Used 2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Consumer Reviews
Used XJ-Series for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
A bargain if you do the preventive maintenance
John Mulvihill, 03/13/2015
updated 03/14/2017
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJR 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
57 of 58 people found this review helpful
This car is a bargain in the used marketplace, with excellent performance and reliability. But there are weak areas. Make sure the plastic timing gear has been replaced with factory metal components. And, that the plastic water pump has been replaced with the factory metal unit. Do not buy an XJ that's been through an overheat. Look for sludge on the valve covers. The ZF automatic is "sealed for life" and prone to failure over 80K miles unless thoroughly cleaned out. Buy one of these cars only if you know of a non-dealer Jaguar speciality shop that can service it. (Check with your local Jaguar club.) Update: March, 2017 : I'm not sure when I first posted my original review, but it's been at least a couple of years. Over that interval I've put on a lot of miles, including an extended road trip to Canada. Now at 148K miles and nine years of ownership I have many compliments and only a couple of complaints. On the complaining side I wish the car had better fuel economy. I rarely drive in Sport mode, and I'm not a stop-light drag racer, but my XJR does no better than 16 mpg in around-town driving and 20 or 21 mpg on the highway at 75 mph. One weakness I watch out for: the ZF five-speed automatic. It uses synthetic transmission fluid and supposedly is "sealed for life." In other words, you'll never have to change the transmission fluid. That's all well and good it the owner thinks the car's lifespan is over at 80K miles. But this is a 250K mile car. As metal dust circulates through the transmission over the years, it accumulates and clogs the filters and magnets and lodges in nooks and crannies. My expert mechanic went through my transmission at 100K miles and flushed everything, including the torque converter, which is a tricky operation. The result is all I could have hoped for. The fluid is still clean 48K miles after. Today's generation of luxury cars come equipped with V6s for the most part, some with inline fours, all turbocharged. To achieve my car's 400 hp (I've tweaked the Eaton supercharger), they need to boost these small engines mercilessly, and that can't be a good thing. Manufacturers are reducing engine displacement to meet government standards for emissions and fuel economy. and the new generation of luxury cars give 2 or 3 mpg more. I'll gladly keep my 32-valve DOHC V8 with supercharger. Unlike today's turbocharged cars, there's no lag on acceleration and the blower emits an intoxicating whine. This is what a Spitfire must sound like. The car makes power as new and I get a thousand miles out of a quart of Mobil 1. Since I wrote the first review my privately owned (non-dealer) Jag specialist shop has needed only to change the oil and a couple of filters and replace spark plugs. The shop's owner and chief wrench, Juan, tells me this generation XJ-series (1998 - 2003) is setting a new standard for reliability as the cars age. There is a proviso: XJs built before 2002 need their plastic timing gear and water pump replaced with factory metal parts. This is expensive, a couple thousand dollars. But one the metal components are installed, there will never be a need to fix this problem again. In summary, my affection for this car has grown, and I'm obliged to give it five stars over its previous four. Even though it's 16 model years old, the car is holding up superbly. It's still tight, the original Bilstein shocks are still doing their job, and I am no longer worried about unexpected breakdowns. I'm 67 now, and don't see the need for another car: this one will outlive me. Also holding up well are the Connolly leather (with maintenance, and always parking the car indoors, as did the original owner) and the factory-optional Emerald mica paint. Apart from stone chips, the paint looks as new, with the same intense emerald green. As with the interior, the paint's longevity is dependent on the car being parked out of the weather. I've driven the new XJ and am a big fan of Jaguar's new lineup. Finally the Germans have a serious competitor in the sports sedan arena. But without a doubt, my old XJR rides better than the new one. My car is better insulated from the road, and you hardly feel the imperfections you drive over them. By comparison, the new XJ with its 20" wheels (as opposed to my car's 18") and rubber-band tires just can't absorb the bumps as capably. There's no doubt it handles better on a twisty road. My XJR doesn't like tight twisties, but put it on a road with long sweepers and it's in its element. You can buy a car like mine privately on Craigs List for around $4,000. (I paid $12,500 for mine nine years ago, when it had 85K miles on the clock.) The trick to buying one of these is to purchase it privately from an enthusiast owner who has maintained it rigorously. Don't buy one from someone who has not kept the service records. And don't buy one if you don't have access to a Jag service shop that is not part of a dealership. Do buy one if you have driven one and love it.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Bad cat, worst pick of the litter
mad lawyer, 10/14/2010
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
20 of 20 people found this review helpful
I've owned many luxury cars, all American, hence I never had a jag before. Bought this one used because it was just so pretty sitting on the lot. From day one, I've had nothing but extremely expensive repair bills from the most wide variety of areas, including, windows, sun roof, shocks, transmission, wheel bearings and finally the engine. In just over 3 years I spent over $10k on repairs, including $3500 for trans., and now they want $7k for a new engine, as I was stranded out on a quiet freeway in a corn field when the engine died last month. I would never recommend this vehicle.
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series for sale near you
Showing 3 of 6 listings
- Vanden Plas SedanMSRP: $9,495727 mi away
- XJ8 SedanMSRP: $4,082913 mi away
- Vanden Plas SedanMSRP: $12,9951,056 mi away
See all 6 listings
finally got one!
New Jag Guy, 04/01/2003
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
The thing looks like it's doing a hundred just sitting at the curb, and it definitely stands out in a sea of bubble cars. Soaks up the bumps better than even old Detroit sedans did, and yet is really a fine road car in the twists and turns. The reviewers like to say the XJ doesn't communicate with you like the German sedans. They're wrong. Seating position is great...you sit low, just like in an old sports car to really get that sensation of speed. Though regular XJ8's are cramped, the VDP is not. Definitely the way to go. Don't get this car if you want to go around town anonymously!
I Love It!
kewt, 10/30/2008
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I bought this car used with 30,000 miles on it. It has been wonderful. We haven't had a moment's trouble with it. We took a six-week cross-country trip in it and it couldn't have been more comfortable. We average about 27 MPG on the highway and anywhere from 12 to 16 in town. It's also a real head-turner. Lots of fun! I would recommend this car in a heartbeat.
XJ8
HJF 2, 09/17/2003
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I leased my car, knowing I would purchase after 2 years. The car looks great and rides perfect. It uses a great deal of oil. (1 qt every 800 miles) The dealer says it is normal.The mechanis say the xj8 engine has serious problems with the breather system. Engines are being replaced in the XK S (an option) as well as XJ8.I decided not to keep it, my independant mechanic said don't buy it, it will get worse. I am very disappointed with Jaguar, I still like the car, not the engine.
My XJR
jecorbin, 10/28/2002
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJR 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
The problem XJ series is no more. Since Ford's purchase the quality improvement is amazing. My XJR runs flawlessly and is an awesome four door sports car.
Best deal!
Jagfan, 01/25/2009
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought a used low mileage Jag - now owned it for a year and 15K. NO problems at all. Drives and handles beautifully, and draws looks and comments. I am shocked to find that with snow tires the handling is excellent on snow and ice. (a previous Jag I had was not a good winter handler) LOVE IT! It's a beautifully sculpted car that stands out from the crowd of jellybeans.
Jag Addiction
lyleseven, 03/19/2004
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
this has been a fabulous car. Absolutely no problems other than a front end alignment which the dealer covered under warranty and replaced front tires at no charge. The Pirelli P6000s wear out within 20k miles but they handle and ride beautifully. if you can afford this car why complain about a $125 tire? Gas mileage has been consistently 16+ around town. Everything works. Compared to my 87 XJ this is heaven....
01 XJ8L - A good buy for me
drobin9353, 08/10/2007
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Has met every expectation. No customary brake problems (luck?). Smooth transmission. No oil leaks even at 72,000 miles. Occasional little nuisances crop up: auto tilt mirror failed to auto tilt, fixed by removing and reinserting all fuses in back seat kick panels (none were blown). Outstanding handling in snow w/4 very aggressive snow tires (forget all-seasons). Uses a little more oil than a car of this price range ever should (1 qt about 1,000 miles). Lack of a local dealer will influence me to trade below 100,000 miles.
Last of the very best 2001 XJR!!!
Cat-walk, 05/19/2009
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
I absolutely LOVE my car. It has style, elegance, and a rocket for an engine! For the money, you can't can't get a better car. With under 50K on her, she's pretty much a garage queen. However, she does comes out to play and beat-up on those (vettes, mustangs, merc, etc.) who don't know about her racing spirit often enough to keep in good running condition. Diff went out at around 48k, and cracked motor mounts, fuel pumps, and valve cover gaskets have been replaced under after market warranty. DON'T BUY THIS CAR, without warranty coverage or if you don't have deep pockets, as repairs can be expensive. Other than that, it's still one of the BEST XJ's EVER BUILT!!
The Last "Real" Jaguar Sedan
John Mulvihill, 07/02/2007
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
Ford owned Jaguar when this car was on the drawing boards, but left the Brits alone to create the last "Lyons-era" big Jaguar saloon, 100% British in components, design, and construction. The result is the finest XJ ever. It's low-slung (5" lower than today's luxury cars) and gorgeous. In the best Jaguar tradition, this big sedan is silky, quiet, and fast. Only a handful of supercharged VDPs are produced by Jaguar every year, and all are pre-sold. Supercharged VDPs are the ultimate Jaguars, and this generation of XJs is the finest of the breed. Tightening safety and fuel economy standards mean we'll never see cars like this again.
The Best Car I've Ever Owned
Judy, 04/27/2017
updated 10/30/2017
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
All the Jaguar dealers I've dealt with over the years have been great. The car has been a joy to own. Dependable, comfortable, and beautiful. It's rarely required any more care than normal maintenance.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
A Real Beautiful Ride Best Car I Ever Owned....
Frank De Marco, 08/15/2019
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have owned my 01 VDP now for about 5 years, this car is a pleasure to drive and the ride is still smooth and easy so very comfortable and there's plenty of room in the back seat, the snack tables come in real handy and the maintenance just regular oil change no major problems
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Best for the price
Patrick, 06/25/2018
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
I paid $4000 for my 2001 XJ8 in August of last year. It had 80000 miles on it and was in mint condition. Now it has 93000 miles on it. Total investment in repairs: 2 oil changes. (Though it does need new brakes and rotors.) Bottom line: fine European luxury for pennies. This vehicle has truly been the best bargain of my life.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
XJ8
HJF, 09/17/2003
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I leased the car. I knew I was going to buy it at the end of the lease. It looks great, rides wonderful.It uses a qt of oil every 800 miles. Jaguar says that is normal.The mechanics say the XJ8 engine has a bad breather system and the part load breather needs to be cleaned all the time. I don't reaaly know what they are saying.I know the engine is also in the S an option, and XK. They are replacing engines but you really need to complain. I didn't buy.
I LIKE the car
Dean Waddle, 10/22/2005
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I LIKE the car a lot. Great stereo, great comfort, great accelleration when you want to pass, and you can pass anyone doing less than 150 mph. What's not to like.
Thrilled
Exton, 06/11/2004
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Purchased used with 21,000 miles. Meeting all my expectations. Mainly highway driven. Quiet, comfortable, smooth and fast.
0-60 in 5.4
Peter, 01/18/2007
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought in Canada and stuck with a speedo calibrated in klicks. Replaced front shocks two years ago. Replacing rear shocks this month. Transient engine shutdown dealer cannot diagnose... goes into failsafe mode. An outstanding car that lives up to all of its hype and more. Would not drive anything else. Performance for a 5,000 lb car is incredible. Pirelli P6 are ok for summer. Must use Blizzak for winter... makes it go like a tank in the snow.
2001 XJ8
jk8, 10/05/2004
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST CAR I HAVE EVER PURCHASED! I HAVE 2 CLASSIC JAGUARS & LOVE THE FACT THAT THIS CAR WILL NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE. I HAVE WORKED HARD FOR MY MONEY & AFTER SHOPPING OTHE LUXURY CARS, THIS CAR WON HANDS DOWN!
My 1st Jag
tex2007, 03/29/2005
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
..always owned BMW or Mercedes. Never owned black vehicle or Jag..till now. My NEXT vehicle will be a black Jag too. L-O-V-E this car! It's nimble, aggressive when necessary and a real head turner. Next Jag will have the Navigation system too. This one is a CPO car which adds to my driving pleasure and peace of mind.
Not a Primary Car
XJ8L Owner, 06/24/2004
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
The XJ8L is sublimely comfortable for front seat passengers - and moreso for those in the back. But don't buy this car if you're going to use it every day to commute in. The fact that it is an "L" model makes it incredibly difficult to park. Guzzles gas like crazy. Guzzles oil like crazy. TERRIBLE BRAKES! They started squealing after about 2000 miles. Expensive luxury cars like this should not have brakes that scream like banshees. Had brake pads ground still didn't fix it. Had brakes replaced for $800 and it isn't as loud but it is still a noticeable squeal. Wood panels on doors feel loose. Generally bad ergonomics.
2001 XJR
2001 XJR, 04/17/2007
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJR 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
Excellent car!! Fun to drive, great power and handling! Sexy, stylish and elegant! British Racing Green at its best!!
Black Cat
Peter, 05/20/2005
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought used. Car has performed flawlessly ever since. Silky ride, very roomy back seat in the stretch sedan. The smoothest ride in the world. Gets around 27 MPG at 70 MPH, typically 19 MPG in city.
2001 Jag XJR
Panzzax, 11/11/2005
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJR 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Some electrical probs also with engine mgmt system.
Power to spare
JP, 11/02/2007
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJR 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for a car that personifies elegance and style with the power and performance of a sports car, then the 2001 XJR is your ride. With almost 400 horses on my supercharged Jag, it's so much fun watching upstart Mustangs and Maximas recede in my rear view.
XJ8-L
Richard , 04/21/2008
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car is a great addition to my fleet. I bought it for a cruiser/weekend car, but I can't seem to keep myself out of it. I love the sound system and the power everything is outstanding. It is a well built vehicle and doesn't leak at all. The design of the interior is spacious and very welcoming. It is definitely a head turner. The car is heavy on a steel frame so tires and brakes do not last as long as they should. The brakes are a dual soft system and the rotors ware quickly. They provide superb stopping power but will need to be replaced soon and and often.
lemon
Hipexec, 02/14/2003
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 L 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is an overrated, overpriced lemon! My Chrysler Concorde LXi has more features, better climate control, more power, bigger trunk. They sold me the car with Pirelli tires that wore out at 20,000 miles! Little things like it has no compass built-in. It doen't go in the snow, and the heat of Phoenix causes it to overheat. Where does it go well? I don't know.
VDP s/c is excellent!
fastjag, 09/17/2003
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series Vanden Plas 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl S/C 5A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Back seat is enormous....car feels faster than my XJR...
sliding
qbnrico, 01/07/2004
2001 Jaguar XJ-Series XJ8 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
the car is a dream unless there is some snow on the ground. when i say some snow i'm being kind,its actually any snow. aside from the traction, you could not have a HOTTER car. you feel like james bond when your in it.