Hi, I have had my 2001 xj8 for 19 years. Currently has 154,000 miles. Most recently told I need all 4 shocks replaced. I really know nothing about my vehicle repair needs since sadly, my "go to" mechanic is no longer alive and I can no longer afford the Jaguar repair shop prices. . I am a senior citizen and would like to keep my car as long as possible, but I don't know if it is worth spending thousands of dollars for the repair job since I only drive the car locally. I was quoted from $1000- $3000 from 4 different auto repair shops,
I have 3 questions:
1) Is it worth it to replace all four shocks on a car this old?
2) I was told that if I didn't replace the shocks, the entire weight of the car could fall on my tires which would collapse. True?
3) What kind of shocks are on my car? They are the original.

 

Addendum: When I got my first estimate, the mechanic showed me that the right rear bushings (?) were deteriorated and the front right shock was leaking.

 

It’s definitively “worth it” to replace them and dangerous not to.

https://www.arrivealive.mobi/dangers...hock-absorbers

 

Without knowing all the particulars of your car, it could escalate the cost, however around
here in Tennessee, you could get four Bilstein shocks for about $400. Installation should not
run you more than a couple of hundred more.

 

1. $1000 isn't hateful at modern labor rates if they are using bilsteins. $3k is bs.. This is a pretty easy job for a regular shop. If you can provide your location, maybe you can have someone help you.
For reference, the fronts are about 30-45 min per side, while the rears are roughly 90 minutes per, if that.
Whether its worth it is up to you. If you like the car, $1k is not a bad cost.
2. Thats total BS. The shocks essentially just control the spring from Boinging constantly. The spring holds up the body, the shock controls it. Worst is a bouncy ride and some poor handling.
3. Bilstein.

 

Thank you for your comments and advice I am new to this site and don't quite understand how to reply to posts.
As I noted, I have a 2001 jaguar xj8 with 153,000 miles. It has been regularly maintained and to my knowledge, this is the only recommended repair as of this writing. I live in Metro Atlanta and all the repair shops from which I received estimates have quoted replacements with KYB gas-a-just ranging from $775 to $2300 (from Jag dealer) for the four and 5 hours of labor. I was told that the rear shocks are difficult to replace because they might have to get into the trunk to access them.
I do believe I should get them replaced, but I am totally confused as to 1) how urgently I need to replace them and 2) whether I am getting reasonable cost estimates because I am a female and I lack knowledge about my car systems.

 

KYB shocks are essentially the second choice for shocks and a popular option. Some people like them but I would always prefer the Bilsteins. I would try to get quotes from these shops again with the requirement that they use bilsteins with new bumpstops and rear donuts (large foam type spacer). I think the reality of shops charging $100-$150 for labor means that you won't get the shocks changed for less than say $1,000 with good parts.

1. Urgency is pretty low. Even if they have leaked completely out, you will just have a very bouncy ride. Its not unsafe in any meaningful way. You can start by having either the front or rear done if you notice anything unusual on either end. The only overlap that you save by doing at one time is pulling the car into the shop and placed on the lift.

2. Anything above $1500 is not worth pursuing.

 

Thank you!! You have really helped reduce my anxiety level 100% for both driving the car and getting it repaired at a reasonable cost!!

 

Thank you!

 

Atlanta GIGI:

I paid $1800 for the labor and a few extra parts, but bought the Bilsteins (4), the front mounts, and most of the rear kit on Part Geeks. But my local guy is expensive and I had him do some other, minor bits. Changed the ride to like new. But I am a fan of this series and plan to keep the car and using him for the work I can't do any longer (I am 80!), since he specializes in Jags and Land Rovers.

Go with OE Bilsteins, everything I read say they are much better than KYB. But go on Parts Geek or Rock Auto and shop a little. The labor for the rears is horrific, especially if any bolts are rust welded in (it took my guy hours to remove one rear bolt and he has been doing these for years -- did my 2001 in 2013).

But there are a few members on this forum from your area: maybe they will weigh in. It is a car worth keeping.

 

I got an estimate for both shocks AND struts on the front only. Is that BS? Are there struts on these cars in addition to shocks?

 

Shocks on all 4 corners. The only struts I'm aware of are the ones that hold up the hood.

 

Total bs

 

Thank you. I thought so.