Newbie here .. for this post, I'll just share some info, and start other threads for particular issues. I see lots of posts on many bb's regarding price and value, so here are my stats. 2003 XK8 Black convertable with 75k in excellant condition, appearance wise anyway. I am aware of a couple of mechanical issues, but I consider brakes ... which are awesome, just to be a maintenance issue for any vehicle with 75k on it.

The bee-mer folks messed up I think, and faxed me total OTD price at less than trade in value, but they made it good. KBB is $19,970 .. I got it for $14,991, just based on camera-phone pics emailed by the saleslady. I see lots of variation in pricing all over the country as one might expect .. down in Silicon Valley, even used Jag's will command a premium I think.

For other newbies reading this, my decision to find an '03 or newer was made after reading extensively about some caveates about the earlier engines, and also, that the '03's came out with the six speed tranny.

What a blessing Ford took Jaguar under it's wing for a time .. lotta stuff from the LincolnLS, T-Birds, and Rovers similar under the hood. The XK's gotta be the most freakin' georgeous animal on 4 wheels.

Attachments not allowed yet .. made jpg of production numbers .. will post it after I beome knighted here :-) ... For the 2003 XK8 convertable, total production was a whopping 2,280 vehicles. Have Fun, Be Safe

 

Congrats and welcome aboard, as they say. Where the heck is Mendo Calinorte???

Anyway, having bought a convertible the very first thing you should be considering is checking out the hydraulic system for any obvious leaks and then installing the pressure check valve. Look in the FAQ section for this and more information.

Doug

 

Welcome attaboy, +1 on the pressure reducing valve...small investment that will save you thousands later on. Looking forward to the pics!

From another '03 owner, who approached the purchase of the xk8 just like you did, hope you enjoy the forum.

 

Doug,
I believe he is telling us he is in Mendocino County, Northern California

According to the San Jose Mercury, the biggest cash crop up there
is marijuana.

 

Have you seen the movie Reefer Madness?? http://video.google.com/videoplay?do...2420128930236#

 

Welcome attaboy! I just bought an 03 XKR convertible and I like you am glad to have an 03 or newer for the same reasons. I second the advice about the convertible top pressure relief valve. I installed one on my car a few weeks after I bought the car after reading the horror stories about the convertible top hoses leaking. I can`t tell you how mad I`d be to have hydraulic oil spraying the interior of this unbelievably beautiful car. You would hear me cursing all the way to California! Welcome to the forum and enjoy that exceptional automobile!!

 

FYI, thread moderated.

 

darn good thing too .. thanks :-)