I had the dealership replace the upper shock mounts on my 2004 XK8. Mine were disintegrating and really affected handling. I also have been living with a really HARSH shift from 1-2 (all other shifting seemed fine). The dealer downloaded the latest TCU software, and reset the adaptations. I cannot express how incredibly smooth this transmission is now. I have never experienced an automatic that is this smooth. And the upper shock mounts made a huge difference too. All other components underneath were fine. They did tell me though that I have 1 bad (warped) rear rim - which I suspected. I am wondering if anyone might have available for sale the standard 2004 XK8 rear rim 18x9 seven spooke alloy. If so, please let me know.

I want to say thanks again to all on this forum for your helpful information! I feel much more confident about owning this car than I would otherwise, and the information gained from the forum has definitely helped me and saved me money.

 

Did you do just the front tops or did you do top and bottom?

 

Hey steve, if the rear wheel is repairable, any local tire shop usually has a contract with a wheel refurbisher, and they can turn it around in 2 days. Last time i had one repaired, the ding was removed, wheel made perfectly 'round', and refinished the finish for $125...surely much cheaper than buying a wheel and getting it shipped/mounted.

 

I did just the tops. The lower shock mounts were fine according to the mechanic. I hope he was right, however I never had any concerns about them, no clunks or anything from them.

 

Good info (again why I love the forum), I didn't know this. I will check it out. Thank you