Models · Jaguar
Jaguar XFR / XFR-S X250 buying guide
The supercharged 5.0 V8 version of the first XF, built from 2009 to 2015, with the more powerful XFR-S arriving in 2013.
The versions
- XFR (2009 to 2015): 5.0 supercharged V8 with an Eaton Twin Vortex supercharger, 503bhp, six-speed automatic
- XFR-S (2013 on): 542bhp, eight-speed automatic
- Electronic limited-slip differential; optional Speed Pack raised the limiter to 174mph
- Saloon, plus the XFR-S Sportbrake estate (2014 to 2015)
What to check on a XFR
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Timing chain rattle from cold
What to look for: Start the engine from fully cold and listen at the front of the engine for a rattle in the first seconds. Ask whether a restricted performance warning has ever shown, and look in the history for timing chain work.
Why it matters: The V8's timing chain can jump because some of the materials wear excessively. A rattle on a cold start or a restricted performance warning are the signs, and a car with the timing chain work documented has had the main job on this engine taken care of.
Water pump and coolant pipes
What to look for: With the engine cold, look around the water pump at the front of the engine for coolant crust or wet streaks, check the expansion tank level, and ask about any low coolant warnings.
Why it matters: The water pump can fail from about 20,000 miles, as coolant corrodes its bearing, and a failure can damage other parts. Many of the coolant hoses and pipes are plastic and can crack, so specialists often replace them as a set when one goes.
Fuel smell at the rear
What to look for: Look under the back of the car around the fuel tank for wetness or staining, and notice any fuel smell. Ask a Jaguar dealer to check outstanding recalls against the VIN.
Why it matters: The tank outlet pipe can leak, mainly on 2010 and 2011 cars, made worse by rust on its connecting edge. Some cars were recalled for it, so most affected cars should have been put right by now.
Also in the full guide
- Rear suspension clunks
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the XFR
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Jaguar.