2007 Jaguar XKR 4.2L Petrol · MWS 1

The most recent MOT test on 2026-02-14 resulted in a failure due to a supplementary restraint system fault and a passing with an advisory for front brake pads wearing thin, which was also noted in the prior test. This marks a deviation from the vehicle’s previous clean MOT history, where no defects were recorded between 2019 and 2024, indicating a potential issue with the airbag system or its wiring harness that has not been rectified. The presence of a persistent brake pad wear advisory suggests either prolonged low-speed operation, aggressive braking habits, or a design characteristic that accelerates pad consumption. The failure highlights a critical roadworthiness concern that must be addressed before purchase, as the airbag system is essential for passenger safety and its malfunction could compromise crash protection. The recorded mileage of 37,391 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 19 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 1,968 miles per year, which is significantly below the typical expectations for a high-performance vehicle of this class. Such low mileage often reflects periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored in a garage or kept in a low-traffic environment. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee optimal condition, as standing vehicles can suffer from issues such as brake disc corrosion from moisture, binding calipers due to rust, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Additionally, the absence of recent mileage accumulation means consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components may not have experienced the wear typically associated with higher usage rates, but this also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to regular, aggressive driving conditions that could accelerate wear. Given the recent MOT failure and the supplementary restraint system fault, the buyer should prioritise addressing the airbag system issue first, as this is a safety-critical component. The airbag deployment mechanism, sensors, or wiring harness may require professional inspection to confirm the fault’s origin and ensure it can be repaired or replaced. Concurrently, the front brake pads being worn thin warrant immediate attention, as further reduction in pad thickness could lead to metal-to-metal contact, causing damage to the brake discs and potentially compromising braking performance. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake noise, a grinding sensation when applying the brakes, or excessive pedal travel, which could indicate pad wear or disc warping. Additionally, inspect the brake fluid level and condition—low or contaminated fluid can exacerbate brake system issues. For the buyer, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a thorough physical inspection is essential beyond the MOT checks. Begin by examining the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre structure and lead to blowouts, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without rotation. Check the tyre tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressure. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, scoring, or binding, particularly near the front wheels where standing conditions are most likely to cause rust. The brake calipers should be free of rust and should move smoothly when the brake pedal is depressed; binding calipers can cause uneven braking and require lubrication or replacement. The suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should be checked for excessive play, clunking noises during cornering, or signs of wear such as cracked bushings or worn strut mounts. Finally, verify the condition of the 12V battery and starter motor, as low-mileage vehicles can suffer from battery drain from parasitic loads or prolonged inactivity. Test the battery voltage when the engine is off and check for corrosion on terminals. Additionally, consult the service history for any time-based fluid servicing, such as brake fluid flushes every two years or oil changes, which are critical for maintaining performance and preventing corrosion.