Jaguar/Daimler XJ 1994-2003: The Essential Buyer’s Guide (Essential Buyer's Guide series)

Anyone shopping for a 1994 to 2003 XJ will find this book informative. The exception would be those who have previously owned one of these XJ's or have a mechanic who is knowledgeable on this era of Jaguar.I am fairly knowledgeable about cars and have done most repairs and upgrades to my cars over the past thirty years. In other words, if it can break on a car, I have probably fixed it. As a result, I thought that I had a reasonable amount of knowledge on what to look for when shopping for just about any used car.When I began my search for an XJ8 I quickly came to understand that there are specialized things about these cars that one with ordinary car mechanic knowledge would not know to look for in their evaluation. For example, the book provides straight-forward methods for checking out things like: * Measuring the cars stance which will reveal a sagging suspension, a common and expensive repair. * Testing the A/C to see if it is holding a proper charge (no tools required) * Details on what to consider if you are buying a car with an early nikasil engine. * Accurate information on how to avoid a nikasil engine. The Internet is loaded with inaccuracies on this topic. * Proper tolerances for play in the drive lineBuying an XJ8 and finding out later that any of these repairs are needed could be a very expensive oversight or a blown negotiating point.The book has only sixty-four pages which may appear thin to some. However the most pertinent information that you will need is included and it has a useful index in the back of the book. It is printed on high quality paper that will hold up well over time.The book could do a better job of differentiating some of the nuances between the six and eight cylinder cars. It often uses the word "early" to describe items about the cars that can leave the reader wondering if the author is referring to early as in 1994 when this model of XJ was introduced or early as in 1997-98 when the XJ8 was introduced. The information is there, but it could be sorted out a little better for the reader.Bottom line is, if you are serious about purchasing one of these cars, the cost of the book is well worth the information that you will receive.

This book was a disappointment and certainly not worth the $17 plus price. First it had the specifics of the various sub-models and packages in the different years (only 4) but I could get that for free on internet. The photos were small and minimal and just poorly thought out. The "inside" info that you think your getting like what to watch out for or stay away from is also minimal and in most cases just common sense for any used car checklist.The Jaguar XJ6 is a beautiful car and the book just doesn't detail how it was made, the quality control that was mandated and the customer reviews of the vehicle that would have been invaluable.I will still need to research more magazines and books to find out the info I want.Martin

ACCURATE PHOTO & DESCRIPTION OF EXACT ITEM RECEIVED NICELY PACKAGED.SELLER RECOMMENDED.

There is very little review of the different Jaguar models covered in this book. Instead, much of the book goes over general used car buying ideas (spend time inspecting the car before you buy, bring a friend to an auction so you don't over-spend, etc.).Instead of buying this book, just read the Jaguar Club Forums.

A nice overview, not a whole lot of substantive content.

Facebook forum people luv it! Great guide for the beginner or owner. I learned things I did not know, and inexpensive.

If you're looking to buy a Jaguar, do yourself a very big favor and buy this book first. Many great pointers.

Good basic info

This is an excellent book if you are thinking of buying a used Jaguar XJ8; gives very comprehensive details of what to look out for, which model to buy and which model not to buy. My husband has found it extremely useful.

excellent -'does what it says on the tin' A lovely introduction to the best of British - an invaluable guide though pricey! but a great testament to the trump card of motoring - the real jag!

ALL YOU EVER WANT TO KNOW ABOUT THE MIGHTY JAGUAR,, DONT BUY A CLASSIC JAGUAR WITHOUT ONE, VERY INFORMATIVE,,WITH ALL THE KEY POINTS,. GREAT ILLUSTRATION PHOTO,S ,,,,WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND, A DOWN TO EARTH READ,,

This book is a MUST HAVE if you are about to buy a X300 or if you have one.Lots of colour pics, lots of facts and lots of knowledge about owning a Jaguar X300

Very useful Jaguar book.A must have if you are after or own this model.Well written and easy to follow.Lots of useful tips and ideas.