Here comes the details:

1. 2000 model. Looks awesome, dark blue with a black canvas top.
   
2. VIN SAJJA42C2YNA02688
   
3. Owner has had the car since 2003, one previous owner.
   
4. Has been serviced by & sold by British Motor Company in San Francisco.
   
5. It is a second car so only goes out in fair weather. It is garaged.
   
6. The timing chains were replaced [metal replaced the original which I understand were plastic & were prone to problems] when the engine was replaced in 2004 at 41,000
   
7. Transmission assembly was renewed in 2005 at 49,000 miles
   
8. The hydraulics for the roof were replaced 2006 at 55,000 miles
   
9. All work has been carried out by British Motor Cars in SF & Hills Motors in San Carlos
   
10. Recent works include regular service, & minor adjustments & checks.
    
11. All maintenance records available

I think I can get it for about 9k, any ideas as to what to look for with this particular car? I've read about "usual suspects" in other threads

Thank!
Jagosaurus

 

For that price, that is great having known all that work has been done.

 

You appear to have two of the major issues covered. An all encompassing list of used purchase issues specific to the XK8/R can can be found there:

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/s...38&postcount=5

Other links on common problems can be found at the top of the forum at the top of the FAQ Sticky.

Sounds like a well maintained car at a good price. Any paint or interior issues? I would suggest that you look at the Owners Manual for the feature operations and check each one; power windows, seats, seat heater, A/C operation, etc, etc. Remember that a failed A/C in a car like this can cost as much as a transmission to repair.

The one special attention area I would suggest is the front suspension. Check for uneven tire wear, shimmy at all speeds, clunks over small bumps, etc.

Good luck in purchasing an used car is a result of due diligence.

 

Thanks, great advice! I'll make a checklist to bring with me

And I'm sure the more flaws I find (that I can live with) the better price I can get. Any bargaining tips would also be appreciated.

 

I was under the impression that the metal tensioners didn't come out till 2005, you might want to double check if you buy the car. Sounds like a great deal.

charliepace

 

Metal tensioners were introduced for 02

 

First, does it pass the smog test?

What is the current odometer reading?

Will the seller let you take it to the independant Jaguar shop on Valencia St. to check it before you buy it?

With several major parts being replaced, check that they were not replaced with used parts of unknown quality.

Read about how some transmissions can lurch when coming to a rolling stop and then trying to accelerate briskly.

Go for a test drive to see if you like the ride and the steering. The tires & wheels do affect it. Take turns driving, so you can observe & listen when the other person is driving.

 

Take the car to a shop and give them $100 to check it out. This is money well spent.

 

It's curious that the engine was replaced with only 41,000 miles but I suppose that was a Nikasil problem? I wonder if they replace with a 4.0 liter or 4.2 liter since it was done in 2004? Also, the transmission assembly being 'renewed' with only 49,000 miles also sounds odd.


Doug

 

Most likely the timming chain jumped and they replaced the engine on warranty. You need to find out what they replaced the original motor with. If it is a 2004 4.2 that would be a plus, but I am guessing it was a "rebuilt" 4.0.