WHAT TO LOOK FOR
AVOID NEGLECTED CARS
Walk away from any S-Type with a poor running/smoky engine, or a dashboard full of warning lights, because it’ll be a potential money pit. That aside, both the V6 and V8 motors are considered bulletproof if well-maintained, and plenty of independent specialists mean that servicing needn’t be costly. Early V8 bore wear shouldn’t be an issue today, but check for a noisy timing chain, failed EGR valves, collapsing catalytic convertors and leaking radiators. Replacing the ignition coils every 60k miles should prevent misfires.
CHECK THE TRANSMISSION
Although rare, manual gearboxes rarely give trouble, so just ensure that the clutch operates as it should. Automatics are gaining a reputation for problems, though, so check for rough gear shifts and a ‘box that ‘hunts’ for ratios. The later ZF six-speeder is designed to be sealed for life, but specialists recommend changing the fluid at 70-100k miles as a preventative measure. With a replacement transmission costing thousands, failure will almost certainly write off most examples so it’s an essential check.
HOW ARE THE ELECTRICS?
Central locking, electric windows and alarm systems are known problem areas, likewise wiper mechanisms, stereos and heating/air-conditioning systems. The sensible thing is to prod every knob and button to make sure it works. More bothersome is water getting into the boot via perished/ misaligned seals, which plays havoc with the battery. Refitting and permanently securing the seals isn’t difficult, but if you find an example with seemingly random warning lights and inoperative kit, this could be why. The rest of the cabin is pretty hard-wearing so just check high-milers for scuffed and damaged trim plastics, worn seat bolsters and noises.
ENGINE CHECKS
The twin-turbo diesel is tempting but turbos are known to fail, and pricey to remedy. It’s important to ensure that the diesel particulate filter is healthy, and regenerating correctly – diesel-diluted oil – and ultimate engine failure – can result if it isn’t, so get a specialist check if you have any doubts. Listen for an excessively noisy supercharger on the R’s V8 engine (a slight whine under hard acceleration is normal) and signs of a leaking water pipe beneath the blower, which is labourintensive – and therefore expensive – to rectify.
CHECK FOR ROT
Corrosion can trouble early examples, usually around the rear wheel arches, screen surrounds and sills. Panel dents, scraped bumpers and a stone-chipped nose signify a car that’s led a hard life, and headlight covers turn cloudy. Check lights for damage and ensure that headlight adjusters work as repairs are fiddly. A corroded rear subframe is uncommon but you’re looking at £1500 or so to fix it.
ENQUIRE ABOUT RECALLS
Alongside Jaguar’s own Technical Service Bulletins, the S-Type has been subject to various official recalls. These have related to issues including seat belt buckles, front lower suspension ball joints, automatic gearboxes and the diesel particulate filter. If the car you’re looking at lacks paperwork or history, then get a Jaguar dealer to check whether these issues have been attended to.
INSPECT THE SUSPENSION
Rear suspension arm bushes are a common weakness and you’re looking at £200 or so for a complete new arm. Check that front suspension and steering ball joints aren’t past their best. Brake discs can corrode on the inner faces so budget £400-500 to replace all discs and pads, and check that the electronic handbrake (where fitted) works properly. Lastly, check alloy wheels for kerbing damage.