Scanning S-Type owner surveys online gave mixed results. Many high-buck cars give skewed impressions as owners justify their expensive machine by rating it ‘perfect’ in every category. Let’s just say that if you wind up like most Jaguar S-Type owners, you’re probably going to love a lot about it.
That’s not to say everything, though. Jaguars in the used market tend to be more about image, sophistication and luxury, and less about sensibility, efficiency or reliability.
On a test-drive, you’ll want to ensure proper operation of the automatic climate control system. At least a few dozen owners online reported sporadic problems with the AC system and automatic climate control function.
A rough idle or poor performance could be caused by carbon buildup within the V8 engine, requiring a special cleaning agent to remove, periodically.
Note the quality of gear shifting with the automatic transmission, as well as the condition of the clutch if you’re going with a five-speed manual equipped model. Any grinding or slipping when shifting a manual gearbox should be questioned-- as should any harsh shifts or slippage with an automatic.
Note the feel of the brakes, too. If they feel excessively spongy, or if they squeal or vibrate during stopping, the vehicle needs a brake job. Bring this to the table when it comes time for pricing negotiations.
That said, there weren’t any major S-Type engine issues that popped up during investigation, which is a good sign.
There were, however, plenty of recalls. Ball joints, for instance, could fail- resulting in a crash. If the left side ball joint lets go, chances are it’ll take out a fuel line and fuel filter, too. This results in a gas leak and loss of control. Not a good situation.
Seatbelts were affected by recalls too, as was a potential fuel leak, transmission problem and fuel tanks.
Interestingly, the electronic parking brake could decide to apply itself at any time as well, with no warning. Long story short, be absolutely sure all recall work on a used S-Type you’re considering is performed.
You’ll also want to ask the vehicle’s former owner about its service history and any problems that may have been corrected. If you don’t have access to this information, a check-over by an experienced Jaguar mechanic is an especially good idea.
As many a Jaguar owner will advise you, opting for the extended warranty is a good idea, too. Jaguar is known for a lot of things, but exceptional reliability and inexpensive repairs aren’t among them.
photo:Jaguar
That’s not to say everything, though. Jaguars in the used market tend to be more about image, sophistication and luxury, and less about sensibility, efficiency or reliability.
On a test-drive, you’ll want to ensure proper operation of the automatic climate control system. At least a few dozen owners online reported sporadic problems with the AC system and automatic climate control function.
A rough idle or poor performance could be caused by carbon buildup within the V8 engine, requiring a special cleaning agent to remove, periodically.
Note the quality of gear shifting with the automatic transmission, as well as the condition of the clutch if you’re going with a five-speed manual equipped model. Any grinding or slipping when shifting a manual gearbox should be questioned-- as should any harsh shifts or slippage with an automatic.
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| 2005 Jaguar S-Type |
Note the feel of the brakes, too. If they feel excessively spongy, or if they squeal or vibrate during stopping, the vehicle needs a brake job. Bring this to the table when it comes time for pricing negotiations.
That said, there weren’t any major S-Type engine issues that popped up during investigation, which is a good sign.
There were, however, plenty of recalls. Ball joints, for instance, could fail- resulting in a crash. If the left side ball joint lets go, chances are it’ll take out a fuel line and fuel filter, too. This results in a gas leak and loss of control. Not a good situation.
Seatbelts were affected by recalls too, as was a potential fuel leak, transmission problem and fuel tanks.
Interestingly, the electronic parking brake could decide to apply itself at any time as well, with no warning. Long story short, be absolutely sure all recall work on a used S-Type you’re considering is performed.
You’ll also want to ask the vehicle’s former owner about its service history and any problems that may have been corrected. If you don’t have access to this information, a check-over by an experienced Jaguar mechanic is an especially good idea.
As many a Jaguar owner will advise you, opting for the extended warranty is a good idea, too. Jaguar is known for a lot of things, but exceptional reliability and inexpensive repairs aren’t among them.
photo:Jaguar
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