Having wanted to own an XK for some time i have the opportunity to purchase a 2010 2 owner car that’s covered 100k. It has got full Jaguar history barring the penultimate one which was at an independent. It is in lovely condition, runs very well and everything works. Having not been lucky enough to have owned an XK before i am not sure if there is anything mechanical that i should check on the engine side? My friend has just bought one and it was showing a hand brake fault, when looking on
here i saw advice to charge the battery even though it started the car fine and this should work, it did in fact work!

 

The weakest link in the 5.0L engine is the water pump. Catastrophic engine damage can occur if you don't shut off the engine immediately if it overheats. There is no "real" temperature gauge, just an idiot light and by then it's almost too late. So, what to do?

Your nose is an early warning system because antifreeze has a very distinctive aroma. If you smell antifreeze, check the overflow tank and make sure it's full. Don't just add water; use a 50-50 mix of water and antifreeze.

If you suspect that your water pump is leaking, look for the tell-tale signs of dried antifreeze on the front of your engine and have your radiator pressure tested.

You bought a 12 year old used car, and anything can happen. Rubber parts - tires, suspension bushings weatherstripping, wiring, etc. - dry out and crack from age and cause electrical glitches and squeaky or clunky noises.

Whatever problems may come your way, know that there are lots of knowledgeable members here who can help.

Life us short. Enjoy the ride!

 

I big indicator if your coolant pipes themselves leak UNDER the intake, look at the rear of the engine on the torque converter cover (most people mistakenly say 'bell housing'). If those under-intake hoses leak there would probably be some coolant-colored stains there.

 

You can just change the water pump right away & feel confident for a little if you are concerned.

 

thanks Stuart S that’s sensible advice

 

To your point @Eddgreenwood , correct. The battery in these cars must be fully charged and in good health.
A depleted battery may start the engine, but will not carry enough voltage and/or amperage to activate the many electrical modules that need activating.

You may see many, many threads in which at first people are adamant it's not the battery... to discover the root of their issues WAS the battery.
The parking actuator and the touch screen display are two common examples.

To add to the good comments above, get that diff, transmission and supercharger serviced, if they haven't been. Plenty of threads on that to.
Welcome to the club!

 

Yes, agree - the water Pump is a usual issue with cars with this millage - check to see if it's been done..... if not get it done (better now then very soon).

 

Front crossover outlet pipe is probably as important as the water pump. Most probably with those miles, it should have replaced by now along with the water pump. Make sure you check service records for the front crossover pipe and water pump. Extremely important.

 

Thank you Cee Jay i appreciate your reply

 

Thanks Guy i thought i’d feedback as i was surprised it could trigger these faults.

 

Thanks Bocatrip good comments

 

Thanks gctippett the bills look to be coming in already!

 

Thanks mosesbotbol

 

One final question which i forgot to ask is regarding the timing chain, as the car has been serviced in line with the manufacturer’s stipulations (will need to check correct grade oil used on penultimate service which is the only independent stamp) would the chain be a concern given the 100k miles covered or are they usually ok? I had a chain go on my 520d at 120k a few years back and it gave no warning noises prior it just went pop. Thank you in advance for any replies.

 

Have a glance and you’ll see the original chain guides can be an issue on that particular engine…. walk into any dealer and ask for the service history on your car. At least you’ll know what has been done, and when. (something I’ve done with any previously owned Jag or LR)

 

See my timing chain post on the main page.

the 2010's have a more robust chain than some later models, but it is very sensitive to infrequent oil changes.
the chain tensioner is activated by oil pressure.