I know this is a crazy question here. I recently purchased an end of year 2004 from a local dealer. I got a great deal since it was end of year, and the fact that I went through the internet, etc. It is a platinum X-Type 3.0 with Charcoal interior. I was really counting on an ebony/black exterior, but I took what they had on the lot due to the $$$.

My question is, how crazy is it to get it painted black? Do these piant jobs last or is there risk involved? Is the local Jaguar dealer the place to get such a thing done if I chose to do so? What are the overall pros and cons here? Also, would an estimate of $3000 for the paint job be in the ballpark? I am just guessing.

Thanks for any advice...

Chris

Submitted by pascal@jcna.com on Thu, 12/30/2004 - 10:11

black is very hard to keep clean, our XJR is black and looks filthy after a few days. My XKR is silver and looks fine after 2 weeks... except the front wheels that are black by then from brake dust...

a quality shop can match the quality of Jaguar's paint, especially a jaguar dealer. problem will be that you would end up wit a 2 tone car because of all the parts they coudln't paint without major work... inside doors, engine bay, etc... upon reselling, any buyer will assum teh car war wrecked and repainted...

not a good idea....

Pascal Gademer
South Florida Jaguar Club
72 E-type 2+2
00 XKR Coupe
99 XJR

Submitted by NE52-32043 on Thu, 12/30/2004 - 09:42

I agree with Daniel. Don't do it! There are a lot of spots on a car that are painted body color other than the exterior. Short of stripping the car down, having it properly repainted, and rebuilding it, it simply won't ever look right. Plus, the factory finish on these cars is far superior to what you'll end up with from a body shop, simply because they are applying it in the factory under optimal circumstances. Something else to consider -- the car probably has a long warranty on rust perforation. If you do a full repaint, you may void the warranty.

Bottom line, enjoy the car. I think that combination you got is beautiful. Besides, black is a hard color to live with. It shows every spec of dirt and all the tiny little scratch marks show up. Platinum will always look good.

Steve Weinstein, JTC-NJ
'70 XKE FHC
'69 XKE OTS

Submitted by capa2000@earth… on Wed, 12/29/2004 - 23:38

Dan,

Thanks for the good advice. I will be living with the Platinum...you are right..it is a nice combo with the charcoal interior. Next go around I'll hold out for the black...I hear it shows all the dirt anyway!

; )

Chris

Submitted by arsenaultd@ear… on Wed, 12/29/2004 - 21:00

Well since you asked, it sure sounds crazy to me to paint a brand new car cause you dont like the color. The paint job you get will not be as good as whats come from the factory, nor last as long with proper care unless its a top notch job and thats going to cost more than $3000.

Platinum/Charcoal is an attractive combination, its not like its bright red or anything. Can you live with the colors and maybe down the road sell it and buy another one in the colors you want?

Or, how many miles have you driven the car? Maybe you can see what the local dealer can do for you with regards to a swap. They get in new stock all the time, maybe you can grease their palms $500 , or offer to trade for a car with more miles, all of which might get you what you want and cost you a lot less.

But if black is what you want, its your car, you can do whatever you want to it! Its just not something I would do.

Daniel Arsenault
Lakewood, CA
1994 XJ12 Morocco Red
1995 XJS 4.0 Rose Bronze