A lady friend of mine is asking my help in locating a XK8

Convertible.

I know a lot about Porsche models, but my knowledge of

Jaguar is limited.

Are there certain years to avoid and known problem areas

to look for ?

Any help will be appreciated.

 

2003 to 2006 are considered to be the most trouble free and reliable.

 

Yeah, they switched over to a Ford engine in 2003, although there were a few 2003 model year cars with the older engine. You want to look for a car with the 4.2 liter engine, not the 4.0. The 4.0 had a problem with the timing chain tensioners and the early models had a cylinder sleeve insert that caused problems. The problems with the older ones are fixable, but for just a little more money you can get a newer car that you don't have to worry about quite so much.

There are lots of little things to look for. I think in the FAQ thread there is a link to a list of things to check when buying an XK8.

 

Convertible top hydraulic hose leak on various model years at the latch. I replaced the hoses myself about 2 months ago. There's really no way of telling when it's going to leak, until you get the green shower.

Other than some quirky electrical things, my '99 has been fine. It's not a daily driver, so keep that in mind. Upgrade the timing chain tensioners on the earlier models.

 

Thanks for the great info.

I will try to lead her toward the 2003-06 model.