Temptation!

[Tintin]

I am tempted by a 1990 4.0l sovereign auto with 75,000 miles, no service history and declared but as yet unspecified "electrical issues" (I must be absolutely mad). Seller claims bodywork and mechanicals good. Might trundle over and have a look at it this week. What are the particular issues to look for when I inspect the car?

Robbie.

[thomas45]

Hi Robbie, Since the experts have yet to advise you I can only say have a good look under. In 2004 I had an XJ40 3.2, it was a 1992 with 130k miles.
A very nice black one, looked immaculate. No mechanical or electrical problems but, after a few months of ownership I thought I would clean it up a bit underneath and apply some underseal. Thats when I found two big holes that had been bodged -up, one on each sill . Might have been worth getting new sills on but I just got rid of it.
Thomas

[Popsjag]

Hi Robbie,

I would have a good look underneath, especially sill to floor area, front and rear sill ends.
Also have a good look at the front subframe and radiator bottom mounts - prone to rusting very badly. Check for play in all four wheels and suspension ( if possible).

Check condition of interior, headlining not sagging, driver's seat bolster wear.

Check no smoke out of exhaust on cold start up. Check all lights are working, as I would assume it is hard to come by spare modules, if you have any problems.

Check door handles (outer ones) are not broken.

If electrical issues, you need to know what the current owner means, as this can be time-consuming to sort - depending on what the issues are.

The list can go on (I'm sure I've missed loads!), but it's all down to what needs doing, what you can do yourself and what you are prepared to pay.

Good luck in whatever you decide.

Steve.

[Tintin]

Thanks both for your helpful advice. I am handy with the spanners but the dreaded rot would be a deal breaker for me. Might take a jack and axle stands to inspect underneath.

I'll let you know the result.

Robbie