2006 Jaguar XJ 3.0L Petrol · LC06 OMW

A notable feature of this XJ’s MOT record is the early concentration of serious safety failures – in 2015 the off‑side front tyre was recorded with exposed cords and in 2016 the electronic parking‑brake control and rear parking‑brake effort were deemed dangerous – followed by a clean streak of passes from 2017 onward, the latest being a defect‑free result on 30 May 2024. The absence of further failures suggests those critical systems have been rectified, but the history flags the parking‑brake assembly and tyre integrity as areas that required substantial remedial work. At 101,369 mi the car averages just over 5,000 mi per year, well below the typical annual mileage for a twenty‑year‑old saloon. Such low utilisation can reduce wear on consumables, yet the five‑year gap between the 2019 and 2024 MOTs is atypical for a road‑legal vehicle and may indicate periods of storage or limited use. Age‑related degradation of rubber seals, bushings and electronic components can occur even with low mileage, so a thorough inspection of ageing parts is advisable. When you examine the rear parking‑brake system, verify that the electronic control engages firmly and that the hand‑brake lever offers a solid, progressive resistance without excessive travel. During a short test drive, listen for any grinding or pulsing when the rear brakes are applied and check that the vehicle remains stable when the parking brake is set on a gentle incline. The 2018 advisory about rear suspension‑arm wear warrants a tactile check of the rear bushings for play and a listening test for clunking over bumps; any looseness could point to the need for bush replacement or arm refurbishment. The near‑side mirror insecurity and the inner‑edge tyre wear noted in 2016 and 2018 respectively should be inspected visually and functionally. Ensure both mirrors are firmly mounted and can be adjusted without wobble, and examine the tyre tread for uneven wear patterns that might reveal mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Finally, confirm that the under‑body shield/guard remains securely fitted and that there is no corrosion or damage to the chassis or exhaust supports that could have been concealed by the fitted under‑trays. Any signs of rust, cracked panels or loose fastenings should be addressed before committing to purchase.