I was told if you get a 2000 xj8 with only 5 numbers at the end of the vin instead of six, you would be post nikasil engines and should be o.k How are your 2000 model xj8 holding up?

 

There is extensive data on Nikisil on the site. I believe your information is incorrect on the engine number vs. Vin number. It is my understanding that the engines were modified mid year '01, but those engines may not have gotten into production vehicles until '02.

Do your searching on this forum and you will find more information than you may want, but the concensus is that as long as your engine is not experiencing poor compression and the leak down test has good results, you should be fine. Additionally, a nikisil engine is technically better than a sleeved engine, it's lighter and stronger. Also, there are manufacturers that are looking to bring it back as the fuel issue is gone.

As with any mechanical device, your mileage may vary... I chose to roll the dice and buy a nikisil engine as all of the evidence seemed to prove to me that we are well beyond the issue.

 

First, there is no relationship between any VIN and engine serial numbers except in Jaguar's data base. The first steel lined engine has been reported to be numbered 0008181043 which equates to a manufacture date of the 18th of August, 2000 at 10:43am. Check your car's manufacturer date on the driver 'B' column label. If you have after August 2000 you probably have a steel sleeved engine. Any dealer can pull your engine serial number from their world wide data base using the VIN. My 2000 XK8 had a Nikasil engine and the compression checked at new car specs at 106k miles. If a Nikasil car is not pumping oil through the full load breather tube I would not have any hesitation in owning it.