Does anyone out there have an xk8 Jaguar convertible anywhere from a 1999-2001?
My shop services numerous XK8’s, from 1997 to 2003, convertibles and coupes. I can tell you that the best years are between 2001 and 2003 if you enjoy the 4.0 liter. The early XK8’s (97-99) had multiple problems: poor quality timing chain tensioners, aluminum cylinder walls, and very expensive leaks from inconvenient places like the convertible top hydraulic lines, the thermostat housing and heater hoses underneath the engine’s intake manifold. The newer XK8’s (01-up) upgraded to a steel-sleeved engine block, better tensioners and have other tweaks that make them a much better car. No matter how people on here may gripe, they don’t know the cars. We see very few problems with the 01 and up XK’s. They are reliable, incredible driving machines and we recommend people purchase them if they are looking for a newer Jaguar. The poster before me has had very unusual, unfortunate luck with that particular XK8. The problems he is experiencing are NOT common.
