Hi all,
I've found a blue 1998 XJ8 with 80,000 miles for sale for $2500. The problem is that it has a bad transmission, which I guess is more common than I thought . Think it's still a good buy after the cost to fix?

 

It would have to be super straight for me, preferably with timing chain tensioners/water pump done with invoices. And a good set of compressions.

 

I agree with Sean B. Be very careful before you buy; major (and even minor) Jag repairs can add up in a hurry! Is the engine running and does it seem to be smooth and quiet running? Does the air conditioning/heating system work efficiently? What about the audio/CD/tape system; does it all work? If so, hire your own mechanic to independently run a compression test and advise you of the results (the 98 models often have cylinder wall problems requiring complete engine rebuild (extremely expensive!) or replacement. While he is there ask him at least take a look at the suspension, brakes and exhaust system. As Sean B says, demand invoice proof for any major repairs claimed by the seller.

Are you at least somewhat experienced in auto repairs? A car like this one can best be described as a 'project' car. Do you have both the time and ability to do significant repairs yourself? If not, seriously consider passing it up, I say. Good luck; be sure to let us know how you decide.

But don't give up on a Jag: they are wonderfully smooth cars but more expensive to maintain. Consider a 2002 or later model if you possibly can; Ford had worked out some major bugs by then.

 

As others have said, dont be tempted by the $2500 price tag as an indicator of getting a luxury car for the price of a 90s Honda. Repairs can be very expensive. Think of the $2500 car with an unknown history and bad transmission as more like a $8k car to be on the high side if you arent familiar with doing your own repairs. Engine, transmissoin, and suspension repairs are common for a 12 year old Jag with 80k miles. These can be very expensive.

But there still is hope that the owner is desperate and is dumping a perfectly good XJ8 with a bad transmission. Be for certain why the Jag is being sold for so little $ for having a bad transmission instead of being repaired.

Its kind of like buying an old mansion for cheap with foundation problems. That will be an expensive repair, but there still might be mold, a leaking roof, plumbing problems and etc. or there might not be any of this.

If everything works, these cars are great and you wont regret buying one.

 

To summarize the above: Early cars are best owned by hobby mechanics.

You need to accept that the car under discussion is 13 years old.

Check out the FAQ sticky on the XK8/R forum 'I’m buying a used XK8/XKR, what should I look for?'; https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...ad.php?t=24282

You then need to understand all the issues raised.

 

There are old Jags (of any age) out there owned by old guys (like myself) who keep the car in perfect mechanical condition no matter what the cost. Yes you will pay more for such a car but given the cost of repairs and the depreciation on these cars it's the smart way to buy a Jag. My policy is to never buy a car from a dude who would sell a classic car before reparing it unless I know the good character of the seller.

The mechanical/cosmetic repair cost for a poorly cared for Jag (or any luxury car) can hoover up you bank account in short order.

 

You may pay $2500 for the repair / replacement of the transmission. You now have to ask is the car worth $5000. What else is at issue with the vehicle? As others have said, you can find quite a lot of these XJ8 (x308 series) one owner vehicles for sub $8000 and they will be low mileage and pristine with maintenance history. These are the bargains you are looking for as you can then know exactly what you are buying.

Personally, I would pass on this one, that is just my opinion.

 

thanks guys so much for the input!!
We own an Amaranth/Ivory 98 VDP, so I know the risks associated with this beauty. It just had a $2500+ service, including the upper tensioners changed, head/taillights failure problem in the light stalk switch fixed and regular service items. Ours has about 64,000 miles and I'm keeping my fingers crossed as far as the tranny is concerned. I thought this might be a good parts car, but it turned out to be a short wheelbase that was an original Herzt rental. Looks like I'll pass this time...
Thanks again for all the input!

 

as a side note, it seems a lot of these transmissions fail between 60-80K. Do you guys know of any preventative things I can do to help bypass sooner or later having a fail tranny?
thanks again!

 

If you haven't changed your fluid and filter, I would get that done. These are not 100K units like they like to imply. All transmissions need regular maintenance to ensure longevity.

 

why not make a list of things that need doing and get estimates...then factor in the purchase price. then have a look and see what you can get for the same price. you will now know for sure whether or not its a good deal.

 

yeah, I had the tranny recently serviced...should be good for a while I hope. Thanks again for all the input...