The 2004 Jaguar XJ, a full-size luxury sedan, represents the final year of the X308 generation. This model blends classic Jaguar styling with modern features. Key trims included the XJ8, XJR, and Vanden Plas. Pricing when new ranged from approximately $58,000 to $75,000. Its elegant design, luxurious interior, and powerful engine options made it a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated and comfortable driving experience. Its gracefully curved body and wood-trimmed interior provided a unique, opulent experience.
The Good
The 2004 Jaguar XJ boasts powerful V8 engines delivering strong performance. Its comfortable ride and luxurious interior appeal to emotional buyers. While not known for exceptional reliability, its classic design and relatively affordable price point on the used market make it a value proposition. Practical buyers appreciate its spaciousness and available features.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2004 Jaguar XJ include potential electrical issues, air suspension problems, and rust, particularly in colder climates. Watch out for coolant leaks and transmission issues. Maintenance can be expensive, and parts may be harder to source compared to some rivals. Thorough inspection is crucial before purchasing.
2004 Jaguar XJ: Quick Overview
Key specifications for the 2004 Jaguar XJ:
- Engine Options:
- 4.2L V8 (XJ8, Vanden Plas): 290 horsepower
- 4.2L Supercharged V8 (XJR): 390 horsepower
- Horsepower: 290-390 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- XJ8: Approximately 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- XJR: Approximately 15 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- XJ8: Approximately 6.5 seconds
- XJR: Approximately 5.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated.
- Trim-Level Features:
- XJ8: Leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, premium sound system, power seats, sunroof.
- Vanden Plas: Adds upgraded leather, heated rear seats, rear vanity mirrors, picnic tables (depending on the package), more luxurious trim.
- XJR: Performance-tuned suspension, sport seats, unique exterior styling, supercharged engine, upgraded brakes.
All trims featured automatic transmissions. Many options were available, including navigation systems, upgraded sound systems, and adaptive cruise control.
2004 Jaguar XJ Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Jaguar |
| Model | XJ |
| Trim | - |
| Style | SWB |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | swb |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5L V6 |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Jaguar XJ Have?
The 2004 Jaguar XJ, like other models from this era, has some frequently reported problems. Electrical issues are common, ranging from malfunctioning sensors to problems with the climate control system and infotainment. Air suspension problems are another major concern, leading to a saggy ride or complete failure. Rust can be an issue, particularly in areas that use road salt.
Coolant leaks are frequently reported, often stemming from plastic components that become brittle over time. Transmission issues, while less common, can be expensive to repair. The supercharged XJR variant, while offering exhilarating performance, can be more demanding on maintenance due to the increased stress on the engine and components.
While specific recalls for the 2004 model might be limited, checking the NHTSA website for any safety recalls is always recommended. Long-term reliability is a concern, and many examples require regular maintenance and repairs to keep them running smoothly. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended to identify potential problems before they become major expenses. Regular fluid changes and careful attention to potential warning signs can help mitigate some of these issues.
Coolant leaks are frequently reported, often stemming from plastic components that become brittle over time. Transmission issues, while less common, can be expensive to repair. The supercharged XJR variant, while offering exhilarating performance, can be more demanding on maintenance due to the increased stress on the engine and components.
While specific recalls for the 2004 model might be limited, checking the NHTSA website for any safety recalls is always recommended. Long-term reliability is a concern, and many examples require regular maintenance and repairs to keep them running smoothly. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended to identify potential problems before they become major expenses. Regular fluid changes and careful attention to potential warning signs can help mitigate some of these issues.
How long will the 2004 Jaguar XJ last?
Given its age, a 2004 Jaguar XJ is likely to have accumulated significant mileage. Well-maintained examples might reach 200,000 miles or more, while others may have significantly fewer miles due to infrequent use or neglect. Proper maintenance is crucial for long-term durability. Common weaknesses that emerge over time include air suspension failure, electrical gremlins, rust, and deterioration of rubber components. Regular servicing, addressing issues promptly, and garaging the car can extend its lifespan. Neglect often results in a rapid decline in reliability and increased repair costs. Many owners report that replacing wear items regularly is key to keeping the car in good working order.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 Jaguar XJ offered a range of tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features for its time. Standard features included a premium sound system with a CD player, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable seats. Higher trims like the Vanden Plas added features such as heated rear seats and rear vanity mirrors. Some models featured an optional navigation system, which was relatively basic by modern standards.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and cruise control. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, which was a rarity at the time.
Safety features consisted of front and side airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Crash-test ratings from agencies like the NHTSA and IIHS should be researched to determine the specific safety performance of this model year. Keep in mind that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2004. The integrated phone systems are antiquated and often unusable with modern cellular networks. The sound system, while premium for its time, lacks modern connectivity options like Bluetooth audio streaming. The climate control, while effective, can be prone to malfunctions as the car ages.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but included anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, and cruise control. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, which was a rarity at the time.
Safety features consisted of front and side airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Crash-test ratings from agencies like the NHTSA and IIHS should be researched to determine the specific safety performance of this model year. Keep in mind that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2004. The integrated phone systems are antiquated and often unusable with modern cellular networks. The sound system, while premium for its time, lacks modern connectivity options like Bluetooth audio streaming. The climate control, while effective, can be prone to malfunctions as the car ages.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Alpine White
Anthracite
Bay Blue
Black Cherry
Blue Velvet
British Racing Green
Carnival Red
Champagne
Ebony
Emerald Fire
Frost Blue
Gold
Graphite
Jaguar Racing Green
Midnight Black
Mistral
Pacific Blue
Radiance
Seafrost
Silver
Interior Colors
Warm Charcoal
Ivory
Cream
Oatmeal
2004 Jaguar XJ Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 Jaguar XJ ranged from approximately $58,000 to $75,000, depending on the trim and options. As expected for a luxury car of this age, it has depreciated significantly. Current used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, service records, trim level (XJR models command a premium), and location. Examples with low mileage and documented maintenance are more desirable. Rust and mechanical issues significantly decrease the value. The car's age and potential maintenance costs contribute to its high depreciation.
2004 Jaguar XJ Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2004 Jaguar XJ can be costly. Insurance premiums are moderate but can increase with the XJR trim. Fuel economy is poor, especially with the supercharged engine. Maintenance and repairs can be expensive due to the car's complexity and potential for electrical and suspension issues. Parts availability may be limited and costly. Long-term ownership requires a dedicated budget for upkeep. It is definitely not an economical car to own compared to more mainstream vehicles. Proper maintenance is crucial to mitigating high repair bills.
2004 Jaguar XJ Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2004 Jaguar XJ Safety Rating
NHTSA
2004 Jaguar XJ Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 Jaguar XJ is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Jaguar XJ Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2004 Jaguar XJ competed with luxury sedans like the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Lexus LS 430. In terms of performance, the XJR offered comparable power to its rivals' performance variants, but the base XJ8 was less powerful than some competitors. The Jaguar offered a unique blend of classic styling and luxury that differentiated it from the more modern designs of its German rivals. In terms of features, the XJ was generally well-equipped but lacked some of the cutting-edge technology offered by Mercedes-Benz.
Reliability is where the Jaguar fell short compared to the Lexus LS 430, which was known for its exceptional dependability. The BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class also had their own reliability concerns. In terms of price, the used Jaguar XJ is typically more affordable than its German rivals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to the 2004 Jaguar XJ include the Lexus LS 430 (for reliability), the BMW 7 Series (for performance and technology), and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (for overall luxury). The Acura RL (Honda Legend) is another good alternative offering greater reliability and lower running costs, but not offering the Jaguar’s level of luxury or status. Depending on individual priorities (reliability vs. styling), the Lexus or the Jaguar may be preferred.
Reliability is where the Jaguar fell short compared to the Lexus LS 430, which was known for its exceptional dependability. The BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class also had their own reliability concerns. In terms of price, the used Jaguar XJ is typically more affordable than its German rivals, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives to the 2004 Jaguar XJ include the Lexus LS 430 (for reliability), the BMW 7 Series (for performance and technology), and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (for overall luxury). The Acura RL (Honda Legend) is another good alternative offering greater reliability and lower running costs, but not offering the Jaguar’s level of luxury or status. Depending on individual priorities (reliability vs. styling), the Lexus or the Jaguar may be preferred.
Ranks #1976 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1976 | 2004 Jaguar XJ | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Jaguar XJ a Good Sedan?
The 2004 Jaguar XJ is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate classic Jaguar styling, luxurious interiors, and powerful V8 engines. It's worth buying if you're willing to accept the potential for higher maintenance costs and are prepared to perform regular upkeep. It's best to buy a well-maintained used example with documented service history. The XJR trim is desirable for its performance, but consider the increased maintenance demands. Avoid examples with rust or signs of neglect. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is crucial. It's not recommended for those seeking a trouble-free or economical daily driver. If you prioritize reliability, consider a Lexus LS 430 instead.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma