2007 Jaguar XKR 4.2L Petrol · JH05 KER

The Jaguar XKR’s most recent MOT test on 2026-03-23—just four months ago—confirms it passed without defects, though it narrowly avoided failure the week prior at 64,591 miles. This late-stage pass suggests the vehicle was brought in at the last possible moment to comply with legal requirements, a common pattern for cars with deferred maintenance. No recurring faults or advisories appear in the record, but the near-failure at the 64,500-mile mark raises suspicion over whether minor issues were overlooked or simply not severe enough to trigger a defect. The consistent pass rates since 2023 indicate no major structural or mechanical failures, yet the lack of advisories in prior tests could imply either diligent upkeep or a tendency to ignore early warning signs. The recorded mileage of 64,604 miles over nearly 19 years—averaging just 3,400 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, particularly given its luxury status. This suggests prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and suspension components due to static load. The gaps between tests are regular, with no abrupt jumps in mileage, but the near-identical figures between the 2026 failures (64,591 and 64,604) hint at either a rushed last-minute service or a deliberate attempt to extend the MOT window. Without service records, it’s impossible to confirm whether critical items like brake fluid, differential fluid, or timing belt (if applicable) have been renewed on schedule. Given the absence of defects in the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear items that aren’t routinely checked during MOTs. The suspension—particularly rear bushes and coil springs—will show signs of age-related degradation, as will the brake calipers and discs, which may exhibit uneven wear or binding from infrequent use. Corrosion is a critical concern on a 2007 model; focus on wheel arches, sills, and the subframe for rust penetration, as this can compromise structural integrity. The exhaust system should be examined for leaks or excessive play, and the electrical system—including lights, sensors, and the infotainment unit—may require testing, as luxury vehicles often suffer from degraded wiring or failing modules over time. The near-failure in 2026 also warrants scrutiny of the braking system’s hydraulic function, as repeated near-misses could indicate a recurring issue with fluid contamination or worn seals.