1999 Jaguar XJ Series

Long-term reliable, IF . . .

By Johntechwriter (CA) on Wednesday, April 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 124,000

Pros: "Exterior design, interior, ride, power, all tops"

Cons: "Plastic cam tensioners & water pump - replace!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"If you swap out the plastic timing chain tensioners and water pump with metal factory replacements, this car's biggest problem areas will disappear. My 2001 XJR has 124k miles on the clock and remains reliable. It's superior-quality paint and leather are holding up well, keeping the car fresh. It remains structurally tight and drives nearly as new. The engine requires only 1 quart of oil (synthetic) between 10k mile changes. My only concern is the transmission, a 5-speed ZF unit known to fail beyond 80k miles. My shop, Continental Imports in Oakland CA, is trying to preserve it by changing the fluid and filters every 15,000 miles. But even if I need to fork over $5k for a rebuilt transmission, the car is such a bargain, I'll still be dollars ahead."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

Very fast...a head turner

By Doc (NC) on Wednesday, April 10, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 128,000

Pros: "Fun to drive"

Cons: "Expensive oil changes."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"The Vanden Plas is the limo version of the Jaguar. It has the grace of a luxury sedan with the power of a Hemi. I recently drove a brand new Lexus. When I handed the keys to the gloating owner he asked how I liked his car. Truthfully, I explained to him my older Jag drove better than his new Lexus. It is, after all, a Jaguar. I love my kitty."

3 people out of 4 found this review helpful

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse

Very good car, like new 29000 miles wife's car.

By Bill (FL) on Monday, April 08, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 29,114

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Purchased new, Garaged from day one, not a mark on it inside or out. Moving north and do not need two cars."

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no | report abuse