So, I need a recommendation for a shop to do an inspection and replace the chain and tensioners if needed.

 

While not in S.M. or W.L.A., the shop that I used (and continue to use for all of my cars) is in the Valley. Sako's Automotive in Northridge. Sako replaced tensioners, shock mounts, and virtually everything else on my 2002XKR convertible over the past 6 years (160,000 miles and still going strong). He also did an engine swap on my 2010 XKR coupe (as a condition for me to buy it) about a year and a half ago. Addditionally, he did all of the custom bodywork and paint on my 2010.

If you need an introduction just let me know.
Ted

 

I've used 2 independent shops but, again, in the San Fernando Valley. One is in Reseda on Wyandotte and is called European Auto Services. The guy who runs that place is Rene who happens to be the dad of the guy that runs Mina Gallery.

A much more "refined" shop is Just Jaguar on Woodman Avenue in Sherman Oaks. The guy I dealt with is Walt.

By the way I have occasionally seen a gold XK8 coupe that looks like yours near my office in Encino--is that you?

Doug

 

I've needed the same information! Finding good service in West LA has been a problem for me too. I have 1997 and 2001 XK8's.
Right Solution Inc, 8664 Venice at Cattaraugus, run by Walter Wong had been great, but they aren't deep Jaguar experts. They are primarily a Saab shop, willing to tackle my XK8 needs. Walter is honest and offers good ideas for practical solutions to my problems.
What shop(s) in West LA, South Bay, or LA are honest and expert who I can go to for engine management, computer, and electrical mysteries including Restricted Performance, intermittent starting problem, hesitation, emissions?

 

If you're referring to me. Nope. Mine is silver. Can you recommend Just Jaguar? Were you happy with the service?

 

My mistake--photo on my computer looked gold rather than silver.

I was basically happy with Just Jaguar. They are very experienced there and my understanding is that even the local dealer sometimes sends cars to them. They are probably a bit pricier than your typical small local shop but still more reasonable than the dealer. PM me if you like more info.

Doug

 

Reletive to West Los Angeles, where would you recommend going for repair of these Jaguar XK8 issues on 1997 and 2001MY?
· Restricted Performance diagnosis & resolution

· Intermittent electrical steering wheel control of radio
· Intermittent Stability Control Failure and ABS Failure light on
· Intermittent Airbag light on


Thank you

 

First thing is to have the battery checked.

Gus
www.jagrepair.com

 

Good point about the battery. Thanks to this forum, I could probably get far as a DIY diagnoser/ home mechanic. But I lack a garage and time. So as a practical matter I need to "outsource" to someone expert and honest. Most shops have little-to-no capability to get in deep and successfully on electrical/ computer control issues on an XK8. Thanks.

 

Though I have not gone to them Mitchell's British Automotive in Culver City has a stellar reputation. Mitchell's British Automotive Servicing Landrovers and Jaguars

Not cheap as I understand it. But, you never see a make other than Jaguars in their shop.

 

My experiences with Mitchell's convince me to stay away. For example, I bought a 2001 XK8 with an unresolved starting problem, despite having been taken to Mitchell's, and the seller suggested I talk to Mitchell's about it. I did, but Mitchell's gave me no serious information, and instead, they suggested I get the car running and sell it to Carmax. I now believe the problem is an intermittent ignition relay, so I bought a relay tester to DIY, but most of a year has gone by at this point. I've asked Mitchell's about other work, and left rather than entrust them with it.
Tensioner upgrade was discussed in this thread, so I contacted Sako's, Just Jag, and Rene at European Auto Service, and plan to have Rene do my tensioner upgrades.
I'll probably have Right Solution tackle my suspension, drive train, and brake work.
As for electronics savvy, I haven't found it yet, and I'd much prefer recommendations rather than trial and error. Thanks.

 

bob cutler jaguar in pasadena is a long respected mechanic. the local jag dealers even recommend him. in his lot are many gorgeous classic cats.