How is the reliability for the earlier S-Types? Trying to figure out if it would be a good option over a X300 or X308..

 

Go for a late S-Type dude, i.e. 2003 or later S-Type Sport 4.2 litre (300 hp @ 310 lb/ft trq.) or S-Type R (4.2 litre 400 hp @ 410 lb/ft trq.).

 

Not good! search the forums and there are not alot of picture stories.

 

I have been doing a lot of searching and noticed some people are having tonnes of issues, and some people are cool..

 

Reliability and updated design came to fruition on later model "S"'s (03-08).

 

Get an '06 or newer with the "certified pre-owned" or "select edition" warranty. That way you'll have the Jaguar 6 year or 100,000 mile warranty, it does give peace of mind. I've had mine for just over two years and have had only one minor repair which was done under the original factory warranty.
Unfortunately, I had to get an aftermarket extended warranty, but (I feel) it's a good one if I ever need it.

 

Jay, what aftermarket warranty did you buy? I'm in the market for one too.

 

The reason you see more horror stories on forums is due to people that don't have issues with the car usually don't post.

 

True, but the S-Types do have a number of well-documented issues that must be resolved. No question that the later years are better, though. The research I did in December 2008 convinced me not to consider an S-Type earlier than the 2005 model year....

 

I have Easy Care with the "Total Care Package". It's quite comprehensive and covers a lot of problems. It cost about $3,000, the dealer rolled it into the price and dropped the price of the Jag a bit to help out.

www.easycare.com

My car is on a 4 year lease and the extended warranty expires when the lease does. I got the car on 6-29-2008, so I'm good until 6-28 2012.
The car has some minor exterior blemishes which (I think) precluded it from being a Select Edition.
On any after market warranty, be sure to read the FAQ's on how to go about having any covered work done. If not precisely followed, the
claim(s) can be rejected. I found out the hard way a couple of decades ago when I didn't follow the rules.

 

Thanks for the warranty info and advice Jay.

 

You're welcome...happy motoring...

 

I'm not a representative of any warranty company but a consumer like you. My dealer sold me AUL Corp saying "They are good" and I didn't know if I made the right decision or not.

But man, this warranty is cool. I had to claim it on O2 Sensor and Oil Pan Gasket replacement costing $800. My Repair shop called them and they got the approval in 1 minute being on phone!

The one I have is Estate which covers huge number of repairs including electronics bla bla and it costed me only $1800 (with $100 co pay) good for 3 years or 36000 miles, they even cover diagnosis fee (if diagnosis uncover some repair which is covered).

Here's their website, if you are interested.

https://www.aulcorp.com/

Thanks & Best Regards,
Rizwan

 

After doing quite a bit of research on the subject, I would definately not buy an S-Type prior to the 2003 model year. Not only are the earlier 4.0 motors and 5 speed autos prone to trouble, the car itself had major revisions. The 03s look the same as the 02s, but the 03s have a stiffer body structure, aluminum suspension, revised springs and shocks, a new and vastly better dashboard, and better interior.

Actually, I would not buy any Jag with a 4.0 V-8 motor. There have been too many problems with these motors.

 

That's why I recommened the vastly superior and stronger 4.2 V8 (300 hp @ 310 lb/ft torque).

 

I have American Automotive Service, $100 deductible almost bumper to bumper(body work blemishes not covered) it was $2640

and I agree get 2k3+ run from the 2002-

 

Own two 2003 Select Edition type S's, his and hers since 2004. Exept for an early a/c changeout have had no major problems involving reliability. Have had trunk leakage on one cause misdiagnosed by dealer, but fixed. Cars kept on extended warranties and most problems covered. Extensive research prior to purchase of wifes car and perfomance led to purchase of second for me. Consumer reports (among others) publishes repair records on most cars covering years of consumers reports of problems catorgized by major parts. Those are actual repairs reported by users. My view of many opinions expressed in Forums, Lovers, etc. are made by many problem reporters who do not do any research, like reading owners manuals, and otherr available information. As prevously reported by a Good Samariten, go with 2003, or later. NOT with earlier model type S's. Good Luck

 

After going through this forum and others, purchased a 2003 manual 3.0, the car's electric system is a disaster! to say the least. If you are not ready for surprises, do not purchase this car!
I owned many cars, some were 80's Ferrari's that were notorious for electric gremlins, but nothing compares to this S Type electric issues!

 

What do you mean by "disaster"? You are something approaching unique in this claim.

 

Wow, guys, After reading some of these posts, I'm thinking I should just go to the nearest cliff and drive mine off it right now.

For the record, yes many issues, the trans being the number one because if not replaced it will have to be soon and that has more to do with leaking of fluid caused by bad design of lines to cool it running to radiator and back. The thought of purchase really depends on what type of use. With any car, 2003 or younger, you are going to have issues over time. My comments have always been to others when they comment how great the car looks, it is not the luxury of being able to afford to buy a Jag that labels or sets a person apart, but the luxury of being able to afford the repairs on one that really sets them apart.
Depends on how you are going to drive and use the car. My wife drives it 5 miles a day back and forth to work and it is garage kept. We have a back up car and in bad weather, it never leaves the garage. Use it to go out on weekends but never for any type of long trips. If that is your intent or similar use, and you are able to do a lot of the repairs (which frankly I find enjoyable and relaxing and a great hobby), not a bad car to have. And I am finding, once I do the fix, and maintain the car as it should be, holds up for its age like any other.
The other great sell on keeping the car is this site. If not for the great people on it, the car would have been long gone. But you find with patience and giving correct details and response, the members on this site have all the answers and can steer you where to buy parts, give great detail and visual help with pics and files. I know if I have any issue, I can come here and get the right help.