Shipping a Jaguar to STX - Bad idea?
I shipped a 2003 Jeep Liberty to STX using Tropical about a month ago. I used Tropical and paid about $1,600 for shipping and another $2,000 in tax/ fees. Overall, it went smoothly in a large part because of the advice posted on this board.
Now I need to get a second vehicle. In order to buy a late model/ low mileage car on the island, it’s going to cost around $15,000 or so. Therefore, I’m considering shipping a 2004 Jaguar X-Type. It’s been a reliable car and there is no lien. By shipping it to the island, it would allow me to conserve a lot of cash. The downside is that there is no Jag dealer on the island. So it’s a decision that I could well regret down the line.
I’m wondering about the following:
- Does anyone know a mechanic that could work on a Jag?
- If the car does need major repair, how feasible and costly would it be to ship to Puerto Rico?
- Can anyone guess what a NEW Camry would cost if I bought at the Toyota dealer on the island? (wifie is willing to give up Jag for a new Camry)
Thanks in advance for your comments/ suggestions/ advice.
I know there are jaguars over there as my cousin had one. There must be mechanics. Actually you will be surprised at some of the mechanics you find. Just have to asjk around. I will ask to see where they serviced theirs.
a jaguar huh? IMHO, I think you are asking for trouble and I think it would get stolen and stripped and then they like to burn them up in the rain forest. I think that is why most people have "island cars"... lot less trouble...
Charlotte, it's an X-Type and not really an expensive car. The book value is maybe $12K. I would hope that car thieves have higher standards. Personally, I'd settle for an island car but the wife wants something newer/ more reliable.
The main issue is road clearance. We have an old Triumph sitting in our yard. Bringing it seems like the right move...paid for, old, convertible...WRONG. It has about 3" (well, maybe I'm exagerating a little) clearance and bottoms out frequently.
I would call Mike at MPH auto in Five Corners, to see if he works on Jags. He was from Scottsdale, AZ, so I would bet he has experience with them. Depending on where you live or would drive the car on island, you might not have too much problem with ground clearance. I think that the Jag sedan has more clearance that Ric and Linda's car.
Hey Terry, Ric's Triumph would be a WONDERFUL project for you after you make the big move. Of course, it is a classic, so we'd need top $$$. lol
I think the best idea, I'll restore it for you. You guys have the big $$$ jobs. :@)
You restore it and then WHAT? No better you buy it.
Thanks for the replies. I've decided to ship it. So if you see a tan 2004 Jag X-Type broken down on the side of the road, it's mine...
Quit trying to get rid of my car!
:@)
I thought you said you were bringing it down because it was newer and more reliable -
To ship or not to ship. That's a loded question. Jaguars on stx aren't common so you may get a lot of second looks from curious natives. Generally, hew vehicles on stx are priced competively considering the shipping charges and excise taxis. Used vehicles are sold down here at a premium. I have no idea why?
My cousin's husband says that Caribbean Auto Mart serviced theirs and did minor repairs. They do not have the diagnostic equipment though. His was the same year I believe. I would purchase a factory repair manual if such a thing is available these days.
Don't know how many are only STX, but we have our fair share of them over here on STT and Buddy, I don't think the 'curious natives' take a second look. I get second and third looks from everybody when I take out my '52 MG TD!
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