# Should I accept a free but damaged 2002 Jaguar S-Type?

**URL:** <https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-i-accept-a-free-but-damaged-2002-jaguar-s-type/80290>\
**Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\
**Tags:** jaguar, s-type\
**Created:** [July 12, 2013, 1:39am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-i-accept-a-free-but-damaged-2002-jaguar-s-type/80290 "2013-07-12T01:39:22Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 2

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**Author:** ![ardee](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/a/45deac/32.png) [@ardee](https://community.cartalk.com/u/ardee)\
**Post date:** [July 19, 2013, 2:51am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-i-accept-a-free-but-damaged-2002-jaguar-s-type/80290/21 "2013-07-19T02:51:39Z")

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One very important factor you do not mention is the mileage - I bought a 55,000 2001 V8 almost 2 years ago for $8000, and love the car. Using cruise control, i get around 16 in town and as much as 26 on the highway.  
I have had to fix a couple of issues that are known on this car up to 2003 - for example the transmission locks in park; it’s a small mechanical problem but pricey to fix. I’ve also had to replace three out of eight coils - not expensive @ around $55 and an hour’s labor but frustrating. Also had a leaky A/C when I bought the car.  
Every time I drive the car, I love it … but if you don’t much care what you/she drive, perhaps something less exotic might serve. Also, remember that any 10+ year old car will have issues - the key for me is a low mileage vehicle. It took me several months to track mine down.  
Good luck !

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**Author:** ![Docnick](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/d/ecae2f/32.png) [@Docnick](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Docnick)\
**Post date:** [July 19, 2013, 5:24pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/should-i-accept-a-free-but-damaged-2002-jaguar-s-type/80290/22 "2013-07-19T17:24:35Z")

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I would stay away from this one. The hail damage would have insurance companies call this a “write-off”. Agree with others that this is a money pit and will be a major headache, especially for those with little car knowledge. The term “white elephant”, originating in India, means an animal that won’t work and has a high upkeep. This car falls in that category.

As @Whitey suggests you could take it and immediately sell it for parts or to a DIYer as a fixer upper.

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