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Lynn Kirkpatrick

Lynn Kirkpatrick

Jedi Hopeful
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So I have been lusting to buy an XJS. But many of the topics revolve around engine control systems. Are most of the problems (Oh, that's right, we don't have problems anymore, we have "issues")... So are most of the issues limited to the V-12? Is the 4.2L six a different animal?

The V-12 has a certain mistique, but I will want to be able to drive it? Are there other problem areas? What about the back seat space in the 2+2's? Can a small person exist there for an hour or so?
Thanks
Lynn Kirkpatrick
 
The six-cylinder was a more reliable car than the V-12s. Most of the problems associated with the 12s are due to lack of maintainance, but there were other "issues" too. The six is probably the way to go, but just drive a well-maintained V-12 and you'll be hooked! A small person can ride in the back of the coupes for a while, but it's not a long-distance machine for rear seat passengers that's for sure!
 
Lynn,

Are you actually talking about the 2+2 or do you mean the Coupe?
The 2+2 (post face lift convertible) has about enough room in the back "seat" to put two or three bags of groceries.Anything with legs will not fit for more than that run down to get those groceries.
The V-12 is dependable, if you do the maintenance. My '90 5.3L is a daily driver with almost 100,000 miles on it and still going strong. And I have been led to believe that the "Newer" 6.0L is more reliable. Just do your very best to get a well maintained car, Get a Qualified <u>JAGUAR</u> Mechanic to look it over for you. Tell him to do a Compression Check (nothing is more important on the V-12) If it doesn't pass the comp check...pass on the car, (It doesn't matter if they are giving it away)but, if a good JAGUAR Mechanic says it's OK. Don't worry too hard...these are 200,000 Mile cars (or more)
As Steve said buy a V-12 and never accept a lesser car. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Mike
 
V12's are an impressive ride but are definately "advance automoble ownership" YOu do nee to maintain them. I have a 92 V12 coupe and have been chasing a intermitten no start problem for nearly two years..but would I trade it for a 6 cylinder..no way. three of my friends also run v12's with no problem. Look at the cars history, find a good mechenic. join a club, particpte in jag forums, and every time you open the bonnet you and all arould will go AHHHHH!
good luck on your quest.
Mike
 
Before you buy an XJS, do your research. I didn't and have a very nice looking piece of yard art! Prices for parts are crazy, and if you don't pull your own wrenches, plan on putting some mechanics kids through college. The XJS I bought is actually a rare cat....1976 (pre-HE engine) with a 4-speed manual transmission. The pre-HE V-12's (and to a lesser degree, the HE engines as well) have a fatal failure mode. If (when) they overheat, the valve seats can fall out of the head resulting in destroyed pistons, heads, and cylender liners. This is why you'll see XJS's with Chevy V-8 engines installed in them. All of this aside, they are really nice cars. Just go in with your eyes open.
 
I agree with most of the advice that you have received on the 12 vrs. 6 cylinder engine. The 12 is an awsome engine with incredible performance and smoothness. The 6 is a great performing and much more problem free performance. The 12 must be maintained to high standards. I have both examples and love them both. The 12 can go over 200k easily if it is well mintained. I would not recommend a pre HE (1983) V12 because of parts scarcity, gasoline economy and general problem maintenance problems.
On the back seat problems: I love black humor so forgive my eccentricity. "The back seats of all Jaguar sports models were designed for children with no legs." Hopes this helps in your decision. Best regards.
 
Thanks everyone for the info. What type of maintenance is needed for the V-12? routine tuneup? fluids change? It seems many of the problems are engine control systems. Are these prevented or corrected with regular diagnostic checks?
Thanks
Lynn
 
Lynn,

I don't know... I have seen a lot of <font color="red">Suspected </font> engine control problems...not that many real problems. It usually turns out to be Spark Plugs, Spark Plug wires, Cap, Rotor, Injectors, Fuel regulators, fuel pumps, belts, hoses and other rubber parts. Many of these could have been found with a regular inspection program. The majority of them would have been eliminated during routine tune up and filter maintenance.
Check the hoses and belts every year or so. Check the coolant every 3 to six month (depends on how confortable you feel.) Drain and change the coolant every couple years (change out the thermostats while your at it.)
Generaly look for anything frayed, brittle of broken and replace/repair as needed.
You can do most of this while checking/ topping off or changing the oil. If you make a habit of checking out your engine compartment it won't be that big a deal and you will get very good at noticing things as they change.
Follow your dream... I did... and I get about 25-30 smiles to the mile! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/driving.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Mike
 
Check oil level regularly too. I used to check mine every two days, coolant too. Obviously a little paranoid, but the thing didn't break on me so that's okay. John is right about the V-12. Silky smooth and a huge surge of power when you need it. Lovely!
 
The E type 6 or 12 cylinder is very much ECU (computer free) and engine control problems are relegated to old fashioned diagnostics with out scanners, ETC,. As you get into XJS 12 cylinders, ECUs come into play with with fuel injection and solid state ignition systems. Since OBD2 occured from 1995 on in Jaguars, scanners and computer diagnostics are not relevant until those models. Hope this helps with your decisions.
 
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