2002 Jaguar S-Type 2.5L Petrol · V8 COE

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 27 October 2025 at 149,545 miles, but the failure just five days earlier at 149,540 miles reveals a pattern of recurring lighting faults that were not addressed between tests. The nearside front fog lamp and position lamp, plus the offside rear indicator, were all flagged as defective in the prior test, yet remained uncorrected until the pass. This suggests a disregard for minor but legally required safety items, indicating inconsistent maintenance rather than a systemic mechanical decline. The suspension and brake issues from earlier years show no new failures in the latest test, so the core mechanical condition appears stable, but the neglect of simple repairs raises concerns about overall care. The recorded mileage of 149,545 over 24 years averages 6,231 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests is unusual: the car dropped from 137,679 miles in October 2022 to 124,426 miles in October 2023, a reduction of over 13,000 miles. This is impossible and indicates a data entry error, casting doubt on the reliability of the record. The subsequent jump to 140,974 miles in October 2024 and then 149,540 miles in October 2025 suggests a return to normal usage, but the earlier anomaly undermines confidence in the full mileage history. A buyer must inspect the front suspension thoroughly, particularly the inner track rod end and steering rack joints, both of which have been flagged with play in three consecutive tests since 2023. These are critical for steering control and will deteriorate further if not replaced. The brake discs and pads were noted as worn but not excessive in 2023; given the high mileage and age, they are likely near or past service life now and should be checked for thickness and warping. The rear body corrosion noted in 2024, though not a failure, is a structural concern on a 24-year-old saloon and should be probed for hidden rust around wheel arches and sills. Tyre condition is also suspect — two tyres were close to the legal limit with nails in 2023, and there is no record of replacement since. All lights, especially the nearside front position lamp and rear indicators, must be verified as functional before purchase.