2005 Jaguar XJ 3.6L Lpg · FP05 HNC

The Jaguar XJ’s most recent MOT, conducted on 8 May 2025 at 141,984 miles, passed with no defects—a positive indicator of its current roadworthiness. However, the trend over the past two years reveals a mixed picture. The May 2024 test at 131,233 miles identified persistent corrosion in the rear subframe and mountings, though not classified as seriously weakened, suggesting the issue was addressed or stabilised. The earlier failure on 2 May 2024 at just 131,228 miles—just 15 miles apart from the subsequent pass—highlighted the same corrosion alongside a worn suspension arm bush, implying the vehicle was likely repaired promptly. The absence of further failures since December 2022, when serious front and rear subframe corrosion, along with excessive play in track rod ends and anti-roll bar linkages, was recorded, suggests those critical structural and steering components were rectified. While the latest clean MOT is encouraging, the recurring corrosion advisories indicate the previous owner either delayed or partially addressed rust mitigation, particularly in the subframe areas. The XJ’s mileage accumulation—averaging roughly 6,761 miles per year over 21 years—aligns with typical usage for its age, neither excessively high nor suspiciously low. The gap between the December 2022 failure and the next test in May 2024 (nearly 14 months) suggests the vehicle may have sat unused or seen minimal driving for a period, potentially exacerbating corrosion issues. The rapid mileage increase between the two May 2024 tests (just 5 miles over two days) is unusual and likely reflects a forced correction of the failed items rather than normal usage. The absence of mileage data before December 2022 limits a fuller assessment, but the pattern does not suggest aggressive driving or neglect beyond the corrosion-related repairs. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect in person are the subframe and suspension components. The repeated corrosion advisories on the rear subframe—particularly the mountings—demand close examination for any signs of structural weakening or further deterioration, as this could compromise handling and safety. The 2022 failure also flagged seriously weakened front subframe corrosion, so checking for rust penetration, paint degradation, or soft spots in the sills and mounting points is essential. Suspension wear, specifically the track rod ends and anti-roll bar linkages, should be tested for play or looseness, as these were flagged as excessively worn in the past. Additionally, given the binding brake advisory from 2024, verifying brake caliper and disc condition, along with checking for uneven wear or corrosion, would be prudent. While the most recent MOT is clean, the history underscores the need for thorough structural and mechanical scrutiny before purchase.