1998 Jaguar XJ 4.0L Petrol · S675 AAP

This Jaguar XJ’s most recent MOT test on 2025-04-12 confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded. The consistent pass history over the past five years—including a clean slate in 2024 and 2023 despite a minor administrative failure in January 2023—suggests no recurring mechanical issues have been detected by the tester. However, the gap between the 2023 failure and the 2021 pass (over two years) raises questions about whether interim maintenance was overlooked, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the absence of advisories in later tests. The recorded mileage of 66,082 miles over nearly 28 years equates to roughly 2,360 miles annually, a figure unusually low for a vehicle of this vintage. The most significant mileage jump appears between the 2021 and 2023 tests, where the odometer increased by approximately 4,000 miles in under two years—suggesting the car was actively driven during that period. The extended gap between the 2023 failure and the 2024 pass (13 months) with no recorded mileage movement implies the vehicle may have stood unused, which could accelerate wear on components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers due to lack of movement. The 2025 test’s clean result does not provide insight into whether these components were serviced or replaced during the intervening period. Given the lack of advisories or defects in recent MOTs, the most critical areas for an in-person inspection would be the suspension geometry and condition of the coil springs and bushes, particularly at the rear where binding or uneven wear is common in older Jaguars. The brakes, including rear binding calipers and front disc thickness, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, as the absence of advisories does not guarantee they have been serviced. Structural integrity is another concern—examine the sills, wheel arches, and subframe for corrosion, especially around the rear axle where standing water can accelerate rust. The 2023 failure, though administrative, hints at potential oversight in maintenance, so verifying service records for items like timing belt (if applicable), fuel system integrity, and exhaust emissions would be prudent. The low mileage does not negate the need for thorough checks; rather, it underscores the importance of confirming that critical components have been properly maintained despite minimal usage.