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Hi, I'm thinking of buying a 2008 Jaguar XF 4.2 which has been imported from Japan. I'm a keen cyclist so I don't drive much (around 3000km per year) but would like to have something nice and maybe a little unusual that has a good level of power. I admit, I'm kind of in love with the car but...what are the potential problems? If I get the AA mechanical insurance on this does the inspection for this double as a pre-purchase inspection or are these two completely unrelated services?

Hi there,
I'm not too familiar with the Jaguar as vehicle, but I do know that they are very much an enthusiasts vehicle choice.
As a general thought, vehicles from Japan will need the radio/ infotainment system changing to English or complete replacement of the unit with a NZ one.
You have 15 days with which the Pre-Purchase inspection can be used to buy the AA mechanical breakdown insurance policy. After that, there is a separate AA mechanical inspection than can be obtained specifically for use in the MBI policy purchase.

Thanks for that info. I'll get an inspection done followed by the MBI if the inspection comes up ok. My internet research suggests this model is fairly reliable, but, yes an enthusiasts vehicle. Also I found out that the GPS costs $999 inc GST to get changed to NZ which seems a lot. The dealer has already changed the radio. I read something about the MBI being valid only if you service it at a mechanic for that make of car. Does that mean I can't go to another competent MTA mechanic? I rang a Jaguar one for advice on costs for a normal service ... I expected it to be more than my Ford, but didn't expect quite that much.

Hi there,
The MBI policy lists a minimum set of items that need to be inspected as part of the servicing, but it doesn't specify who has to service it. See below.

It is a condition of this policy that You have the vehicle regularly and punctually serviced.
Petrol vehicles must be serviced at least every 15,000 kms or 12 months, whichever comes first, from the policy commencement date or as per the manufacturer’s specification.
Diesel vehicles must be serviced at least every 10,000 kms or 12 months, whichever comes first, from policy commencement date or as per the manufacturer’s specification.
All vehicle servicing must be carried out by a recognised service facility. As part of the service the following must be checked and attended to as required:
change engine oil and oil filter;
check all fluid levels and condition;
check air filter;
check all belts, replace if necessary. Please note cambelts must be replaced as specified by the vehicle manufacturer;
check cooling system including inhibitor and hoses;
check turbo oil feed;
check automatic transmission oil;
check Warrant of Fitness;
check CV joints and boots;
check braking system including brake fluid condition;
check steering and suspension systems.

The cost of servicing is at Your expense.

All servicing invoices will be required in the event of a claim. Please retain all invoices for future reference.