Hello,

Bought a 2002 XJ8 a few weeks ago with 37K original miles. I just changed the plugs, which were still in good shape. Now I would like to refresh/upgrade fluids and add/change to new filters.

Do you recommend changing trans and brake fluids? and if so, to what brands/products. Money is no restraint.

 

Yes, change everything now and make sure your tyres aren't 10 years old either.

 

Already got the XJR wheels and new tires


Any suggestions on what fluid for the trans? what is the best these days?

 

Are you sure that nothing has been done?

The Jaguar antifreeze is sold in a 5L container -- I would to a simple refresh of the fluid w/distilled water -- my R uses most of the 10L that you get from the 50/50 mix. You will be able to see the condition as well as any sediment that comes out of the radiator. You can assess at that point.

How are the front brakes pads -- the brake fluid should be refreshed every two years -- so if it looks like you may need front brakes soon - I would do a fluid change with the pads. If the pads are newer you should do the fluid with the coolant.

Personally -- I would look over the undercarriage making sure you have no leaks in anything including the differential and the transmission. Since it sounds like you have no information on the car I would have the transmission fluid level checked as well as a visual inspection of the fluid -- personally I would not change it at your mileage if all looks fine ..... But if I did I would only use the specified fluid. I would also try to find out the history and see if you can get any information from the selling dealer.


I bet your plugs were fine.

 

The plugs were ok, but I wanted to have a look at them anyways, and since they were out, I figured I'd put in the newer iridium NGKs.

The front pads look 50%ish, so I'll leave those. I am going to change the fluid and will do as you suggest and inspect the trans fluid and go from there.

I will flush the radiator as you suggested.

Thank you for your response

 

Sounds like a beautiful ride you got....no pics though

By the sounds of it with these low miles she's probably been taken care of and babied, but do you have any evidence of that in the service book, and do you trust it?

Most car enthusiasts I reckon buying a really nice example, not knowing the complete history for sure, on a 10 yr old example with money no restraint would probably do a change on all fluids + filters.

Its not going to break the bank compared to what you paid for the car and offers peace of mind.

Good luck to you whatever route you decide is best for you

 

One concern might be if it has been setting for an extended time, there may be condensation in the fluids. Just a thought.
Dave

 

A pic of my pretty kitty

 

What a clean car , looks like it just came out of the factory

 

One more fluid change to consider is the power steering system. It is Dexron III ATF.

 

Yup, she is a pretty kitty. The proverbial little ol ladies car. My neighbors mother bought it, and one year later had a stroke, so they kept it covered and maintained, but only drove it to the mother's appointments. 37K original miles.

Quite the deal at $9500