Edited on 2005-11-26 0:01:38

I'm looking into buying an '86 XJS 12-cylinder. Before I buy it, I was hoping to get an idea of what kind of problems to expect. The car has 100,600 miles on it. I did hear about how seals wear out if the car is not driven often, but I was wondering if there were any other things I should watch out for.

Submitted by dougdwyer@adel… on Mon, 11/28/2005 - 16:38

I agree the "The Book" is a tremendous resource. I caution readers to avoid being too discouraged from reading it, though, because it tends to paint an overly gloomy picture, in my opinion. Shop around for a well kept example and by all means have a Jag mechanic look it over.

The "XJS Guide" link below give a brief overview

The main thing to be wary of in buying a V12 is the cooling system as these engines will tolerate darn near anything except overheating. If there is any doubt here, avoid the car.

Plan on new fuel hoses, a distributor overhaul, and a major tune up, at minimum....unless the seller is a true Jag-guy who would never let these things go undone.

Make sure the climate control system is 100% functional. Repairs here are labor intensive.

Rear brake calipers and discs are also a big project----proof of recent replacments would be a "plus"

Look for signs of water leaks behind the dashboard

Any 20 year old Jag is risky unless you your totally assured that all services and repairs have been kept up-to-date.....most haven't, not by a long shot. With good research, and patience in shopping, there are some gems out there, though.

Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1987 XJ6 Ser III
1988 XJS V12 Coupe

Submitted by NE52-32043 on Mon, 11/28/2005 - 15:49

There are a bunch of things you need to look out for. Go to www.jag-lovers.org and download the free copy of Kirby Palm's book on the XJS, referred to lovingly as "The Book". It has a very extensive section on buying an XJS and what to look out for. I would strongly suggest printing that out and using it along with the Jaguar official service manual and part manual. Together, they should answer virtually any question you have.

Steve