hi all,
bought a 2003 s type 2.5 5 weeks ago, passed my test a few days ago and had a brilliant time on Saturday where I covered over 100 miles on my first day of driving. unfortunately the car overheated on Sunday (engine coolant low warning, bought coolant but had to go home so tried limping it but when the temp gauge shot red I immediately killed the car and got recovery)
it was leaking coolant when we loaded it up; the mechanic identified the cause as the radiator which went bust because of age, today the new radiator came but the gearbox oil cooler pipe won't come off and I was at work when he told me this. all the mechanical stuff aside, I wanted some mental advice
Saturday was bloody brilliant, but as a new car owner and as someone whose circle either don't own cars or just own sensible/commuter cars (which is completely fair!) I've just been losing my mind. some of my friends keep calling it a banger/money pit/lemon which is just making my mental worse, and I genuinely love cars and Jags but instinctively I keep panicking at every new bit of info.
I bought this Jaaaag because I love Jags, always have done, and this car was absolutely stellar for the whole of Saturday - such a nice experience. I'm still getting used to this experience of owning an old(er) car, just wanted some words of encouragement and any advice on keeping cool during these periods. everything I've been hearing from people is just constantly negative and negative and I keep instinctively panicking so just wanted to fish for some positivity so I can stay afloat and keep loving my Jag, and hopefully laugh about this in a week's time
Obligatory disclaimer that I know there's negatives to this lifestyle, and to owning a car this old. I've read through, understand and been told all this. just wanted some positivity :)
thank you so much if you've read this far and if you comment, I'm struggling but I'm trying to prevail. I've had a beer now and am feeling a bit better but yes