I'm actually looking to buy this 1997 xk8 with about 100k on it. It doesn't currently have a battery in it and the owner said it won't run because it has an anti theft lock on it, but it will crank if I put a battery in it.

how much is this thing worth and can I fix it myself? I wanted to scoop it up if I can fix it easy. I read something online about unhooking a bypass behind the glove box and then plugging it back in once the battery is hooked up. I have a feeling the guy isn't exactly sure what's wrong and just wants the car gone. It looks nice, but I'm only a Honda person. I know nothing about high end euro cars. Please advise. Thanks.

 

Sounds like one to RUN away from!!

 

Buy cheap....put a lot of time and bucks into it. Enjoy. Sell for a loss...That's my formula (unfortunately, I'm not kidding.)....But anyway, the '97 has minimal built in anti-theft stuff, so if it doesn't start, it's probably something else. There's no "bypass" behind the glove box that I know of. The body control module is back there, but that won't help.

 

Sounds like the Red one located near Knoxville Tn. for a few months. Large price drop form original posting but same story. Craigslist post indicated a attempted theft and will not start. ????

 

It may have a after market security system that needs to be removed. Like TG says, the 97 is pretty basic in the US version.