1999 Jaguar XJ8 review from North America

Drivers Side Window Motor

Faulty Sunroof Switch

Headliner Issue.

The vehicle is as stable and smooth as my former 560SEL. The acceleration is powerful and the car just feels solid. It is more comfortable than my Mercedes, the seating firm and not so much like a living room sofa.

The issues that I've had are unbelievably minor. I've own a variety of luxury imports from the Ferrari 308 and 348, a classic 911, 3 S Class Mercedes and 2 Audi's. They all have the same thing in common... steady service. You pay to have your baby pampered. Don't pay and she'll start to stink and fall apart on you.

A Jaguar is no different. Pay attention to the service bulletins and recalls. Make the dealer accept the recall repairs. Service the car according to specs at the DEALER not "Joe The Budget Jag Man" and stay away from Jiffy Lube and you should be just fine. If you get stuck with a car that hasn't been serviced properly, dump it. Sell it before it buys you.

Be smart! Don't fall in love with the idea of owning the car. Fall in love with the fact that it is a good car. Pull a Car-Fax, investigate the ownership AND the servicing of the vehicle. If it isn't documented, assume it has not been done.

Remember, these are 60k to 80k cars brand new. They are not junk when they roll off the lot. With rare exception, The majority of problems revolve around procrastination and an owner who really doesn't care if it falls apart. After all we usually "refresh" after 20k to 30k anyway.

My XJ8 was purchased as a secondary vehicle. We have put a good 5k miles on her and the majority have been highway miles. No major issues, just a couple of little relays and glue...

Good luck!