and have access to a lift if need be.

Many higher end cars are great values in my mind, but I know it takes good research and a willingness to resolve some issues yourself.

Looking forward to the hunt and owning one soon.
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