2002 Jaguar XJ8

XJ SPORT Sedan

4.0L 3996CC 244Cu. In. V8 GAS DOHC Naturally Aspir

Automatic

SAJDA12C52LF42096

Clear

GAS

2002 Jaguar XJ SportLimited EditionCalifornia CarThe limited edition XJ Sport model was only offered in the north american market for two years, it offered many of the features of the supercharged XJR such as 18" alloys with low profile tires and sport-tuned suspension, body color grill surround and trunk plinth plus the identical interior with sport seats, but with the normally aspirated engine. The 1998-2003 Jaguar X308 series is regarded by many to be the last of the true Jaguars. More powerful and refined than its XJ6 predecessor, sportier and sleeker than its X350 replacement. The trick is to buy the right one, that has been sorted out and has had the recommended upgrades done. From the start the all new AJV8 4.0 alloy engine set new standards for power and efficiency, but several years after release a few potentially serious problems with the original design surfaced. 1998-2000 models had Nikasil plated cylinder bores that could be negatively affected by high sulfur fuels and lose compression resulting in hard starting and loss of power (BMW and Porsche also used this process at the time). Thermostats and water pumps were known to fail plus ABS modules would go out, driver's door checks can break. But by far the most notorious problem was with timing chain tensioners. 1998-2002 engines used several versions of plastic bodied tensioners that could develop cracks that led to failure resulting in the chains jumping or even breaking. If you were lucky sometimes there were warning signs before disaster such as a rattle from the front of the engine accompanied by rough idle. This usually meant that the chain had only jumped one tooth on the cam sprocket. In this case the engine should be shut off and the car towed to the dealer or experienced independent shop and have the tensioner/chain upgrade done. If the chain jumps two teeth or breaks, then the pistons meet the valves and you now own a "Mechanic's Special". Aside from the mechanical, there have also been cosmetic issues most notably sagging headliners especially in the concave area over the rear seat and above the visors. The glue used reacted with the foam backing of the headliner material and causing it to separate and droop. It can not be re-glued, the headliner biscuit must be removed, cleaned and new material applied. Also many 2000 model year cars developed a milky appearance to the wood veneer and cars left out in the elements can suffer sun bleaching to the walnut veneers and cracks to the wood's clear finish. If you scroll down, I have posted a couple of articles from "Jaguar World Monthly" that cover the engine issues in much greater detail..If you are considering a XJ8 prior to the 2003 model year, do yourself a favor and make sure that the suggested upgrades are completed and you will have a classic luxury car at a bargain price that will provide years and miles of enjoyment. Buy one that has not, and well, you have been warned...This 2002 XJ Sport has had the timing chains, tensioners & guide rails replaced, new water pump, thermostat, coolant cross-over pipe, hoses and serpentine belt replaced, ABS pump rebuilt with lifetime warranty, new headliner, new front brake rotors, new brake pads front & rear, new 255/40ZR 18 tires front & rear, driver's door check replaced. I have also added some cosmetic upgrades including a wood & leather steering wheel, burl walnut shift knob and burl walnut wood overhead console trim. The car has never been out of the state of California... If you are wondering what my "Creds" are, I will tell you that I have been associated with Jaguar at the dealership level going back to 1977. I have personally sold 1000+ new Jaguars and many used. I have been twice chosen to the prestigious Jaguar "Team of Professionals" and rewarded with trips to the Jaguar factory in England, also the engine plant in Wales where the AJV8 engine is assembled and the Jaguar design center at Whitley. Now, semi-retired, I enjoy seeking out well cared for examples of these fine automobiles and then using my accumulated knowledge and expertise, sorting them out properly before passing them on to their next owner. I don't know about you, but I would rather have a nice pre-owned Jaguar than most any other new vehicle available today. Jaguars are more than just mere transportation, they are an extension of your personal sense of style...