1993 Jaguar XJ 3.2L Petrol · K322 FNT

The MOT record shows a single episode of failure in mid‑2007 centred on rear tyre tread depth and split front steering‑rack gaiters, after which the car passed the next test in August 2007 and has no further recorded defects. That isolated failure pattern suggests that, at least at the time of testing, the primary concerns were tyre wear and the integrity of the steering‑rack boots rather than systemic mechanical decay, and the latest recorded pass indicates those specific items were remedied. With 137,650 mi logged over a 33‑year lifespan the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,200 mi, well below the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation can be indicative of prolonged periods of inactivity, which may have allowed rubber components, seals and bushings to dry out or develop cracks even though the mileage itself is modest. The MOT history also reveals a gap after 2007, meaning the car’s condition for the past two decades is not documented here and will need thorough on‑site verification. When you inspect the steering system, pay particular attention to the condition of the rack‑and‑pinion gaiters and the rack housing itself. Look for fresh or dried oil stains around the boots, feel for any excess play when the wheel is rocked at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions, and listen for a clunk or knocking noise over bumps that could indicate worn rack bushings or a deteriorating rack. Any binding or uneven steering effort on a straight‑line test could also point to lingering issues from the earlier gaiter splits. Tyre health should be assessed visually and with a tread depth gauge; verify that both front and rear tyres have at least the legal 1.6 mm tread and inspect sidewalls for cracks, bulges or dry‑rot that can develop during long storage periods. Given the car’s age, also examine suspension bushes, ball joints and shock absorbers for looseness, excessive play or leaking fluid, and test the brakes for consistent pedal feel and any judder that might signal warped discs or worn pads. A comprehensive road‑test that includes low‑speed cornering, braking and a short high‑speed run will help reveal any latent faults not captured by the historic MOT data.