I have been in love with the XJS for many years. I have always avoided buying one as I have heard their reliability, availability of parts, and 12 cylinder engine are real problems. One is currently for sale in my area, and I figured now is the time to get some straight answers. I have always been under the impression that I could afford the car itself, but the repair bills and parts would make the car unaffordable in the long run. I am sure I could find a local mechanic who loves Jaguars too, but he would have to make a living. The one that is availble I would estimate is a 1992-1994 convertible. If anyone has some straight talk, I'd love to hear it, as I would like to jump on the available one, if feasible. Thank you in advance for your help.

Submitted by dougdwyer1@com… on Thu, 08/23/2007 - 22:37

A few high points....just scratching the surface.

* make sure the cooling sytem is up to snuff. The V12 engine is a rugged beastie but will not tolerate overhating at all. Normal driving in moderate temperatures shouldn't put the temp needle higher than the middle of the "N".

* check that the climate control is funtional in all modes. Some of the repairs here are tricky and expensive

* proof that rear brake calipers and rotors, and rear axle seals, have already been replaced is a real "plus". Big job if they haven't and this car is at the age where it probably would need them

* check the trunk for fuel odors, a very common and sometimes difficult problem to solve. If this car is odor free its another "plus".

If in any doubt have the car inspected by a good Jag-man. And save room in the budget for some post sale work.

Cheers
Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1995 XJR

Submitted by r.bentley1@cox.net on Thu, 08/23/2007 - 19:29

Thank you all for your responses. I have found an XJS that I think will fill the bill. It is a 1991 Coupe in Brooklands Green, and it is what's called the Classic Collection. Apparently this model was the last of the original body style, which was changed in 1992. The asking price is under 10k, and I can buy a 3 year "everything that takes fluid" warranty. Does anyone have an experience or advise on such a vehicle? Thanks for your help.

Submitted by dougdwyer1@com… on Mon, 08/13/2007 - 16:06

An inspection by a good Jag-man would be a good idea, yes.

Unless you find an exceptional example (usually at a higher price than most others, and usually worth it) the typical scenario with used Jags of this vintage....especially if they've been sitting unused....to to spend a chunk of money and/or time sorting out neglected repairs and overdue servicings. Sadly, many have rec'd the proper care, especially after getting up there in age. After everything is caught up you can start really enjoying the car and then just tackle the odd repairs as they crop up....and they will !

Great cars and very rewarding, but not the type you can just drive and forget about.

Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1995 XJR

Submitted by NC43-62049 on Mon, 08/13/2007 - 13:23

Edited on 2007-08-13 13:24:35

I am fortunate to have access to a Jaguar mechanic for $75/hour.

The XJS or the Series III XJ12/VDP have the best bargain deal on a Jauguar bar none if the car is solid and well maintained. There is always something to fix on these cars but they are no worse than any other luxury car of the same vintage.

Our car is pushing 200k (about 100k miles) and going strong and will probably make it to 500k.

Why not have the car professionally inspected before buying it? What seller would object?

Regards,
Dan Lokun
Toronto Canada
90 XJ-S
62 XKE

Submitted by NC43-62049 on Mon, 08/13/2007 - 13:23

I am fortunate to have access to a Jaguar mechanic for $75/hour.

An XJS or Series III XJ have the best bargain deal on a Jauguar bar none if the car is solid and well maintained. There is always something to fix on these cars but they are no worse than any other luxury car of the same vintage.

Our car is pushing 200k (about 100k miles) and going strong and will probably make it to 500k.

Why not have the car professionally inspected before buying it? What seller would object?

Regards,
Dan Lokun
Toronto Canada
90 XJ-S
62 XKE

Submitted by r.bentley1@cox.net on Mon, 08/13/2007 - 12:53

Hello David- Thank you for your reply. I have found out that the car is a 1992 with the V12, heated seats, power seats, and convertible. It has been sitting for a few years, and has only 42k miles. I have read that this is not a good thing- the sitting around can dry out seals, etc. I drove it this morning, and WOW!. I have memories of these cars when I used to be in the automotive electronics business. I installed security systems and audio systems in these cars for a local dealer in the 1980's. I have been smitten ever since. Any guidance would be appreciated. Thank you. Bob Bentley

Submitted by dpandrew@hotmail.com on Sun, 08/12/2007 - 18:31

Dear Robert,

Maybe you should go for the XJS convertible 94-96 which uses the 4.0 litre 6 cylinder engine and which I believe is easier to repair and also has a good reliability record (maybe th 94-96 V12 also has a good record)
It depends what kind of performance you are after or if you need the silky delivery of the V12.

David