CD Article: Jaguar XJ, 1995-2003

[CD_Editor]

You may discuss our cover story of the day in this thread....
Used Vehicle Review:

Though the Jaguar XJ doesn't have a great reputation for reliability, it's no worse than used BMWs and Audis, says Contributing Editor, Chris Chase.   He recommends buying a post 1998 model with the V8 engine, preferably one sold under Jaguar's certified pre-owned banner.  As XJs depreciate more quickly than their German competitors, there are bargains to be had, he notes.
   
   More...

[Bullet Blue]

Great used car buy if you plan to keep it for a long time, though I would still be weary for long term reliability. Apparently it's not worse than BMW or Audi according to Chris. I'm still eying those X-types 

[Mitlov]

Apparently it's not worse than BMW or Audi according to Chris.

Looking at the Consumer Reports ratings for the 7-Series, that comment is more criticism of the Bimmer than praise of the XJ.

[Arthur Dent]

Those are seriously nice cars but likely best to admire someone elses

[johngenx]

Great used car buy if you plan to keep it for a long time, though I would still be weary for long term reliability. Apparently it's not worse than BMW or Audi according to Chris. I'm still eying those X-types 

Arrgh!  Stop!

Weary:
–adjective
1.   physically or mentally exhausted by hard work, exertion, strain, etc.; fatigued; tired: weary eyes; a weary brain.
2.   characterized by or causing fatigue: a weary journey.
3.   impatient or dissatisfied with something (often fol. by of): weary of excuses.
4.   characterized by or causing impatience or dissatisfaction; tedious; irksome: a weary wait.

I think you mean WARY...

–adjective
1.   watchful; being on one's guard against danger.
2.   arising from or characterized by caution: to give someone a wary look.

[mdxtasy]

I think this car looks wary nice too. 

[The Mighty Duck]

Jag cars do look quite nice.  Very distinctive - for a while there they were one of my favourite sedan shapes.  I prefer something a bit more aggressive/sporty now, but Jag does have a very elegant look, imho.

Given the price point, I could definately see myself in one of these were I looking for a used luxury car.  Very attractive used pricing...

[Bullet Blue]

Great used car buy if you plan to keep it for a long time, though I would still be weary for long term reliability. Apparently it's not worse than BMW or Audi according to Chris. I'm still eying those X-types 

Arrgh!  Stop!

Weary:
–adjective
1.   physically or mentally exhausted by hard work, exertion, strain, etc.; fatigued; tired: weary eyes; a weary brain.
2.   characterized by or causing fatigue: a weary journey.
3.   impatient or dissatisfied with something (often fol. by of): weary of excuses.
4.   characterized by or causing impatience or dissatisfaction; tedious; irksome: a weary wait.

I think you mean WARY...

–adjective
1.   watchful; being on one's guard against danger.
2.   arising from or characterized by caution: to give someone a wary look.

Thanks for that. I'll be more WARY of typos in the future.

[Giant Dwarf]

Great used car buy if you plan to keep it for a long time, though I would still be weary for long term reliability. Apparently it's not worse than BMW or Audi according to Chris. I'm still eying those X-types 

Arrgh!  Stop!

Weary:
–adjective
1.   physically or mentally exhausted by hard work, exertion, strain, etc.; fatigued; tired: weary eyes; a weary brain.
2.   characterized by or causing fatigue: a weary journey.
3.   impatient or dissatisfied with something (often fol. by of): weary of excuses.
4.   characterized by or causing impatience or dissatisfaction; tedious; irksome: a weary wait.

I think you mean WARY...

–adjective
1.   watchful; being on one's guard against danger.
2.   arising from or characterized by caution: to give someone a wary look.

Ha ha!  The math teacher goes on the language war-path lately!  (incidentally, I was quietly applauding the "moot" vs. "mute" lesson the other day).

***

As Mitlov pointed out, I'm not sure that comparing the XJs to the hideously unreliable 7-series is praise for the Jag.  Still, I have been hearing more and more that the post-98 XJs are considerably better built than Jags of days gone by.  I believe Thos Bryant of Road and Track bought out their long-term XJ at the end of the test because he was so impressed with it (a few years ago).

[Bullet Blue]

Great used car buy if you plan to keep it for a long time, though I would still be weary for long term reliability. Apparently it's not worse than BMW or Audi according to Chris. I'm still eying those X-types 

Arrgh!  Stop!

Weary:
–adjective
1.   physically or mentally exhausted by hard work, exertion, strain, etc.; fatigued; tired: weary eyes; a weary brain.
2.   characterized by or causing fatigue: a weary journey.
3.   impatient or dissatisfied with something (often fol. by of): weary of excuses.
4.   characterized by or causing impatience or dissatisfaction; tedious; irksome: a weary wait.

I think you mean WARY...

–adjective
1.   watchful; being on one's guard against danger.
2.   arising from or characterized by caution: to give someone a wary look.

Ha ha!  The math teacher goes on the language war-path lately!  (incidentally, I was quietly applauding the "moot" vs. "mute" lesson the other day).

***

I'd like to point out that I don't need a lesson in the different meanings/ definitions of the two words. I know the difference. As I said, it was a mere typo. Not my fault that the 'e' is located directly next to the 'w' on the keyboard. Probably is my fault for typing too quickly though 

As for the XJ vs. 7-series comparo, I agree, it isn't exacly praise for the Jag, but still gives people something to consider when comparing the two models and I'm sure that's what Chris wanted to point out.

[random006]

Firstly, let us admit freely that Jags are lovely cars.  They define the love of the automobile for many and it is because of this love they are purchased.  It is an emotional thing, through and through.

Given that reasoning, if one is set on buying such a beastie, worrying about reliability should not be high on one's list.  Otherwise, the car will never be enjoyed at the level it demands.  If you want it and can afford it then buy it and enjoy it.

Of course, one should buy with care but once bought, let the repairs happen as they will.

I would love to own one but most likely they are beyond my means.  A used X-Type might work out but...

[Scaerio]

As Mitlov pointed out, I'm not sure that comparing the XJs to the hideously unreliable 7-series is praise for the Jag.  Still, I have been hearing more and more that the post-98 XJs are considerably better built than Jags of days gone by.  I believe Thos Bryant of Road and Track bought out their long-term XJ at the end of the test because he was so impressed with it (a few years ago).

IIRC, the UK's Car mag had a 2005 or 2006 XJ as a long-termer, and had no trouble with it, which surprised the writers...

[safristi]

Yeah    But at 50 Quid a POP ta Visit Chelsea (NO NOT HER..the BURDS)fer tha BIRDS...it prolly stayed inna Garage and thet took tha TOOBE.... all my Lurve  all my lurve.....

[Mitlov]

Still, I have been hearing more and more that the post-98 XJs are considerably better built than Jags of days gone by.

In other news, getting kicked in the happy-sack is "considerably better" than having the happy-sack hooked up to a car battery.

[johngenx]

I'd like to point out that I don't need a lesson in the different meanings/ definitions of the two words. I know the difference. As I said, it was a mere typo.

Ah, there is another poster that continually uses weary instead of wary, and I thought it was you, hence the correction.  Hopefully that individual sees this thread...

[safristi]

  click on MY rifle...........

[articsteve]

For example, cruise over to the forums at TheCarLounge.net and search for threads on the XJ and many posters there who have experience with these cars say that the XJ is actually quite dependable and that the 4.0-litre V8 introduced in 1998 is a tough motor. One poster and former owner of a 1995 XJR believes that the 1999-2001 XJ is as reliable as a Lexus LS400 from the same years

     I'd be WEARY about that.

Try http://www.jag-lovers.org for Jag info


You mentioned in an earlier note ...

"Tensioners are a real issue, but preventable. Their failure is more common
in 1997-1999s, but all of the 4 litre V8s will need to have them at least
inspected by 50K miles and definently changed between 60 and 80K miles.
This isn't any more or less outrageous than timing belt changes on most any
car built today. It is
expensive, however, because of Jag labor costs and the special tools
(ironically, the tensionsers are only $90/ea.) "

Although it may be completely true, I find it very difficult to believe that
Jaguar had major engine design flaws for at least seven (7) models years
(97-03) where the 4.0 V8 was the mainstay engine of the fleet and it was
never corrected. Yes ... timing chain tensioners with an absurdly low
longevity is a MAJOR engine design flaw. It is absolutely not the same as
replacing a timing belt on some other contemporary engine as this task can
be performed for just a fraction of the cost of replacing 4.0 V8 tensioners.
If this is universally true for Jaguar 4.0 engines, who would ever want this
problem?

It is true that nikasil engines were a definite problem for model years 1997
through 2000. Yes, 2000 models were also nikasil as the sleeved engines did
not appear to the 2001 model years. I was under the impression (perhaps
falsely) that a second generation of timing chain tensioner design was
available (and utilized) for at least model year 2001 and later that
resolved these earlier (97 through 00) problems. The timing chain used on
the 4.2 V8 is not a typical roller chain design. Instead it is a Morse
chain design and to my understanding, these tensioners are different as well
(improved). This chain design is supposed to be able to handle far more
cyclic stress than the large roller design used on the 4.0s. By the way,
this stress is a result of the variable intake cam timing feature.

>From personal "indirect" experience from friends, and statements made on
this List, I would not touch a pre-2001 4.0 Jaguar V8 ... just too damn many
"potential" engine problems. I have not seen that damning information about
the latter years of the X308 designs (2001 through 2003) and would consider
one of these XJs as a good daily driver. What's the facts? If your
statement is true, there will be no 4.0 V8s in my future.

Are the Ford derived V6 engines (with chain drive cams) a better design than
the 4.0 V8? From your discussion, it seems about every other V8 engine in
mass production is better as I don't know of any of them needing chain
tensioner replacement at really low mileage intervals. Let's be real ...
timing chain tensioners should last the life of the engine ... not 25%.

John P.

The V8 chain and tensioner replacement is a bit more complicated
than the golf timing belt, but not by too much. The process itself
is straight forward, but you must use the Jaguar tools for locking
the cam shafts and crankshaft in the correct orientation.
Otherwise, the timing will be off when everything goes back
together. There are many excellent articles and posts on the
replacement.

The secondary tensioners are actually pretty simple and can be done
in a day if you work diligently. You only have to remove the valve
covers and some other ancillaries to do them. Figure on roughly 4
hours per side.

The primary tensioners, guide rails and chains require much more
disassembly, about another 4-6 hours. In addition to all of the
items for the secondaries, you will need to remove the entire front
cover, harmonic balancer, etc. None of this is difficult, but it
is time consuming and clearances can be tight for removing the
harmonic balancer and its bolt.

The real question is how much time do you have and how much do you
consider a savings? You'll need a full weekend to do all the
tensioners and chains. Parts will run you around $500-600
depending on which sources you use. You will also need two
camshaft locking tools ($200/ea) and the crank locking pin ($80).
A good source for the tools is motorcars ltd.; though some posters
may be able to loan you the tools. Anyways, in parts and tools,
you are looking at $800 - 1,000. (USD)

My local independent tech charges $1,500 to replace the secondaries
but only an additional 400 - 500 to do the whole thing. These
prices are higher than those some other posters have received, so
you can shop around a bit. Surprisingly, my three local dealers
were right around the same price . . .

[Eric Green]

Jaguar 1995-1997 X300 (AJ16) Checklist
Common Problems/Weaknesses after 10 years/100,000 miles

1. Cracks in exhaust manifold.
2. Faint LCD clock display segments.
3. Leaking automatic dimming rear view mirror – free replacement from Magna Donnelly (improved model).
4. Oil pressure sender fails – early models only.
5. Seat memory (small changes?) and stiff front to back movement switch.
6. Fuel sender only showing 3/4 full when tank full – clean or renew
sender unit.
7. Rust spots along windscreen rubber area - visual check.
8. Failed steering wheel motor, either the up/down (tilt) or in/out
(drive coupling shaft fails).
9. Leaking camshaft cover seal - check the front of the head for oil
leaks – renew seal.
10. Cylinder head gasket – slight oil loss near oil galley – renew with
improved version.
11. Front lower wishbone bushes worn - renew.
12. Split on front downpipe – repair by welding.
13. Rust on rear wheel arches (pre ‘95 models).
14. Radio fails to recognise CD player (NOT CONT) – (re)solder SMD
component.
15. Rough idle – use correct sparking plugs.
16. Dirty throttle body – can lead to stiff throttle/rough idle – clean.
17. Corroding rear bumper supports - renew.
18. Mouldy smell when air conditioning switched on or off – clean
evaporator.
19. Timing chain rattle – fit new-style tensioner.
20. Worn front shock absorber isolators cause clunking noises from front of car - renew.
21. Worn lower radiator mounting bushes - renew.
22. Leaking power steering high-pressure hose – renew every 100,000 km.
23. Petrol tank takes ages to completely fill – clean pipe to charcoal
canister.
24. Failed J-gate lighting – renew bulb or use a green 12V LED.
25. Premium sound rear woofer cone detaching from voice coil.
26. Sagging headliner (hot climates only).
27. Cable(s) through boot lid hinge can fracture.
28. Worn driver’s seat bolsters.
29. Corroded valve cover.
30. Loose flex (Jurid) driveshaft fitting – tighten.
31. Broken fins on rear centre-vent.
32. Bad brake/park microswitch – adjust.
33. Heater water pump fails – renew brushes (brushes not available from Jaguar).
34. Interior lights flicker – clean or renew rear door microswitch.
35. Boot lock barrel seized – clean and lubricate (graphite powder) -
use regularly to avoid problem.
36. Worn A-frame bushes cause knocking noises from rear of car – renew.
37. Supercharger pulley bearing fails – renew.
38. Dash lights fail or intermittent – renew/repair ECU in steering column.
39. Bowden cable to open driver’s door fails – renew or repair.
40. Dull/misty headlamps – clean the INSIDE of the glasses using a
polishing compound,
41. Cracked seat frame – weld together.
42. Leaking oil bypass O-rings - renew.
43. Leaking CPS O-ring - renew.
44. Loose upper steering column.
45. Loose front undertray.
46. Play in driver’s seat tracks.
47. Corroded bulkhead post terminal.
48. High level brake light comes unstuck – re-glue.
49. Bonnet insulation rubbing on valve cover.
50. Door stay breaks away from door.
51. Crankshaft position sensor fails - renew every 100,000 miles.

Also, A/C compressor robust, but $3K from dealer to replace weaker condenser, drier and proprietary A/C lines.  An A/C-Delco shop can do it for half this.

Eric Green
95 XJ6 VDP owner

[chrischasescars]

Try http://www.jag-lovers.org for Jag info



[/b]

Yup; Jag-Lovers.com is mentioned in the Online Resources bit at the bottom of the article.

Eric - nice post. Thanks for the contribution.

[articsteve]

Yup; Jag-Lovers.com is mentioned in the Online Resources bit at the bottom of the article.

My bad.  After I read the bit about the 99-01 Lexus V8 as having the same reliability as the same year XJ V8's, a motor that cost Jag a small fortune in warranty claims,  I stopped reading. 

2 main motor problems with the 300X8s:

1. 98-early 2001 was the Nikasil disaster similar to the early small BMW 530 V8.
2. the chain tensioner(s) fiasco; 3 designs in 6 years.

In reply to a message from PHILIP DEAN sent Tue 27 Feb 2007:

http://forums.jag-lovers.org/avsn.php?946538m30

Phil, I'm with you. How can Jaguar expect to build product loyalty
when, they will not stand by their product?

Leaving aside Nikasil, look what's happened with the X308. There's
been 3 generations of tensioners in a model that was in production
for barely 6 years. Obviously, the original and first replacement
were not fit for purpose. If you were out of warranty and needed
replacements, did Jaguar care? Of course not. Same with water
pumps. These faiure of either of these 2 items could leave an
owner with a repair bill well in excess of the cars value. The
failure, in most cases, is not caused by wera and tear or poor
maintenance but, design or manufacture faults which should be
Jaguars responsibility, not the owners