Stratstone Experience

[wjohnkeegan]

Hi, I bought a 2005 (reg Jul 2006) XKR 4.2s Conv with 34000 miles on the clock from Stratstone's at Burnam at the end of Sept. It has been full of faults - on delivery it had not been valeted, the passenger heated seat was faulty and the drivers side washer was perforated. The car obviously had not been properly prepared despite the £30,750 I paid for it. Since then it has been returned an astonishing 10 times (450 miles extra on the clock) for failures including - wingmirror foldback module, blue tooth module, condensation in the offside headlamp, offside xenon bulb failure, hazard warning failure, low coolant warning (new header tank and sensor fitted), central locking failure, new battery, auto steering column adjustment failure, heated windscreen failure, DSC system failure warning light on start up, drivers door striker plate faulty, passenger window memory loss in the ice. I will be seeking substantial compensation for loss of enjoyment and inconvienience. However, when the car works it is absolutely stunning, and a real pleasure to look at and drive. Have I just been unlucky? John Keegan

[FELIX456]

Welcome to the art of living with a Jaguar! I do think you have been mainly unlucky, although a lot of the issues may have stemmed directly from a dodgy battery. These beasts like a good battery!
Having had Jags for many years, I have come to accept you only really have one if you really want one....and boy, do I really want one, actually I have three.
If you want something that gets you from A to B with no character or personality I hear the germans make cars too these days.
Having a Jaaaaag is special. Love her, enjoy her, be patient with her and treat her beautifully, and she will give it back in spades.
Welcome to the art of Jaguar ownership.
Luv
Tara x

[mike020150]

Hi John,
You really have been unlucky with a host of ailments! However, as Tara pointed out, there does seem to be a common thread of electrical issues. Batteries in good shape are key to healthy electrics. Modern cars are so reliant on them and very susceptible to electrical problems if batteries are boost charged to eke out their lives. Hence, it's worth changing any battery which is showing early signs of low voltage (typically, windows which lose the drop memory positions). Mike.

[NormanD]

Hi, I bought a 2005 (reg Jul 2006) XKR 4.2s Conv with 34000 miles on the clock from Stratstone's at Burnam at the end of Sept.

Since then it has been returned an astonishing 10 times (450 miles extra on the clock) for failures including

John, I realise you want these items fixes under Warrenty but there is a VERRY good Independant in our area, Tom & TLJaguar 0n 0118-976-2899

The Dogs Whatsits when it comes to XK8R's

[mike020150]

Whilst I agree there are good independents out there. If the guy has bought the car in good faith from a reputable dealer then surely the Sale of Goods act applies & should be fixed under warranty.
I also agree with Mike's Comments re Batteries In my experience once the window syndrome starts change the Battery.I have been lucky my 1997 he X300 is still performing well on her original Whereas the 1998 XK8 is on number three each one failing a month prior to the warranty running out so were both changed FOC Each failure being proceeded by the windows playing up. I notice Bosch now come with a 5 year warranty
Hope this helps.
Regards JWB

[wjohnkeegan]

Thanks to all for your helpful responses. I went to the top of the shop and Stratstones have now replaced the car with a new shape XK convertible which is stunning, along with a servicing package by way of compensation. Well done them for finally resolving the situation to my satisfaction.

[mike020150]

Well done. I love a story with a happy ending! Mike.