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Used 1998 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
19 reviews

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4.38 out of 5 stars

A Good Car for the Money

Brett , 08/08/2006
Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
21 of 21 people found this review helpful

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.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Don't even think about it!!

Don't even go there!, 04/30/2004
Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

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!

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Least reliable car I ever owned

worst car ever, 08/04/2006
Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
12 of 14 people found this review helpful

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.

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4 out of 5 stars

A lot of car for a little cash.

sleep2much, 01/28/2008
Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
11 of 13 people found this review helpful

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.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Not too bad

Dirk5, 07/31/2006
Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I bought my XJ8 in May of 2002 (44,000 miles) for $25,000 ($34,000 was average resale at that time) delivered to me from Houston wholesaler. Really no trouble at all until 110,000 miles. Brake calipers rebuilt, front end balljoints replaced, new belts and hoses (normal after 100,000 miles), new water pump, thermostat replaced. About $4,000 in repairs, however some of this is expected after 100,000 miles. The fit, finish, exterior and interior, electronics, handling, and overall reliability has been good. Super classy car that I will keep for very long time. Will put another 40,000 miles on this car and then put into the garage and buy another everyday car. This car is 8 years old and still runs and looks great.

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