I have been searching for a 1997-2003 Xk8 convertible and ran across a 2004 XKR with 85,000 miles. I searched the forum for things to look out for but found only 1997-2003 issues. Is there anything I should be looking for on the 2004? Thanks. Terry

 

The best advice I can give, which applies to any second hand Jaguar purchase is this:

Have it inspected by an independent Jaguar mechanic before the purchase.

 

Look in this sticky thread in this forum, there are some links to new car purchase topic.

XK8 & XKR 'HOW TO' / DIY Repair & Maintenance Links / Facts & Data

 

By 2004 I think the mechanical design issues have been sorted out pretty well. There will be stuff you need to address but mostly due to age of rubber bits.

I keep a thread going about my 2004 here.

 

How much is the asking price, if you don't mind my asking?

 

Have the front end looked at for wear on all the bushings and links.
Check the brakes for wear/lifespan left as these are expensive on an XKR.
Check for any coolant leaks (sweet smell) or pressure test if you can.
Also if the owner will allow it, have the stored computer codes read.
Get all the maintenance/repair records/history you can for the car.
Other common issues are hard shifts from 1-2 and down from 2-1.
Brake switch under pedal.
An old battery will also give many false issue lights.

 

$15,900.00

 

It sounds a little high-priced for the mileage. Have you been able to take it for an independant inspection?
I purchased my 2003 XKR with 88K miles on it, about 15 months ago for $13K Canadian which is about $9,300 US at the current exchange rate.

If it is in tip-top shape it may be worth it. I would check other sources (autotrader, etc.) to price compare and then perhaps offer about $12,000 for it if it checks out in good condition. Just my two cents fwiw.

In any case good luck with your car hunt.

 

Oh, and one other area of concern at that mileage would be the wheel bearings. Although I'm not sure how one would go about determining how much life is left in them, unless you had the previous maintenance records to show they were replaced already.

 

I've been going through the same process that you have. The engine and transmission issues were resolved with the 4.2 and 6 speed. The hose issue with the top (green shower) was an issue from 1999-2006. Then you have all the random electronic issues caused by corrosion in the connections an circuit boards that seems to infect all Jags.

I opted for a low mileage 2003 XK8.

OTOH, once you replace the tensioners, water pump and thermostat housing in the 4.0 it's been pretty reliable and there is a valve replacement for the 5HP24 transmission that solves the blown transmission issue so if you can get one cheap enough or documented enough the 1997-2002 are safe too.

 

Check this one example on ebay.




Jaguar XKR Base Convertible 2 Door | eBay

 

I am in Cincy, 6 hours away with mine for sale, with a long list of KEY maint work jsut done to it in the last 15 months or way less.

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/p...m-next-155280/

 

here are some video's, the front end sitting low is PRE front end repairs. Thumping sounds from the loose parts up front that are now fixed. Yes this video is from early on of ownership of the car. We have put about 4500 miles on it.

 

Has a salvage title, eeek!


Dave

 

But they said it was only the Bumper Cover and Fender. HA HA HA HA

 

Had the front bumper cover replaced on my 98 last year, price was about $3500.00, then one headlight assembly added another $1000.00 all from a minor hit while parked. Add in the installation and finishing costs and the total exceeded $5000.00.
Add in the cost of a new fender, installation and finishing could be another couple thousand.
Some insurance companies might be afraid of more hidden damage and elect to cut their losses. Just saying....
Regards,

 

I've always wondered if that was a really big deal or not. When I was shopping for a car years ago for my son when he started to drive, I came across a few on self-sell lots that had salvage title for one reason or another. If the price is right and if the car basically checks out okay and if you don't care about resale or if you plan on keeping the car "forever" then what is the downside of a salvage title?

Doug

 

This looks like a really good buy. GLWS

 

They are new Khumo V or Z (I forget) rated tires on the car.

 

When I started looking at XK8's I was running across quite a few with salvage titles. To me the downsides were:

My insurance company would not insure a car with a salvage title. I called around and found companies that would but only for just liability. So if it got damaged or totaled you'd likely be on your own.

Most banks will not loan on a salvage title car. At first I was going to take out a loan so I could get a newer XK8 but ended up buying the one I have now with cash though it has a clean title and Carfax.

Also, you'd not always be able to tell if the work was done properly to correct the reason it was salvaged in the first place.

But I agree, if you can buy with cash and don't mind liability only coverage and the price is right and you want to keep it then you can sometimes find a great deal.



Dave