1990 Jaguar XJS 5.3L Petrol · H2 XJC

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 26 June 2025 with no defects recorded, continuing a consistent run of passes dating back to 2019. Across the eight tests documented in the DVSA history there have been no failures and only a single advisory, issued in June 2025 for an oil leak not considered excessive under item 8.4.1 (a) (i). The absence of any repeat advisories, structural corrosion notices, or component-specific warnings suggests a stable maintenance trend, and the clean 2026 test indicates that whatever minor remedial action may have been taken following the 2025 advisory has not introduced further concerns. Overall the test history is reassuringly consistent for a vehicle of this vintage and does not point to any developing pattern of deterioration. The recorded mileage of 28,018 miles over approximately 36 years equates to an annual average of around 778 miles, which is exceptionally low even for a car often used only occasionally. Such limited running is typical of a cherished or garage-kept example but carries its own mechanical implications. Extended periods of standing can be more damaging than regular use, allowing moisture to accumulate in the engine oil, brake fluid to absorb water and lose boiling point resistance, and fuel system components to degrade. Corrosion on brake discs, caliper seizure, and perished rubber components are all common consequences of low annual mileage, and these factors must be weighed against the benefit of minimal wear on the drivetrain, clutch, and suspension. Given the age of the vehicle and the low accumulated mileage, physical inspection should focus primarily on age-related deterioration rather than wear from use. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber compounds degrade with time regardless of tread depth, and any tyres over six years old should be replaced regardless of appearance. The brake discs and calipers should be inspected for surface corrosion, binding, or seized slide pins, as these are common after long idle periods and can cause pulling, vibration, or uneven braking on test. The 12 volt battery is likely to have suffered from chronic undercharging given the low annual mileage, so its age, resting voltage, and load test results should be verified before purchase. Fluid condition and service history require careful scrutiny in view of the time the vehicle has been on the road. Brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid if fitted should all be considered life-expired based on calendar age rather than mileage, and fresh fluid changes are strongly advisable. The engine oil and filter are likely overdue if annual mileage has been low, as most manufacturers recommend time-based oil changes. Given the 2025 advisory for an oil leak, it would be prudent to inspect the sump, valve cover gaskets, and rear main seal area for seepage and to check for fresh staining on the undertray or driveway. Finally, verifying the completeness of the service book stamps, ensuring timing belts or chains and their associated tensioners have been replaced within manufacturer intervals, and checking for any signs of rodent damage or perished hose clips in the engine bay will provide further confidence in what is otherwise a well-presented but age-sensitive motor car.