Faults:

Nothing really. The rear door was sticky, and would not unlock sometimes - quite an easy fix - just take the door cover, and clean and lube. It's all about preventive maintenance - I did a transmission service, replaced the thermostat housing with an aluminium one, did an oil change and coolant flush, change the belt, and it is good to go.

General Comments:

The car is beautiful to look at, and is plenty fast. Being a regular XJ (not the R), it is very quiet and soft, which I like. Some of the trim pieces are of questionable quality, although nothing had fallen off. It looks like nothing else on the road, and it makes you feel special. Nothing beats it for the money.

Faults:

The automatic steering wheel adjustment started making a funny sound. The dealer disconnected it and I don't really miss it. I may get it fixed before my extended warranty ends, it will only be $200 vs. $700.

If the gas cap is not properly replaced the engine light will come on. This seems to be fairly common since my service guy knew exactly what to do to rectify the light coming on.

A screw covering came off behind the driver door handle, but that is not momentous.

Currently there is some vibration in the steering wheel that I need to have addressed.

General Comments:

The 2003 is what I consider to be the last real year for the XJ8. Those later models are just too Ford-y for me. I bought the car on E-bay which always surprises people. I got a great deal and I love the car. It is exactly what I expected. Gas mileage is not great, but that is not a surprise.

"Big Kitty" is at her best on the highway. She just glides along effortlessly.

I had lusted after a Jaguar sedan since childhood. I considered the X and the S, but they would not have sufficed.