Hi everyone! So, about a month ago I started to consider buying a used Jaguar, specifically an '02-'04 X-Type. When I was in high school and throughout college I got to drive my dad's '02 X-Type quite a bit and I had some serious problems with it (I thought it was maybe just my dad...he's horrible with his cars), so I asked others what they thought (thanks, by the way to everyone who tossed in their thoughts...very appreciated) and came to the conclusion that it wasn't my dad, but the car. So now my wife isn't big on the idea of an X-Type and has suggested I look at the S-Type (she's always loved the S-Type).

I know the '03-'04 S-Types were more reliable than the '00-'02 models, and the '05-newer models were even more reliable. Unfortunately, I can't afford an '05 S-Type, at least not with the options I want (xenon, Alpine, & Nav.), so I'm looking at '03-'04. My question, can anyone shed some light on the long term reliability of these cars? Most of the cars I'm looking at have in excess of 60,000 miles. I drive about 20k - 25k miles/yr. and I would plan on keeping this car at least 3 years so I need something dependable, but I don't mind getting a little dirty to help maintain the car, but I also can't afford to drop a new transmission in a car 6 months from now.

I've always wanted to own my own Jag and recently have really had the ich to go buy one since I can actually afford to buy one due to the horrible resale value, but I don't want to get stuck with car that I'm going to regret in 6 months. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

Well. I bought a pre-owned 2003 S-Type in 2007, and it's still going strong at 65,000 miles! Very few minor problems--basically a squeaky steering wheel and a leaky oil pan--both repaired for free under warranty. Of course, I bought it as a Select Edition from the dealer who originally sold the car ( it was a lease return) so it was always dealer serviced . I bought the Easy Care extended warranty last December, so it's covered until October 2011. Truthfully, it has been the most trouble free car I've ever owned!

I think the trick is to purchase a car with a good service history, so do your homework first! IMHO a warranty doesn't hurt either, for peace of mind,even though you'll pay more for the vehicle up front .

 

That's pretty much my experience too, I bought a '03 in '07 I had the torque converter changed and the ac condenser replaced under warranty, I renewed the warranty and since then it has been good as gold touch wood.