2002 Jaguar S-Type 4.2L Petrol · AM52 ATF

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a clear degradation in suspension and braking component health. The most recent test in August 2024 at 96,190 miles identified new issues including worn rear brake discs and deteriorated ball joint dust covers on the front. While the car passed without defects in 2023 and 2021, the emergence of multiple mechanical advisories in the latest inspection suggests that components are reaching their functional limit despite the low annual mileage. At 96,190 miles, this Jaguar has covered relatively little for its age, averaging approximately 4,000 miles per year. However, there is a significant gap in the record between April 2023 and August 2024, during which the vehicle covered only 3,682 miles. This low-use pattern often correlates with the failure of rubber components and accelerated corrosion, which is consistent with the recurring reports of leaking shock absorbers and corroded brake pipes in the history. The car appears to sit for long periods, which can exacerbate the issues noted between tests. A buyer must prioritise a thorough structural inspection of the outer sills and chassis, as records from 2019 and 2020 specifically flagged rust and corrosion coverage. The suspension system requires immediate attention; the tester noted oil misting shocks as early as 2019 and most recently found deteriorated front ball joint dust covers. Furthermore, the braking system shows a history of pipe corrosion and recent pitting on the rear discs. The 2024 test indicates a need to verify that the reported corrosion on the front brake pipes has not progressed to structural failure since the last inspection.