I've had my XKR since August and have put on 4k miles and I think it's time for an oil change and I'm looking for suggestions/opinions. Do you guys recommend only taking it to Jag to get the oil changed or is a reputable auto shop fine? Also, I just hit 30k overall and I don't have the service manuals so is there anything that needs to be done (serviced) at 30k? Thanks.

 

An oil change is a perfect chance to get to know the dealer. I would certainly bring it there for the first one. After getting a feel for how they are, then you can perhaps think about alternatives.

Tony

 

Sounds like good advice, and I would extend that any indy shop you may be considering using. I am lucky to have a Jag-Aston-RR repair shop walking distance to my house I have been using for years and even on non British cars.

The indy may give you a little more time inspecting the car while on the lift that the dealer may not.

 

What year XKR do you have? If it's 2010+ then you will need it changed in a different way and with a different type of oil than the 2007 - 2009 models, which have a drain plug.

If you have a drain plug/2007-2009 model it's fairly easy to do yourself, and you control all aspects of the job including the oil you put back in it.

 

I just sprang for the 30,000 mile service on my 2008 xk conv. It cost around $410. I figured it would look good on a car fax and other service records when you go to sell the car. The bill says "Performed 30,000 mile service". Parts list shows they changed the air and pollen filters, wipers, oil and lube. The bill also refers to a part called Maintenance Kit $28.50 whatever that is. I was thinking of changing the air filter myself but when I looked on line it seemed like a lot harder than just unscrewing some cover. I think you had to go through the wheel well. The bill is vague as to what else they do. It says "See service menu for complete itemized list". I never bothered with routine service like this on other cars, but this is my first Jag so its kind of like an investment in its future.

 

And what oil are people going with these days?
I just moved to Castrol Edge, Full Synthetic for my XJR from Mobil 1.
What about the oil filter?

I change at 5000 km intervals (3100 miles) probably overkill, but I'm like that.

 

I use Royal Purple 5w 30. Good stuff...full synthetic.

 

For years I have had the oil changed at 5k mile intervals feeling that it was the least expensive maintenance I could have done on any vehicle. Recently, when I had the 08 XK in for it 30k service the service writer that I have used at my dealer for the last two years advised that it was a waste of money, time and effort and to just follow the Jaguar's recommendations for the service. Given that he is an employee with the local dealer and he is recommending against more often service and better income for the dealer I intend to follow his advice.

 

ahhh, the great debate continues.
Interestingly, on my last consulting trip to UAE, I learned that more car aficionados change their oil every 500km!!! of course, the preferential pricing might have a lot to do with that (in addition to the sand)