Hello,
back posting here after long time.
I am considering to buy a XJR from 2000. It has 150000mi.
Little bit worried about the high mileage.
Mechanically speaking what should I pay more attention to, when going to inspect this car ? The guy is asking for $6000 which I think it is too much on the high side. The car is in California SF Bay Area.
Thanks for your hints.

 

If it's been serviced regularly then mileage shouldn't be an issue, but a bargaining tool.
Things to ask on the phone
any engine lights?
service history? Ideally a full one if low owner.
Timing chain tensioner update?
Knocks or noises? with it being 22 years old the myriad of suspension bushes, some of these may need to be renewed.

A good one goes like stink, pop it in sport and take off, if it gives the impression of an aircraft takeoff up to say 110 - she's a survivor!

 

Yes, 150k is nothing to a properly maintained 4.0 Liter engine. The issues that would
normally surface at that mileage are suspension and fuel/emission issues. The ABS
light might surface unless the solder fix has been done.

 

Make sure everthing electrical works including aircon. Especially seats. Check the rear view mirror has not stated to leak oil and has partially discoloured the mirror.
These cars are full of modules that need programming if they need to be replaced so make sure everthing works.
If it has a sunroof does it sit flat with the roof line or low.
Open and close the sunroof and see if it go's back into position properly. You cannot buy new parts when the plastic item break.

 

Two years ago, climbing *** Hill, I followed a jet black (anthracite?) XJR coming up from Market: looked like it just came off the factory floor. If that's the car, it's a steal at $6000. Geez I was jealous even tho the rental was a brand new Escalade.

 

Black always shows nice on these cars....when they are clean. The trouble, however, is
keeping them clean. They tend to show every little spec and blemish. They are great as
show cars and such, but not so wonderful as a daily driver unless you are committed to
daily washing and drying to get rid of the watermarks. You could just use a car cover however,
there are perils with that arrangement as well.

 

It's a twenty year old car . . . water marks?

 

Hello Jim, yes the watermarks I am alluding to are the ones that appear where a drop of water has dried
on the surface of the car, I believe I probably should have said "water spots".

 

yup, the bain of my life in summer showers!

 

My first thought on a car that will not exceed 15 mph is restricted fuel flow, but I know
that a faulty transmission can also cause that sort of issue. If you have fuel pressure at
the fuel rail, you might get the tranny shop to take a look.

 

Yep. to be sure, if I were looking at a car in todays' market, I would take at the very least,
one of the cheap ELM327 code readers to be able to get an idea of what to expect. You
can download the software on your phone and diagnose issues during the test drive.