hi... I am looking to purchase a 98 through a 01 xj8 model. I currently have a XJ6 1996. I am going to go a little newer, but not sure if I should go with a XJ8. What is the most common problems with these models. The car xj8 model I am looking at has about 101k, and another one with around 115k i believe both under 4 grand. I wanna know should I jump into the XJ8, or go with a v6 stype or xtype?

 

I've owned both a 1996 XJ Sport and a 2000 XJ8L in the past. Although similar in appearance, the development is very noticeable in both ride and performance on the later model.

Owning an XJ6, you already know what to look for with body and trim. A critical appraisal of service history is an absolute essential with any Jaguar. Mileage is always a personal thing. I don't worry about high mileage with comprehensive history to support the maintenance; others prefer to see very low miles.

The big difference to consider with the XJ8 are V8 tensioners / cooling system. Early V8's had plastic tensioners which can (and do) break up, causing major damage. Early water pump impellers were also prone to break up causing overheating with similar serious consequences. Both of these should have been sorted by now on a well maintained 2001.

Graham

 

hi, thanks for that. The car I am looking at is a 2000 XJ8, but not sure if those things were done. I will find out tomorrow. What do you think about the xtypes stypes from 2000-2003?

 

Do a search on cylinder wash, my 98 has had that issue. It's not a problem if you and everyone who uses the car is aware.
Also the transmission will fail at some point, there's a good chance a used car will already have been repaired.

 

This sticky on the X308 forum might help: https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...-issues-43702/ It's a lot of information, but should cover any major issue that could come up on the X308.

For what it's worth, my '01 XJ8 VDP has about 160K and is still running strong with no problems. This is a far superior car to the XJ6 in terms of performance and reliability, especially the post-2000 models. I prefer the looks, comfort, and ride of the XJ8 to the x-type, but that is purely subjective. You may consider whether passenger room or vehicle size matters in your situation. If they're both mechanically sound, take each for a spin and buy the one that suits you best!

 

Did the 1998 xjr have plastic timing chain tensioners?

 

Yes, up to August 2001 mfg date.

Also not major, but the third brake light falls loose of the window glass and the headliner material separates from the backing.

 

All of the early V8's had a few issues. Going from an XJ6 to an XJ8 or an XJR is going to be night and day difference. Same with going from an XJ8 to an X-type.

To be frank, I would avoid the X-Type at all costs. It is literally nothing more than a Ford Mondao (in the U.S. Market we call that a contour) The XJ8's "common issues" are:
(1)The transmission PRV can cause excessive wear in the valve body causing random pressure spikes, and as a result can brake the snap ring on the A-Clutch drum. (my VDP has 125k miles and no issue yet)
(2)The plastic thermostat housing will eventually crack and leak. This is inevitable, IT'S JUST PLASTIC!
(3)Timing chain tensioners are made from plastic and must be replaced ASAP! These can break due to stress, as the bodies are made from plastic, the upper and lower runners can (and usually do) break off causing metal on metal friction between the timing chain and the tensioner. This job is actually surprisingly easy if you are careful and take your time. And fairly in expensive to complete.

These are the most common issues with these cars (and this effects ALL early V8 Jags). The only exception to this is the VDP SC and the XJR which have the "bullet proof" Mercedes gearbox. You wont regret buying and XJ8, XJ8L, VDP, XJR or any V8 jag for that matter.

 

Whats the battery amp for Jaguar XJ8 1998 model, can someone help me. Big Thanks

 

Hello Wardo.

Correct battery specs are:
CCA 800 Ah
Capacity 100Ah....preferably a Silver Calcium which is far superior
to cheaper types and ill give up to three times the life span of
ordinary batteries.
These are a hungry electrical system requiring a top notch battery ;o))

 

49H8 auto lite gold (I think it's a 950 CCA battery) from advanced auto parts is what we use and had very few issues with them. As stated by the previous poster, these are very energy hungry cars.