What’s A High Mileage for a Jaguar? The Facts!

Typically, when someone shops for a Jaguar, they search for the pinnacle of luxury, style, and status. Historically, Jaguar has designed some of the best-looking luxury cars compared to its German-made competitors like BMW or Audi. 

Although, despite the status of these vehicles, owners are not purchasing them for their high mileage capabilities. In truth, Jaguar vehicles aren’t known for going the distance. However, what is high mileage for a Jaguar?

Keep reading to learn more about what passes as longevity and whether or not you should consider buying them.

What’s a High Mileage For a Jaguar?

In general, Jaguars aren’t known for their high mileage capacity. It’s common for a Jaguar to last between 100,000 to 150,000 miles before having catastrophic issues. Historically, Jaguars had a terrible reputation for longevity during the 1970s when British Leyland owned the company. This was due to poor designs, materials, vehicle quality, and insufficient funding. 

What Problems Can Arise with High-Mileage Jaguar?

As I mentioned before, Jaguar was considered a high-value luxury car with a terrible sense of reliability. However, the brand has come a long way under Ford’s umbrella. Still, RepairPal ranks it only a 2.5 out of 5.0. In addition, there are several persistent problems with all Jaguar models. 

• Ignition Coil Failure – an issue that has been reported in early model years. Ignition coil malfunction would cause the engine to run poorly due to misfires. Usually affects most models from 2000-2005 at around 108,000 miles. It can cost $800 to repair the issue. 
  
  
• Transmission Failure – usually an issue with the automatics, but it is also widespread with Jaguars. It has affected older models from 2000-2006 at around 108,000 miles. This repair job can run as high as $1,800-$3,400.
  
  
• Brake Problems – a part of the ABS system called the brake pressure accumulator can fail, which causes a very stiff brake pedal. This means that a driver must apply excessive pressure to stop the vehicle. This issue seems to affect models before the 2000s. The job may cost around $2,000.
  
  
• Coolant Loss and Overheating – The coolant reservoir will consistently leak. Usually, a quick inspection of the reservoir should determine if it is cracked. However, the coolant could leak out completely and overheat the engine if it isn’t fixed. This issue affects models from 2000 to 2007 and occurs around 87,000 miles. This repair job can cost $530.
  
  
• Engine Problems – on the V8 engine of the S-Type, there have been catastrophic timing chain issues that have caused severe engine damage. Timing chain issues are serious and can rack up a total cost of $2,178-$2,536. 

Also read: Jaguar Depreciation: 6 Popular Models Compared

Do High-Mileage Jaguars Rust?

Essentially, many Jaguar models are prone to rust, and corrosion affects the brand almost as much as its recurring problems. Early model XJS, which was debuted in 1983, is definitely prone to rot, and it seems to be this model’s biggest enemy. Many areas of the XJS are vulnerable, but they can include:

• Jacking points
  
• The floorpans
  
• Around headlights
  
• Around wheel arches (front and rear)

Trending Video: How to Easily Bring Back to Life any Old Car Battery and Save Tons of Money (click to watch)

Jaguar knew they had a significant problem and started using galvanized steel for structural integrity. Unfortunately, while the galvanized steel coating on the XJS (1991-on) helps, it doesn’t completely stop the rot. Jaguars suffer significantly during the winter months due to salt application, especially the Type-X and Type-S models. Usually, the suspension component suffers more than the body itself.

What are the Most and Least Reliable Jaguars with High Mileage?

The Jaguar brand has a good batch of cars, but since the unreliable models are also plentiful, it’s difficult to just talk about the good examples. However, since Tata Motors took over the Jaguar brand, there has been a steady increase in reliability and value. 

A lot of work was put into making the brand more cost-effective to repair. Although their reputations are still tarnished because of the brand’s history. For now, the table below talks about recent reliable models.

Model	Rating	Is It Reliable?
Jaguar XJ	3.5/5.0	An all-around safe option that is similar to the XF. Upgraded safety features like lane assist forward and reverse traffic detection. Higher general satisfaction from owners.
Jaguar XF	4.0/5.0	Great safety options, even in base models. Solid-body and frame gave it a high safety rating. Fairly good diesel mild-hybrid engine helps with fuel economy.
Jaguar XK	3.0/5.0	Great speed, power, and handling. Better than previous models High safety ratings and upgraded safety features

Next, I will discuss some of the most unreliable Jaguar models and ones you should strive to stay away from in the future. 

Model	Rating	How Unreliable?
Jaguar F-Pace	2.0/5.0	Reported 186 problems per 100 vehicles Virtual Instrument cluster went blank while driving or reset Rear driveshaft was too short and would disconnect from the vehicle Fractured crankshaft pulley bolt causes engine failure Specific models would have fuel pump leaks that could cause cracked fuel lines and fires
Jaguar F-Type	2.5/5.0	Fragile electronic differentials leak and fail Major air conditioning issues Significant problems with handling and driver functionality AWD caused understeer, which increased slide from the rear wheels Very cramped interior made it difficult for drivers to drive comfortably
Jaguar XJ	2.5/5.0	Engine overheating due to frequent coolant reservoir cracks Leaking engine oil gaskets DSC Warning Light due to ABS sensor issues Airbag Faulting Power Steering Fault Loss of Brake power

How Many Miles Can a Jaguar Last?

Jaguars are notorious for high maintenance costs, making them so difficult to maintain or last as long as their competition. For instance, Jaguar’s average maintenance cost for the first 10 years is $17,636 putting the brand’s cost-to-own much higher than other luxury vehicles.

Jaguars need about $6,000 more to maintain them correctly and at least a 40% chance of needing a major repair during that time. With all of this need for upkeep, Jaguars are not expected to last beyond 150,000 miles. Some can last up to 200,000 miles, but it would be challenging to find, and even still, the engine would most likely be on its last leg. 

However, Jaguar has started to offer better warranties for their vehicles; currently, Jaguar offers a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle warranty. This should help maintain the car and keep it running smoothly, but it will still require frequent maintenance.

Also read: 10 Cars Under $20K that Look Like They’re for $50K+

How to Make Your High-Mileage Jaguar Last Long?

What is high mileage for a Jaguar? It’s not what most people expect, which is par for the course. So far, I have talked about Jaguar’s various issues and their steadily improving reputation. So if you’re an owner of a Jaguar, what can you do to keep it running smoothly and avoid losing it prematurely? 

The Jaguar brand is part of luxury car history, and throughout that timeframe, tips and tricks of successfully owning one have surfaced. However, it should be noted that if owners neglect maintenance on these vehicles, it can actually void the warranty and cost them more down the line. So, establish and perform maintenance on a schedule. 

Maintaining your Jaguar on a schedule can:

• Reduce future costs

• Reduce the need for repairs
  
  
• Keeps your car running safely

From experience, it seems that Jaguar maintenance is an ongoing process. Therefore, I advise you to do regular maintenance similar to the list below.

• Every Month – Check tire pressure and tread, inspect all interior and exterior lights, check the windshield wiper fluid, and check that the Check Engine light is not illuminated.
  
  
• Every Three Months (3,000 miles) – Inspect the engine oil, wiper fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. Inspect lights, air filters, fuel filters, belts, exhaust, hoses, and tires.
  
  
• Every Six Months (6,000 miles) – All preventative maintenance above plus windshield wipers, battery, and cables, chassis lubrication. Was the Jaguar as well.
  
  
• Every Twelve Months (12,000 miles) – Perform three and six-month checks. Check the coolant levels, steering, suspension, transmission fluid levels, and brake system.

While the interior doesn’t need near as much work, most owners want to keep their Jaguar looking pristine. Therefore, I would advise you to wash and clean the car’s exterior and interior. Vacuum out the dirt and debris and use special cleaners to care for the leather or wooden trim options. 

Is It Worth Buying a Jaguar With High Mileage?

The short answer is yes. Buyers are looking at functionality, value, and whether they can save money in the long run. Essentially, the new Jaguar worth depreciates quickly, even if the car is issue-free. So, you will automatically get excellent value for the money.

If you can’t be persuaded to choose a different luxury vehicle, buying a used Jaguar can be a good option. To be fair, a Jaguar that isn’t properly maintained will be a money pit, so do your research.

The benefits of a used Jaguar can be:

• It is easy to research a used model for recalls and commonly reported issues

• If the car has been maintained properly, you should be able to search the car’s history for accidents or major mechanical issues.

• A mechanic will thoroughly inspect the car for you to determine if it’s a durable vehicle.

Also read: BMW vs Mercedes: (Depreciation Comparison)

Conclusion

Currently, there is still a fair amount of risk when buying a Jaguar. While the brand has worked diligently to improve its brand, it is still falling behind in many aspects. For the brand to free itself from the stigma of its past, it must be innovative and consistent. In addition, Jaguar should also begin to embrace the more modern aspects of car design and manufacturing. 

While Jaguar is known for its elegance, high status, and comfortability, the stain of its failures is still all too visible. However, if the brand can push its future models well beyond the 150,000-mile lifespan, it will undoubtedly become a force to be reckoned with in the luxury car market. 

References

How Many Miles Can A Jaguar XF Last?, Jaguar Reliability – 2022 Ratings | RepairPal, Are Jaguars Reliable? A Complete Breakdown – CoPilot, 5 Common Repair Issues with Jaguars | Hance’s Uptown, How Much is a Transmission? | Jaguar Service, Brake Pedal Stiff Due to Failed ABS Accumulator on Jaguar XJ6, Jaguar XF Coolant Reservoir Replacement Cost Estimate, Jaguar S-Type Timing Chain and Gear Set Replacement Cost Estimate,Jaguar Repair & Services – Import Specialties of Columbia,Repairing A Damaged ABS Accumulator In Your Jaguar, Highest mileage engine S type, JAGUAR XJS BUYER’S GUIDE | Classics World,Rust Proofing your Jaguar — MISTERmatic, Jaguar XK Rust and Corrosion Repair | XK Repair, Best and worst older cars for reliability: luxury cars | What Car?, The 10 Best Jaguars, Jaguar XF Reliability, Safety & Euro NCAP | Auto Express, Jaguar XJ Reliability, Safety & Euro NCAP | Auto Express, Jaguar XK (2006-2015) review | Auto Express, What is the most unreliable car brand? [ Detailed Answer ], Here Are The Most Unreliable V8 Sports Cars On The Used Market, Here’s The Most Common Problems With The Jaguar F-Type,17 Most Glaring Problems With Jaguar’s SUVs, Jaguar XJ: Common Problems and Solutions | BreakerYard.com, Jaguar XJ Owner Reviews: MPG, Problems & Reliability | Carbuyer,Jaguar Maintenance Schedule and Costs,Tips to Keep Your Jaguar Running Smoothly,