I’m expecting to hear from my insurer that my ‘06 Radiance Pearl VDP was totaled by a falling tree. I’m pondering the switch from big sedans to an XK ragtop. I’m here looking for a little guidance on things to watch for in a purchase and understand about its weak spots. I am primarily interested in models with the 4.2 engine, and years ‘04-09, but willing to look at ‘97-03. I realize there’s a separate list for the ‘07-upwards and will post this there as well. I do like the idea of having some roll-over protection, though I’m not an aggressive driver.

I am aware of the timing chain issue on the 4.0, nikasil, green rain, and the fact a “sealed for life” ZF HP26 transmission really needs to have fluid/filter replaced at 60K. Are there any other real biggies out there me or my mechanic should be looking for? Is the supercharger reliable over an extended period were I to get an R? Is the early cup holder design easily repairable/replaceable?

My personal desires in the way of equipment on the car are Bluetooth (it can pipe phone calls into my hearing aids); and a 6-CD changer. A heated steering wheel would be nice. I know Jag navigation is a joke and I just use my phone anyway. Are there other creature comforts a 70-year-old might like? Is it possible even over short distances to place a small adult turned mostly sideways in what otherwise might be the grocery bag back “alleged” seating area?

Is there perhaps a single source on this website to which I could be pointed?

I thank everyone in advance for their willingness to offer advice.

Eliot Brenner
Annandale, Va.

 

In reply to an adult sitting sideways for a short trip I would say yes. My wife sat like this for a 25mile journey last year and didn't mind too much. Whatever car out of your list you end up with they are all superb. Hope you get one that makes you happy. Good luck with the hunt.

 

I'm not sure the XK8/R was ever offered with a heated steering wheel, so sadly that may go by the wayside. The 4.0 supercharged cars do not have variable valve timing, and if my sources are correct the first generation of 4.2 supercharged cars don't either, so that's one less thing to go wrong, not that it's a huge problem. The supercharger itself also needs attention at some point, with its own "sealed for life" oil that should be changed every so often, and its bearings and internal coupler mechanism can cause problems at higher mileages, though there's no specific service interval for them. I got mine partially rebuilt with new rear bearings, coupler, and fluid, though at that point it had over 110k miles; at that time I also got a bunch of engine bay hoses changed thanks to heat deterioration or just plain age.

 

Re cup holders: friend even if they work I can't imagine you'd ever use them. Way too close to elbows for my tastes.
re: earlier cars, what color is the top of the dashboard? Early ones, like mine, can have lighter colors. It's a small thing, but yes, if you don't have polarized sunglasses on it reflects a bit in the windshield on sunny days.
from what I've seen later years are all dark dashboard cowls.
other stuff:
i really value the seat heaters. Probably gets cold enough in DC. You can use the top down in pretty cold weather with the heater's.
I'd prefer an X100 with the Trac Off button. It was an option over the standard DSC.
I recently learned they all don't come with cruise control, I'd miss that.
Bluetooth can be added to any of the years. Since I added it I never used the CD player again. Besides being more convenient, it sounds better than stock CD player too.
I'd look for a car with the premium sound system option too.
Auto side mirrors would be fun, but I can only imagine. Do you have many 10mph 2 lane bridges where you live?

Wipers auto on option? heated windshield? Never ever missed it, but more importantly that feature nearly doubles the price of replacing the windshield.

John

 

Sorry to hear that your Jag was wrecked by a fallen tree.

The X100 is a fantastic beast to consider but as you are aware old Jags can be expensive to fix. I personally went with Gen1 for a project car to have fun with in the garage.... plus it was virtually free, given on the condition I restore it.

If you are looking for reliability, go for the Gen3 2004-2006 models as most of the earlier problems were fixed.

If you find a good earlier model, check if the following work has been done:
1. Engine chain tensioners upgraded
2. Suspension mounts recently changed
3. Transmission ATF and filter R&R
4. Plastic Coolant tower changed to aluminium
5. Coolant cross over pipe plastic okay
6. Steering pump & rack not leaking

Most of the other issues are age related, so usual suspects - suspension bushes, battery, cabin heat pump etc. which I’m sure you’re aware of.

Hope you make a good choice. Most forum members here happily pass on tips and repair hacks. It’s a great place to get/give advice.

 

Very thorough information from these guys but I want to add: a ragtop XK, XK8, or XKR will offer you even less protection from falling trees than your Vanden Plas could. I just thought you should know that.

:tongue in cheek:

 

Wow, thanks for such a helpful list. I knew about the timing chain and I had the transmission issue (allegedly sealed for life ZF HP26) in my subconscious as I was about to do that with my VDP. I think the coolant pipe you are referencing goes across the top of the block and gets brittle with heat if I recall correctly. Whatever I find, I've got a good mechanic who can spot pre-purchase issues for me and help repair them at a reasonable cost if necessary. Sadly, I don't have a garage at my townhouse, so self maintenance is not always possible.

Thank you again.