The real cost of owning an older Jag! '04 Jaguar XJR in the CAR WIZARD's shop need some addressing

[@petequinones3454]

These were the last generation that actually looked like a Jaguar. And that hood ornament was so iconic of the brand.

[@stevemcraemanager7119]

Got rid of the hood ornaments because the European regulations. Apparently pedestrians don't like being impaled.

[@petequinones3454]

@@stevemcraemanager7119 they didn't seem to care for the prior 100 years before. There's a list of things from bumper heights to center of headlights, door heights and on and on of regulations that keep car design from being unique. That's why cars all look the same today. It's not like you won't get impaled by a hood ornament, there's still a lot of cars with pop-up headlights and hood ornaments still on road. They're not so dangerous that we don't allow them.

[@stuartpenney6829]

@@petequinones3454 I believe Jaguar will sell you a leaper to fit yourself aftermarket with all kinds of disclaimers. That way when you impale a pedestrian the lawsuit is down to you and not Jaguar themselves.

[@instructionaldesigner7310]

I have never seen a jag in a salvage yard with a hood ornament - they disappear minutes after the cars are set out, no other car has this distinction. it is surprising about impaling - you would think pedestrians would be honored to be impaled by a leaping jag as opposed to the geometric ornaments from Mercedes, Lincoln, Buick, etc

[@42luke93]

@@stevemcraemanager7119 So dumb of them, hood ornaments are meant to bend and pop back up to prevent that from happening.

[@mattman237]

One of the best looking sedans of all time. Just ageless IMO.

[@gdubya83]

especially the Vanden Plas

[@gstevens6948]

Absolutely, totally agree. Gorgeous vehicle.

[@freedomisnotnegotiable]

@@gstevens6948 yes especially if you got one for $2800 and enjoyed it now for over 25k miles with awesome gas mileage btw. Highway I get up to 28mpg, (not the supercharged)

[@seanm2511]

Wow. I'll have what you're having. :)

[@studiodevelopers2467]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable I like the xjs

[@Panamera2014]

I've has my 01 XJR for nearly 20 years. Still drives great and gets compliments all the time. Not a Honda, but has proven very reliable. I consider it to be the best car I've ever owned. Generally easy to work on with decent parts availability. If you are a good home mechanic, you can do 90% of stuff on your own. Prices have really gone up on these in last few years.

[@joevarga5982]

The only problem is, it's an automatic.

[@shauntaviousmontgomery8185]

I need some advice from an experienced jaguar owner like yourself . I have pcv valve problem. Are you available for a phone call?

[@GrandMoffJoseph]

Still one of my absolute dream cars, ever since I first saw one at the Houston Auto Show as a teenager. (and tbh, since I'm hitting my 40s now, I'd rather this be my midlife crisis car than a Ferrari I can't fit in comfortably) ;)

[@DidoStefanov]

Me too 👍

[@canto_v12]

Do it!!!

[@henrikbragge]

I’ve got one and can just advice you to buy one, but first check that expensive stuff like the air suspension works properly! Then you’ve got a car that runs like a clock.

[@GrandMoffJoseph]

@@henrikbragge Yep! That's why I'm looking for 2003+ models, since they at least have the revised timing chain guides on them from the factory. Based on my research so far, seems like the big items to look at are headliners and air suspension. Any other big things I should watch for on the 03+ models? Actually, a question for you: What about mileage? I'm seeing a number of XJRs for sale that look to be in good order and with a maintenance history, but ofc most of them are at or well over 100k miles. How concerned should one get about that? (meaning: is there a point with this platform where it either just blows up or needs a complete engine out rebuild or something?)

[@ladyhock1954]

You can have one! Shop around a bit. Some are reasonably priced. I bought a "92 XJS Coupe around 2003. Have a 2003 XJ8 sedan absolutely ❤ both.

[@excoauto]

We do only Jaguar, My tip is to remove the front window when replacing the headliner. You get it out, but when installing the rebuild headliner it needs to be slightly curved to fit and then the new fabric will stretch, this results in a short lifespan. Also check the coolant hoses under the supercharger.

[@ichbineinebiene6234]

NL

[@ckm-mkc]

+1 on the coolant hoses, those are a bear.

[@garyjones2335]

a range rover at head liner express in florida cost me 600 dollars with life time warranty on materials and fitting and was 3 hr job ..... 2500 wizard must be millianaire

[@cbruno12180]

@@garyjones2335 your an idiot if u watch his episodes he sends those out to be done so he charges labor to remove and install prob 8 hours labor and the cost to have it refinished

[@tomjones5079]

Those were a bitch. Sold the car right after our of frustration

[@EdgyNumber1]

Hey _Car Wizard,_ I used to work with these cars during pre-production at Browns Lane (when it was open) back in 2001 and I can tell you what that 'attachment' in the roof is: On the roof, A-pillar, the LCD in-car audio screen, the upper lamp deck and the B-pillar these are sensors for the smart airbag for the passenger. I was working for the Swedish company that developed it, Autoliv, and had to help with their anthropometric data recording to allow the system to determine how the front passenger was seated in various scenarios. The reason this system exists was because there had been so many reports in the car industry about passenger airbags deploying upon people that did not fit the antropometrical average. This was particularly important for the USA as there are still many that do not like to wear their seat belt and given the litigious culture over there, Jaguar deemed it was worth the cost to fit it as opposed to the law suits it might potentially face. It can tell where your body is in relation to the airbag module and reduce the deployment force accordingly. It cannot be fooled either. It was tested to find whether you had your knees against the fascia and even whether you were reading a newspaper or not. If it senses a condition where it could cause serious injury by deployment (i.e., face close to the airbag module) it would shut off the system (the airbag light on the passenger side of the dash would light up,) and remain deactivated until you moved away from it. Very sophisticated safety tech for the time. It was very enjoyable experience working there.

[@MickeyMishra]

Now you got to make a video about how it works. That is some real neat tech!

[@Jon_2218]

Very informative, great insider info.

[@barryrudge1576]

Common fault for decades with Jags is the fibre board the headlining is attached to. It degrades and the adhesive on th cloth can no longer grip. Here in the UK you can get a fibre glass replacement for the fibre board and comes with the cloth to replace that on the mouldings as well as the roof. The only other requirement is is a high temperature contact adhesive. I did my own on my XJS without a real problem but I must emphasise the High temperature adhesive otherwise you'll be back at square one. The toal cost to me ten years ago was Approx £350 for the whole kit.

[@neilsa9292]

It's also a common problem on the SAAB 900 classic ,I've done a couple myself.

[@lffit]

interesting info, my car is black and kept outdoors with the sun in the South of France hasn't helped, nor one day my vacuum job.

[@martinrowland2593]

Similar problem with range rovers the foam inner lining breaks down and turns to dust. similar shenanigans to repair lying on your back walking it out

[@instructionaldesigner7310]

Every 98-2001 XJ8 I have seen has a sagging headliner (usually backseat area), The cost here in the Eastern US is about half the value of the car ($800ish) and easiest install seems to be to remove either front or rear windshield

[@Hattonbank]

You are correct. It is the same headlining fabric manufactured by Guilford Textles called Morzine, and it is the consistency of the foam that degrades over the years.

[@ejsgarage]

I had 2004 XJR, it was an amazing car until the air suspensions leaked. The coolant reservoir broke and coolant was leaking all over the place but it was only $399 to fix, I bought the part and put it on myself. lol. I went back to 2002 Jaguar XJR and still driving it today, it doesn't have the $10,000 suspensions anymore like the 2004 to 2008 model. I won't give up my Jag, I have owned 4 of them.

[@vndsdiego9343]

Didn’t know much about cars when I was on the market for my first car long story short I got a jag xj 2003 sport now that I know a lot about jaguars I wish I would’ve looked for a xjr

[@vndsdiego9343]

But I still love my 290 hp v8

[@h7pubg]

I remember watching your video on that, love your channel, but I was curious what was the reason you didn’t opt to go for the air suspension delete conversion, it’s about $1000, and people i’ve seen say they still drove great after it

[@paulmarsh5673]

Every had a problem with the yellow like coming on evening driving fine . Mechanic switches off ( 4th guy) and stays off for a few weeks. Thank you Paul uk

[@vw5056]

@@h7pubg. Just buy new air springs for that $1k. Steel conversions are cringe.

[@ryanmccollum6754]

We had an '04 XJR, just like this one, but black with polished wheels. I LOVED that car. just short of 200k miles, we had issues with the rear diff, rear-wheel bearings, ride height sensors, MAP sensors, motor mount, front control arms, etc. Did replace the air struts with Arnotts. Started getting really expensive. I regret selling it but I had to get the wife a replacement. The interior and body were perfect. It was SO FUN to drive and blow the doors off the kids in their 5.0's, at any speed. I would buy another as a spare, weekend car. Thanks for pouring lemon juice on my paper cut.

[@paulmarsh5673]

Was yr yellow engine light coming on too Thxs Paul UK

[@heavychevy71stroker]

Ryan, are you looking for another XJ8? I have one with 45k original miles. If you are anyone like one let me know. I have to down grade to make room for other cars and I also hate to see it go.

[@bozodog428]

My local mechanic has been working on both my cars for the last 14 years. I don't even ask how much anymore. I just bring it in and he fixes it, and like Wizard, he let's me know if something needs attention. It's so nice to have someone that is both competent and trustworthy.

[@saulmc8920]

Garages need people like you 🤣🤣🤣

[@BriteFrog]

I really wish that Omega Automotive (Car Wizard) was closer to me. I live in East Texas, and Wizard is roughly 450 miles away. If he was, he and Omega would definitely get all my repair business. Shops and mechanics that are as trustworthy as he seems to be are a rarity.

[@lestrem11]

If you find a garage that you trust then you stick with them. Best wishes from the UK.

[@NancyM-vm3bl]

Are they good cars I'm about to buy one

[@michaelkilbride2927]

No there are full of electronic faults as they age ecu is 5000 euro to replace i know. I had to buy one Complex and expensive ​@NancyM-vm3bl

[@francis2811]

The most thrilling car to drive! Anyone who's ever owned one will never want to part with it!

[@freedomisnotnegotiable]

Got one for 2800$, drive it know for over a year about 25.000 miles. Beautiful car, drives awesome and reliable, had to deal with the Air suspension, but once you know how it works it’s actually very easy. All parts are pretty easy to get. Over 90% of the car is aluminum, no rust issues!

[@studiodevelopers2467]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable Wowwwwww

[@Alex.AL_26]

I had a 2006 model and sold it a few years ago because it was getting quite high in mileage and was not ready to spend thousands to keep it running, but it really was a great car.

[@adotintheshark4848]

Until they have to start fixing it every other week.

[@pintaco4299]

Recently picked up a near perfect 03. Absolutely love it

[@Epotheros]

I have the 4.2 Supercharged in my 09 XF SV8 and it's a great motor. It came with 420 hp and 413 (actually closer to 430) ftlbs from the factory. It has so much torque at any RPM that it just effortlessly glides up to speed. It is such a wonderful feeling.

[@h7pubg]

how many miles?

[@jayviz5304]

I have the same exact car same year 😍 best car I’ve owned

[@Mabeylater293]

Reliable?

[@Epotheros]

@@h7pubg It's got 89k on it. I bought it 2 years ago when it had 75k miles on the clock. So far no real reliability issues. Just a recent check engine light for a EVAP vacuum pump voltage issue that might just be caused by low battery voltage. It hasn't been driven much over the winter.

[@marsgal42]

A few years ago I saw a Jaguar Sovereign on my way to work. Dripping wood and leather, exuding class. License plate: CATNIP.

[@alexandrecouture2462]

That's a cool license plate! I have a 1991 Jaguar Sovereign (XJ40 generation) and it is a lovely car!

[@joshuamorley272]

X350 will become a classic for sure. Seriously underrated at the time and still are.

[@ckm-mkc]

I had a previous generation of these, which was even better looking IMHO (it was substantially less tall). I spent as much as the purchase price on maintenance, but drove it for 6 years. A fabulous car overall with incredible performance & personality. Worth every penny, sold it for what I paid for it.

[@joshuakhaos4451]

So most of Jags relaibility issues are generally blown out of Porportion I take it?

[@h7pubg]

@@joshuakhaos4451 without a doubt, have put 10k miles on a 23 year old xk8 in under a year, daily use multiple times a day many times, only needed an alternator so far which cost what it would cost on any other car

[@BRAINFxck10]

@@joshuakhaos4451the reliability issues are with older Jags from the 70’s to 90’s, in the late 90’s Ford invested money into their manufacturing and they’ve been pretty solid ever since

[@iant720]

Exactly this is a bit chunky. The x308 was perfect. Low and sleek!

[@talldude5841]

A really easy way to fix the headliner is to razor knife it straight across and spray glue on the ceiling and push the liner back. Believe it or not, I have seen jobs this way and you could not see where the cut was. Especially since it is in the rear. Takes about 15 minutes.

[@santiagorecasensros3244]

I am the proud owner of one of these Jaguars, and I can affirm based on experience that if well maintained, they are extremely reliable and not so expensive to run. I did rigorous homework before buying it, I made a very informed purchase, and getting one of these cars has been a very wise decision. Already 200.000 miles and still running like new.

[@vw5056]

Aluminum body too. Huge plus for salty areas.

[@h7pubg]

i have a 2008 xk 4.2, shares much of what the xj8 has, hoping for a trouble free ownership, it has 107k on it. main issue recently has been the blower motor dying, replaced it and resistor and its still only spins for a second when I start, very much hoping it’s not a dash out job. otherwise very solid car

[@Colbybartley]

This generation XJR and the E38 7 series are truly the best looking sedans of all time.

[@gerardtrigo380]

I have seen cars where step 1 of headliner removal was remove remove rear window. Others were surprisingly easy. Jeep Wagoneer, and large station wagons from the sixties. Remove dome lights, remove clothes hooks, remove headliner trim, and drop headliner and remove from back of vehicle. Some had the additional step of folding down the rear seats.

[@Simple_Jack82]

What a nightmare!

[@larrymatheny9081]

I have an 88 Cherokee Wagoneer, and have replaced the headliner twice over its lifespan. Easy job if you just take your time. Just replaced the engine after 294,000 Miles. Who says Jeeps don't last!

[@computerwiz4]

The XJ of this generation does actually recommend removal of the rear glass to get the headliner board out, and some shops will only do it that way. I've had to do it on mine and the board can come out through the rear door, you just have to bend it a bit.

[@GenderSkins]

As someone that has done headliners back in the 1980's, even headliners on an old 1970's model vehicle was not easy. But compared to these new car's with all their air bags in different locations, doing a 1970's model vehicle is a cake walk to these new car's. But once you have the headliner out, "WITHOUT" breaking anything the hardest part about redoing a headliner is laying down the right amount of glue so that when you are laying the material down so that you do not get any wrinkles or having glue spots bleeding through because you put down to much glue. But redoing a headliner is almost always a two man job, regardless of the year model of the car. And that is because it is also easy to break the headliner base that you glue too, while trying to get it out or put it back in by yourself.

[@garyjones2335]

with a lifetime warranty on fitting and materials headliner epress in florida fit a range rover for 600 dollars its a 3 hr job .... 2500 wow wizard must be millianaire

[@davidgoliath5901]

Early last year our '03 X350 (same car) needed the headliner replaced. Cost $650 (Aust) done by an extremely well respected motor trimmer in Melbourne . No sunroof though which makes it a bit quicker. No window or seat removal needed. The X350 is such a timeless design and just so damn nice to be in.

[@anthonylewis5154]

Had mine done £400 plus the pillars car's like brand new inside now

[@scottleyva8656]

I had a 2001 Vanden Plas. Great, low maintenance car. My favorite car Iv'e owned. The transmission shifted harshly down to first gear at about 44,000 miles and luckily it was still under warranty, so Jaguar replaced it. I drove it 11 years and at 138,000 miles the timing tensioners broke because they are plastic I found out. The dealer wanted about $2,000 to replace them, but I decided to get a new car. I gave my Jaguar to the mechanic at the dealer and he fixed it for his father to drive. The car was beautiful and I kept it in near flawless condition.

[@vibingwithvinyl]

This is the last Jag that still looked like a Jag. I want one. Desperately. Not the XJR though, I'll settle for the XJ8.

[@freedomisnotnegotiable]

XJ8L, that’s what I have. Awesome car. 28mpg on highway

[@h7pubg]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable how many miles? I have a 2008 xk 4.2 w same engine and trans and i’m curious what kind of future maintenance i should expect with 104k miles now

[@8THIRTEEN]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable ME 2 2006XJ8L 👍

[@freedomisnotnegotiable]

@@h7pubg air suspension if not already!?… my rear differential seal failed, very easy to change (be careful, Jaguar manual says 4 hours, even in independent shops the will go with that) you can do it yourself in an hour, without lift. I also changed front upper control arms (fire thunderbird parts fit) and rear tie rods. I think front wheel bearings is the next and then maybe waterpump. Waterpump is very easy, there is a detailed KZbin video. The Jaguar forum is very helpful, I also put up an extensive post there how I diagnosed the air suspension. I got mine with about 100k miles and now I have 125k

[@h7pubg]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable thank you, fortunately the XK does not share the air suspension with the XJ, but a lot of other components mainly engine and trans. i’m in a similar boat, we got the XK a few months ago with a little over 100k

[@pclayton5063]

I just got my 08 Touareg back yesterday from having the headliner done. I had estimates from $400 to $800 and agreed to the $800 estimate because they looked like they knew what they were doing. I told them I was in no rush and they took three days and did a marvelous job. Nothing worse than having a pristine interior and a drooping headliner. Well worth the cost to fix. I do remember pulling headliners myself and taking them down to the upholstery shop and spending $75 to have them recovered with reinstallation by me. Guess those days are gone forever. :-(

[@PaulRussam]

There’s a very good reason they banned those type of bonnet/hood mounts in the UK. They would gut any pedestrian you had the misfortune to hit. You might just as well mount a meat hook to the car, not only would it be more effective at slicing someone open from top to tail, it would be cheaper to buy than the leaping cat.

[@papadiesel3459]

That is highly exaggerated, the leaper is spring mounted using a single 4mm bolt, meaning it will snap off immediatly upon impact.

[@tonyfranks9551]

How many incidents please? BS.

[@ImNotADeeJay]

"... a very powerful engine for JUST 4.2 liters..." you gotta love American engine displacement standards. In Europe, a 2.5l is already considered a big engine...

[@porsche928s4]

Yea american engines are massive I've got 4 jags and the only one that has a larger liter than my v6 f150 is a v12

[@mikelemoine4267]

What's crazy is how low the power was on older American V8's compared to today. We had a 1973 Buick with a 350ci (5.7l) V8 that produced 150 horsepower. The car makers' attempt to increase fuel economy during the 1970s fuel embargo was to detune everything. They still offered the same engine size options, but all were detuned. Muscle cars and such came with a 5.0l v8 that made 120hp, a 5.7 that made 150 and a 7.4l that made as little as 245 hp. They all had a fair amount of low end torque that gave them the ability to burn the tires off if the driver chose to, and they would give the perception of power due to the low RPM power band, but many of them would be outrun by an economy car or even a pickup truck now. These engine offerings were nothing more than an expensive marketing ploy, as the base engine could have simply been tuned three different ways (heads, cam, fuel induction, etc.) and make the same power without having to run three completely different engines.

[@charlesharper9546]

It's not big until it's at least a 6.0. I had an Olds VistaCruiser with a 455. That = 7.4 liters

[@mikelemoine4267]

@@charlesharper9546 Ah, the old Olds Rocket V8s! Those things had some power! I had a buddy who had a 74 Cadillac with a 500 cu (8.1l). It wasn't as gutsy as the Olds Rockets though, probably due to the 1970s attempt at fuel economy improvements.

[@thevdubber6918]

At 3:20 when you say it’s heavy, they aren’t too bad being all aluminium body.

[@iant720]

I have an 01 XJ8. Been very reliable and not that hard to fix myself. Parts are a little more expensive but nothing beats the compliments you get, the iconic style, the smooth ride and it’s a JAAAGGGGGG

[@FFE-js2zp]

When Harry Metcalfe of Harry’s Garage casually takes his Jag sedan to 201 mph, blasting from 170 to 201 in 12 seconds, on public roads, it’s one on the best moments on yt.

[@eddstarr2185]

What a joy to see a Jaguar KJR again. Luxury with a sporting character that's not too big, nor too small. A well cared for Jaguar always draws a crowd.

[@marekw.9816]

Agree, Jaguars need to look like Jaguars again.

[@cbaccus]

I have a 2009 XJ8 I bought last year with 43k miles. It had a sagging headline the seller had just fixed so hopefully I’ll be good for another 10+ years. I did replace the front control arms and strut mounts when i got it as I had a similar roughness on imperfect roads and some harshness in the ride. These cars are just phenomenal. There are some great examples out there if you’re patient. I looked for about a year until I found a really clean one.

[@Peter-MH]

Wow can’t believe how well these have aged! Looks fantastic! These must be going up in value fast.

[@KrustyKlown]

Was shockingly clean underneath!!! .. usually one would expect a TON of Rusted stuff under there.

[@samholdsworth420]

@@KrustyKlown what's rust? (Southwest flex 💪) lol

[@NZotyoka81]

Not really sadly because of the maintenance costs are still on the same level when it was new and it will hardly goes down. I had an 03 stype and i have never left the shop with an under $1000 service bill. Dispite the costs i really miss my Jaaaag.

[@detonator2112]

@@KrustyKlown You don't know what you're talking about. These are all aluminium.

[@sedanzzz_guy2488]

nope not really cars like this don't ever hold value I drive an o3 Mercedes s500 and my brother a jag xk8 and both were had for under the price of a new civic. My car is a 1 owner I'm the second just crossed 80k miles my brothers is a Nieman Marcus edition xk8 with just over 78k on it both clean title exceptional condition examples with a laundry list of service. But neither will ever be worth more then 20k even though more then that in service has been done in 10 years and the merc was 110k new the jag was 78k new (Nieman Marcus catalogue car not standard xk8). Its just the nature of it but if you love something it is worth it.

[@1chish]

That XJR front still has the echoes of possibly the most beautiful Jaguar sedan - the XJ6. The double lifts over the fog lamps and headlights is classically iconic.

[@ORBrunner]

Hard to believe that this car was a failure because of it design... people are either blind or stupid This car is gorgeous and has the style of its own. It has soul and DNA I would prefer to have this amazing car more than any of BMW or Audis or even Mercedes

[@joshuakhaos4451]

Right? These have aged like fie wine and just keep getting better. Its one of those designs that it only needed light refreshes if you were to keep it interesting. Just update the interior design a bit, Give it more modern looking wheels, better brakes, New tech inside and give it modern front and rear LED lights. Thats all these would need. The 911 is that way. Its changed sure, But its over all design has barely strayed from what its always been known for. Most of its real changes are all in its mechanics and horse power output.

[@jamesfrench7299]

It's a clever evolution of the 1960s original.

[@NkwasiasemAkwakwa]

Well said 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@jeffchandler6045]

Sitting watching this video in my 06 XJR - have had for 4 years - 142k now - it’s been my favorite car I’ve ever had. I switched to coil suspension and had to do a fuel pump, but otherwise it’s been a very reliable car - and a blast to drive!

[@kevinbarry71]

I always love that generation of XJ, this is the all aluminum version. Much superior to what came before

[@MrChas2009]

I have a 2007 XJ 8 Vanden Plas with 67,000 miles. It's a magnificent vehicle. I need headliner work too. I just replaced all 4 rear upper and lower control arms, the tie rods and the stabilizer links. Previously I replaced the front air springs, the front tie rod ends, the front forward lower control arms and the front upper control arms. I replaced the engine mounts, the transmission mount and the steering rack bushings last week. It goes exactly where I point it! With few exceptions, I use genuine Jaguar parts. Many aftermarket parts are cheap Chinese imitations made with inferior materials. As you have accurately said, Wizard, these cars are wonderful but maintenence is costly. I also have a 2001 XKR convertible that I have restored to a high level. Without the ability to do the work myself, it would not be practical to own and maintain these great cars. Thanks for producing your excellent videos Wizard! Charlie in Phoenix

[@arandomhobbychannel6718]

More people could learn from your influence, you seem to be very honest to people, and you actually explain why things cost what they do.

[@robinosborne266]

My wife and I had 3 brand new Jaguar XJ Sovereigns and loved them. Stopped buying Jaaags when they produced the abomination that is the current XJ series. As someone said they are of aluminium construction so rust is not the problem it once was with Jaguars of old. Ironically the only problem we had with our cars was with the last one we owned and it was with the German ZF transmission. Horrendous lurching when changing down as you came to a stop in traffic. The car ended up having 3 transmissions in it’s first 3000 miles!!! We had techs from ZF come and try the car. Eventually they managed to cure the problem with the last replacement. Apparently that transmission was used in top of the line BMWs and Bentleys and they were known to have similar issues. After our last Jaguar we went to Mercedes-Benz and have now had 5 of them - all of them have been totally trouble-free and fantastic cars but the older Jaguars still hold a very special place in our hearts.

[@maxcactus7]

Definitely one of the most beautiful sedans ever made! Timeless in appearance. The final scene in Casino Royale in which Mr. White drives up to his mansion in an XJ8 convinced me I want to own one of these Jags from this era. I would just prefer to LS swap the engine for reliability & ease of service.

[@ckm-mkc]

If you maintain them, the reliability is not bad, certainly easier to deal with than a mix & match with an LS. Problem is most people drive them without maintenance, that's just asking for it.

[@freedomisnotnegotiable]

The 4.2 engine is from Ford, it’s a very reliable engine. (The ones from 2004 on I think) before there were some timing chain issues. Very good transmission too. If you buy suspension parts most of the time Ford thunderbird/Lincoln LS works… mine has 125k miles, engine is super smooth and no oil consumption. I change oil every 3k miles and it looks super clean.

[@maxcactus7]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable Outstanding news, Freedom! I know Ford owned part of Jag at the time. Makes me very happy reading your post. My DD is a 2004 Lincoln Town Car now so you've convinced my to buy the Jag, thanks!

[@h7pubg]

the 4.2 is not an unreliable engine, even the previous 4.0 with chain tensioners done is reliable. LS swaps have tons of wiring issues and people do not want to work on them since there’s no factory diagram, maybe replacing coolant housing, and on the XJ8s the air struts go out at a certain point but can be replaced with regular suspension for cheaper

[@jeffhall9357]

@@freedomisnotnegotiable It is not a Ford engine. It's the Jaguar AJ. (Made in Ford factory in UK)

[@Barbarapape]

A true gentlemans carriage, and as i live in the UK, Jag's have always been a brand to aspire to. I have owned two XJ's, they are superb cars, but as you have shown us with this one, they do have issues that can be expensive to repair correctly. The sagging headlining is very common, and no way is it a job to try doing at home. I avoid sunroofs, they can and do leak, and this ruins the headlining and pillar trims. This should be an excellent example when all the work has been done.

[@DailyDriver.]

Such a gorgeous car. I’ve Always loved the styling of this gen. They aged so well too.

[@flybobbie1449]

This style of car will be forever Jaguar. I loved my friends XJ sport. He got banned drink driving. I drove him to the rehab lessons. Beautiful car. I always wanted it, a magic carpet.

[@fredmahar5431]

Replaced the headliner in my '00 jeep Cherokee sport.....turned out beautiful, can't imagine how much $$$ it will cost to have someone replace that one.....love Jags ,and that one is beautiful...

[@robertallen6701]

I have the non-supercharged version of this car. Air struts and water pump failures are not uncommon. And the thermostat is another cooling system issue. The thermostat failed on mine, and I replaced that, the coolant hose that runs under the intake manifold, and the water pump all at one time, since I had the car apart enough to get to all that. It was a pain. My car's previous owner had replaced the air struts with coilovers. I have also had to replace the upper control arms and tie rod ends on the front. Tie rods were making a horrible groaning noise when I turned the wheel. Upper control arms were still tight, but the boots were shot. Parts were fairly affordable, so I replaced the upper control arms while I was in there. I've also had some minor issues with the rear brakes that were easily sorted with a new hardware kit. I bought the car 3 years ago with 73,000 miles on it. Now it has 134,000. I've got most of the common failure parts replaced, and it runs like a champ. The very first thing I did when I got it was to replace the factory 20" wheels with 18's, and aside from saving me money on tires, the ride is so much smoother. Despite putting 60,000 miles on it over the last three years, I'm still amazed at how smooth this car is, and how well it performs. I can only imagine what the XJR's extra hundred horsepower is like, because my NA 4.2 is a rocket. I think this is by far my favorite car I've ever owned. I hope to get at least five more years out of it. And the headliner? I think the headliners on Jags of this era were sagging before they ever left the factory. That's on my list of things to get fixed, but it's beyond the scope of a DIY repair, so I haven't done it yet. If it really does cost $2500, it may never get done.

[@jasonmears5251]

I had a 04 in Radiance red over ivory. The drivers seat of 04-08 XJ’s are a lovely place to be on a long trip. This generation looks old but were quite modern for their time. Deceptively lightweight due to the aluminum construction. Very solid feeling car at high speeds. I would buy another one in a heartbeat as long as it’s sorted.

[@digitalworldhd5636]

David I have lots of respect for you and the videos you make to show the general public the tricks of the trade. Any mechanic that can work on variety of European cars without fear like yourself is considered a MASTER MECHANIC. I hope you make a video showing the entire Jaguar community how to replace the rear sway bar bushings on 2004 to 2009 Jaguar XJ8 without having to drop the subframe. Now that is my challenge to you.

[@MOE-db8oc]

Ford stole that chassis/standard drive train for the 2000 to 2006 Thunderbird and Lincoln LS. The LS had similar body lines. It is pretty. Those never came with the supercharger or the electronic ride. That V8 was peppy and sounded good when pushed. Transmission was junk. Ran hot and burned up easy. Those were notorious for having the plastic coolant elbows wear through and blow out from just coolant flow. If one is leaking, replace them all and the water pump while your at it.

[@gstevens6948]

I always call those years the Ford “Taurus” Jags….🤣

[@NVRAMboi]

To my surprise, had the headliner ('05 Dodge Grand Caravan SE) repaired here locally (through the dealer where I purchased the van new) for

[@68michthor]

Big changes between the earlier Jags with these, even though they don’t look it. Aluminium construction means they’re really light for the size and type of car they are.

[@martins4118]

If you can't afford to own and maintain an expensive car like a Land Rover, Bmw, Mercedes, etc, it's not smart to buy one. Don't be the type of person like Wizard said who own an expensive car with an expensive issue, accuse your mechanic of ripping you off when they tell you the high price only to attempt a DIY, screw something up and call the mechanic back for help.

[@willoverkill8461]

Love this last of the classic body style with the aluminum body

[@DudesaidMIKE]

That 4.2 starter sound is iconic, core memory for me from dads 05 XKR and my 09 XK

[@h7pubg]

how was the reliability on your 09 xk? we have a 08 xk with 104k miles and just curious what kind of things to expect

[@DudesaidMIKE]

@@h7pubg as long as routine maintenance is proper, and things are addressed as they came, I hit 207k miles no major mechanical failures. Fluids like trans and differential are critical. The 4.2 is a very, very good motor if you’re good to it. Under stressed as all can be, and will continue to do so.

[@h7pubg]

@@DudesaidMIKE thank you, that’s inspiring, hoping to see it last like yours, i’ve heard horror stories of people needing xkr engine rebuilds at 100k which is a little scary, transmission fluid was done but i’m not sure about differential fluid, but we plan to keep it long term, not in it for resale in a couple years or anything, im in a similar boat as you are but slightly different, I have a 99 XK8, dad drove it when his car had issues and loved it so much, so he wanted me to find him a jag, I found the 2008 xk locally with a little over 100k, we got it, thought he would like it better than mine, but after a few months I think he likes the x100 a lot more with the quiet steel body, so we go back and forth, the 99 might need a trans rebuild in the future because of a reverse delay, got it last summer, but otherwise they have been reliable so far

[@DudesaidMIKE]

@@h7pubg dads 05 we acquired with 50,000 miles from the original owner. Only major service aside from the supercharger service at 100k was a set of fuel injectors from it sitting. One went out and we did all 8, since removing the supercharger is a hefty labour service itself. I have a few old videos of it on my channel from when we first got it, Zircon Blue with Tan and Mahogany wood interior. My 09 coupe is black on black. Jaguars seem to be a family thing, for sure 👏🏼

[@williamosgood3565]

Beautiful automobile. The shop I worked for did the collision work for the local Jaguar dealer back then. Not bad to work on once you learn their quirks. Once Ford took over, their quality improved a lot. The dealer used to call the shop trying to drum up service work. Not enough of them were breaking down to keep them busy.

[@robertparker6141]

My 2004 XJ8 broke down a lot in 4 years with less than 70,000 miles. Buyers told me that no one would pay book value for the car because tomorrow they may have to pay for an expensive repair. Their used selling price is cheap because you'll pay thousands for repairs every year. My biggest worry was traveling a long distance in it and a breakdown a thousand miles from a dealer !! These cars are not for the average person used to a reliable car Toyota.

[@Svtdude302]

Great looking Car, always had a thing for Jags! This headliner issue was problem even in the generation prior to this. such a shame!

[@paulrose6359]

I owned an XJ but the reliability issues after a while made me sell it off. But my God, I loved the road feel and looks.

[@jaysonkirsch1937]

I used to be a part owner if a auto trim shop back in the 90's and headliners were easy and a good money maker for us but times have changed. I am an independent contractor now and loving it!

[@Texmotodad]

This is an "automobile"- not just a car. Thx for showing us this!!

[@Nudnik1]

I worked on 1970s models..Lots of issues. That one is beautiful car. Reliable now. Love British cars.

[@houseofno]

I think this is model still from the Ford PAG (Premium Auto Group) era in which Ford owned Jaguar, Volvo, and Aston Martin. Nice looking Jaguar. I liked Jaguar better when it was under Ford ownership instead of now in which it is now under the Tata Group (Asian company that has NO idea about this brand's heritage and designs them like they don't care either). That headliner looks like another job for Lowen (hope I spelled their name correctly) Upholstery.

[@nigeldewallens1115]

I don't think I have commented before but I want to know as I am enjoying seeing your videos in 4K ut us wonderful thanks, as the clarity is just magical!! Keep up the good work as I am English but living in France! :)

[@irvingmartinez7063]

Wow my 04 jag xjr has 180,xxx miles and its still going nice video :)

[@nocturnalreclamation4427]

Thank you Wizard family for doing a video on this car, MY car. Same exact color. You helped me learn a lot more about my Jag

[@thejamesieboy]

Nice looking car, personally I prefer the older ones as that version has the bonnet (Hood) opening the wrong way for a XJ. Also looks "bloated" and not as sleek compared to the older ones as well, but at least they still looked like a Jag. I have the Daimler (Vanden Plas) version of the previous model. I am in my early 40's had it 11 yrs and have no intention of ever selling it.

[@billnicholas1381]

Loved the video. I have an 08 Vanden Plas with 63,000 mi. I’d love to get the car to you for service but Kansas is a little far. Keep the videos coming you and your family deserve the best and enjoy life.

[@hayden7198]

Best looking sedan of all time right there

[@atribecalledcookies4]

Love the 98-04 xjr's, watch those timing chain tensioners on the early ones.

[@tomjones5079]

Owned the same car. Local upholstery guy did the headliner and sunroof cover for $350. Cheapest thing ever done on the Jag

[@vitaliyfedonchuk768]

I own a 2004 XJR since 2012 Love it.

[@vitaliyfedonchuk768]

It’s a all Aluminum body. Very fast

[@stuttgart9000]

@@vitaliyfedonchuk768 I own one myself, 230K miles, drives Beautiful, so many compliments :)

[@markbrown6236]

I pointed out that missing bolt. Glad to be able to help, as I have learned so much from watching these videos.

[@nathanjames1142]

Love it, and this gen you don't have to worry about the plastic timing chain tensioners. I have a 2001 XJ8 that has been very reliable.

[@CyberCurtainTwitcher]

I love the older jaguars and have had the pleasure of owning two in my lifetime. The last being a 1988 3.6 Ltr Sovereign that I had for 7 years. They were so easy to work on and you could get absolutely anything you needed for it. Personally, I've never driven another car that rode so smooth on the road.

[@zzoinks]

Wow! Jaguar really didn't change up the design much from that long ago.

[@tamarab8972]

I agree, Jags no longer are elegant Jags, but more like Accord design

[@peoplehavetherights]

I have a standard naturally aspirated long wheelbase XJL. I have driven it some 30000 miles with NO reliability issues. Cat now has 99000 miles and I will replace the trans fluid. Car was a garage queen.

[@DavidVlogz]

These cars look great when in good condition I saw one cruising I was doing 75 and it passed me like nothing looked like it was a floating cloud

[@alteredstateskustom]

My buddy has a mint 06-07 Vanden plas He got it for $3500 because it wouldn’t start. Turned out it was a weak battery. He loves the car. The vent on the diff was plugged. It blew out all the diff fluid and he had to have the gears replaced. That cost him a fortune!

[@DavidJones-qg2yp]

Had an 06 xj8l. One of my favorite cars of all time but had its share of stupid problems over the 8 years I had it. Would still own another one in a heartbeat.

[@h7pubg]

what kinds of problems?

[@DavidJones-qg2yp]

Things like one of the power windows stopped working and they had to replace the complete wiring harness in the door. Thermostat is made of plastic that invariably cracks over time and causes overheating issues.

[@DavidJones-qg2yp]

Headliner doesn't stay up, intermittent wiper system is crap while being expensive to replace.

[@kelbymorgan]

Great video on the Jag! It took me four years to find this XJR. I looked at probably 20+ XJ’s before purchasing this one.

[@tayzonday]

I EXPECT a Jaguar to leak and squeak - if it’s at a zoo and recently born.

[@linussjoberg3116]

Tay!! What are you up to these days?

[@msalzberg4962]

The hood ornament is a "leaper," no longer allowed for safety issues. The head-on "kitty" is a Growler. Leapers and growlers.

[@EtonieE25]

Wizard love your up front honestness man! 😎 And that car in that colour is amazing 👍 The running costs ☹️

[@garyjones2335]

honest .... 2500 for a headliner that at headliner epress in florida is 600 dollars with lifetime warranty materials and fitting....a wizard mechanic that cant tune up carbs or tune cars ..... weird as hell

[@JacobL711]

my first car (I'm 21) was and still is a 2008 xjr. Expensive to maintain maybe(just like most European cars lol), worth the elegance, power and luxury. Keep up the wizarding car Merlin 🔥🙏👌👍👍👍

[@christoguichard4311]

JAAAAAAG...🤣🤣🤣 That headliner...what a nightmare job 😖 I've had two Jags...XJ6's... beautiful cars.

[@stevenbrannan9775]

I am a lifelong Jag fan and own a 2004 XJ8 in the same color (Slate). Mine has about the same mileage and is in superb condition but there are a few things to look out for. You caught the drooping headliner but the transmission should get a full oil change and at least a couple of seals underneath it replaced. Looks like your XJR has had this done. Sealed for life transmissions are a marketing joke and this needs to be done on this car before 80,000 miles or error codes will start cropping up and if you are really unlucky new solenoids will be required. The front air struts commonly need replacing - I put rebuilt Jag units for mine and have been very happy with them. Depending on where the car was driven, it is likely that many of the rubber suspension parts and ball joints etc will need replacing. All of this work is surprisingly affordable. One last pointer, the gear change cable has a tendency to lose its captive bolt and you will never know what gear you are in. It is accessible from under the side of the car and takes 2 minutes to fix. Great video!

[@pedazodetorpedo]

"just 4.2 litres" 😂 that would be an enormous engine in the UK where most engines are below 2L

[@Deeky76]

That's because we can ram more power out a 2.0 engine than the yanks can from a 5.0 ... Go figure

[@richardautenzio8117]

I love Jags too Mrs Whizard. But mostly the older ones like this. The new ones just don't do it for me. I would sooner have a Toyota Camry. If a JAG doesn't look like a JAG and without the timber and classic leather and looks more like a Mazda 6, then the Mazda will do. I have a 1996 XJ6 X330 LWB with the simpler more practical straight 6 engine. No other car will give me the traditional luxury I love. It the difference between an emotionless digital watch and a beautiful classic analogue dress watch.

[@cnw8891]

I replaced the headliner in my 2005 GTO in 2017 or 2018. I used blue suede to match the blue interior. It wasn't so bad. I looked at a couple tutorials and took my time. It still looks great

[@brentcowan8077]

Owned the exact car for 10 years..best ride ever!! I live in Canada and didnt undercoat the car because it's all alloy ...except for rear subframe which rusted out. Had arnott suspension minas gallery ss exhaust and ss pully 0-60 in 4.2 seconds with some mods

[@jynxclover]

now thats awesome when you have fans and followers that pay that close attention to your content to find a missing bolt. you must be doing something right, car wizard!

[@travkatz]

My 2005 was identical in every way except mine had charcoal interior. Best car I ever owned. A true keeper.

[@stuttgart9000]

Same here, Love my Jaguar and many people Love it too, constant compliments

[@soumentalukder4750]

Imagine a car that combined the looks (exterior & interior) of this Jaguar ,with the reliability of a Toyota or Honda 👀

[@golden.lights.twinkle2329]

Toyota Crown. Only available in Japan.

[@Grandpaneedsblood]

Dumb thing to say this is one of the most reliable car to own

[@Cragified]

I have the easiest solution to drooping headliners. 1. Pull down the fabric, it's just going to keep peeling off the foam. You can't stop it. 2. Get a shop vac and a very stiff dusting brush attachment and scrub off all the crumbly foam which gets sucked into the vacuum. 3. Enjoy your annoyance free headliner that still insulates and looks way more decent then a drooping thing with a half dozen tacks in it.

[@NZotyoka81]

All Jaguar has a headliner issue. You can get from online a perfectly precutted oem fabric.

[@volvo09]

I remember when it was normal for all cars to have failed headliner glue before it was 10y old! Every 70's or 80's car my family and relatives owned had a sagging or tacked in headliner. The memories of it hitting my head in the backseat.

[@NZotyoka81]

@@volvo09 Well i don’t know where do you live but as a Europian i only expereinced it in the US. The sun is much stronger there then in Europe plus the whole enviroment is different. Humidity, road quality, gas quality. Etc. In Europe cars are ageing differently. A 10 years old used car usually doesn’t have peeling clear coat, sagging headliner or cracked dashboard. Here only fords and jaguars has sagging headliners. Volvos only have the leather interior problems but overall they looking good here. In the States the whole car topic looks differently.

[@trevorstevens2889]

I like Car Wizard videos because you get an in depth look at the undercarriage in many of them which is very rare but also sometimes very useful.

[@HeavyTanker-vx4oq]

Entirely familiar with these things, kinda. Lincoln LS Owner here, 2 of them actually. I love em, but they are unreliable things.

[@seanoreilly6551]

One of the last true Jag's timeless. Still remember driving my boss's V-12 it was so luxurious.

[@Julian-do7bv]

Wow it is in fantastic condition well worth the money to keep it that way

[@benbrant3101]

Thanks for letting me visit your shop again.

[@rudithedog7534]

How come headlining is such a problem in the us, in over 40 years of buying cars, not as a profession just as a regular Joe, I have never had problems with headliners. I'm living in Ireland btw great shoe love the content.

[@porsche928s4]

Heat, it gets over 100 quite often here

[@rudithedog7534]

@@porsche928s4 Ah so, the heat must effect the glue and cause the headliner to separate, thank you

[@11sfr]

@@rudithedog7534 Rover interiors had issues with the climate, too. The 800's dashboard warped in the heat, and the grey and tan leather seats turned green in the sun. Was especially a problem in south Florida and southern California, which, unfortunately, were also the areas where Rover/Sterling tended to sell the most cars

[@Hattonbank]

It was the foam on the back of the cloth that deteriorated.

[@kaspar_1982]

i had a 2004 xjr purchased in 2009 for 22 grand with 44000 miles. i loved this car. sold it to a friend who still has her with 138000 miles. he has replaced water pump, struts, bushings, and of course battery, brakes, and tires. a local non Jaguar mechanic has taken care of and its been a daily driver. no other problems and no headliner issues. he says he will keep her to the end of his days.