Used 1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan Consumer Reviews
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A Good Car for the Money
For years, Jaguar has had a poor reputation for mechanical quality. However, in my experience, that has not been the case. I bought my 1998 Jaguar XJ8 as-is for about $11,000 with 72K miles. So far I have not had unexpected mechanichal problems, just routine work. I really enjoy the vehicle. The rapid depreciation of these vehicles, in large part due to Jaguars mechanical problems of the past, makes them very affordable for your average person. Just a couple of suggestions: 1) Buy 1998 or after- thats when electrical system was replaced by Ford, 2) Make sure to get a pre-purchase inspection, and 3) if you need to buy parts, go on ebay, since the Jaguar dealer markup is huge.
Don't even think about it!!
Bought 'certified Jag' hoping to get a good reliable car, no such luck. The car has a tendancy to loose all power, I mean ALL POWER while traveling down the freeway at 70mph. Not a good thing. Has been in the shop 9 times for problems ranging from the rear view mirror dripping chemicals, to replacing the front ball joints (3 times) and rod ends, to replacing the throttle assembly (twice - the cause of the freeway melt down). Fun to drive when it is up and running. Havn't had a problem in 7 months. Fingers crossed!
A lot of car for a little cash.
So many people like to put down Jaguars, the car not the cat, I would bet good money few of them have owned one or even sat in one, I know my car is knocking on the door of it's 10th year, but you couldn't tell by driving it, the interior is still pretty fresh and I like to look at the car too. I feel like I'm driving an $80,000 car, I know it's only $6000 now, but the luxury feel does not fly away as quick as the forecourt price.
Least reliable car I ever owned
At 53,000 miles my engine failed $12,000 replacement. Jaguar offered no help, said my case was rare, but 6 mechanics said engine failures were common because of timing chain failures in engines from 1998-2002. 3 water pump failures (plastic parts). Transmission failed at 98,000. This car had 8 mechanical break downs. Maintence was $27,000. Plastic used where metal was needed.
great but know the faults
This is one of the sexiest cars on the road. I have seen other cars trying to race me, and I do not want to race , I just want to cruise and enjoy the ride. Beware when you drive this model, it is a head turner and some people get angry. At the same time some people approach me and say, wow that is a great auto, it happens. I have two 1998 Jags one black and one white, the white one is the "L" version. Do not ask me why but the stereo sound is better in the "L" version, most likely due to the added interior.