2001 Jaguar XJ 3.2L Petrol · LD51 FME

The most recent MOT test on January 15, 2026, resulted in a failure—though notably, no defects were recorded, which suggests the vehicle was either tested under an exemption or the failure was procedural rather than mechanical. The preceding tests from 2021 to 2025 all passed without advisories or defects, indicating a stable maintenance record over the past five years. The absence of recurring issues in the MOT history implies the vehicle has not experienced persistent problems with suspension components, brake binding, or structural corrosion—areas commonly flagged in vehicles of this age. However, the January 2026 failure warrants clarification, as it contradicts the otherwise clean history. The recorded mileage of 144,173 miles over 25 years equates to approximately 5,767 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than average for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—ranging from 10 to 12 months—suggest the car has been stored or used intermittently, which may have mitigated some wear. The most extended period between tests was between November 2021 and November 2022, where mileage increased by only 13,332 miles, reinforcing the low-usage pattern. While this reduces the likelihood of accelerated wear on high-mileage components, it also means some parts may have been neglected due to infrequent driving. Given the lack of advisories or defects in the MOT history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of suspension integrity, particularly the coil springs and bushes, as these are common failure points in older Jaguars. The rear brakes, which are often overlooked in low-mileage vehicles, should be checked for uneven wear or binding—though the history suggests no prior issues. Structural corrosion, particularly around the sills, wheel arches, and subframe, must be examined, as prolonged storage can accelerate rust development. Finally, the engine bay should be inspected for fluid leaks, as the failure in January 2026—despite no recorded defects—could indicate an undiagnosed issue such as a failing oil pump or coolant system.