I have a friend that has run across a 2004 XJ8 Vanden plus that has 90k on it. What are the potential weak spots on this car with age and miles or what should be looked at to know true condition in this specific model.

This is a Texas car and clearly has been garaged. Interior is immaculate and hardly any wear even on driver's seat.

I appreciate any positives or negatives and what to look for as far as weak or often repaired items of the car.

Thanks

Tom in Plano/Dallas

 

Hi Tom,

Suspension and transmission are 2 areas right off the bat.

With the air suspension has the compressor or any struts been replaced? Does the car sit low after a day or two of not being used?

With the trans - all upshifts and downshifts smooth? Has the trans been serviced? If no or "I don't know" - tell your bud to offer $500 less as the trans is overdue for service.

Finally, if a lift is available pull the belly pan off and inspect the trans lines and pan for seepage or moisture indicating leaking trans lines/pan or sealing sleeve. Again, if this is found negotiate $400 - $500 less.

Replacement trans lines run around $250 and are a common issue.

 

And it is Vanden Plas

 

Understand, but did in a rush. Can you tell me anything to look for on the car?

Thanks

Tom

 

In addition to abonano's great advice, take a look at the coolant overflow tank. With age and under bonnet temperatures, the plastic can give way at the seams. Look for signs of seeping coolant (it will be orange not green).

The thermostat housing is also plastic, and at 12 years old and 90K miles either needs to be replaced or will need it soon.

 

The only thing about the 2004 VDP is that it is a SWB. The Long Wheel Base was not offered the first year. (Just like the X300)

bob

 

That would be fine in this case, but thanks for making note of such.

Tom

 

Apart from the air suspension, the suspension bushes don't last all that long. The good news is that replacements are now freely available on the 'net at much lower prices that Jaguar dealers supply. Having said that, Jaguar have "re-aligned" a lot of prices in response to criticism, this taking place under the new owners, Tata Motors of India.


The air suspension can be troublesome, but the most common repair is the compressor due to the piston seal wearing out. There is a DIY option but new compressors aren't all that expensive. The biggest problem with the air springs is replacing failed diaphragms. These units are a bit like a Macpherson strut with spring and damper combined. Now with a normal strut you can replace the steel coil spring very easily, but for some obscure reason this is a very difficult option with the air spring, why I don't know. Why throw away a perfectly good shock when all that is needed is the spring, for heavens sake !!
Arnott Industries in the US used to replace them, but don't anymore for some reason.


Basically, the car will go to Mars and back provided you can maintain it correctly. Neglect of servicing is not an option.