Used Jaguar F-Type Convertible 2013-present reliability

The roof mechanism is so far proving to be reliable, but we’d still want to put it up and down a few times to be sure.

Jaguar offers a range of ways to customise the F-Type, so it’s worth having a good look through the classifieds to see what takes your fancy. Obviously, you’ll want to check the bodywork and wheels for damage, but don’t be too alarmed if the bonnet doesn’t line up correctly – it can fall out of alignment if not closed correctly.

As the Jaguar F-Type is still a relatively new car, you should insist on evidence of main dealer servicing, not least because it will guarantee any remaining warranty is valid.

There have been a few recalls. They were mainly to do with ensuring bolts had been correctly tightened, but one applied to cars built between February and December 2016 that might have faulty seatbelt pre-tensioners. A Jaguar dealer will be able to tell you if the car you’re interested in has had all the necessary work done.

Rattles and squeaks aren’t unheard of, so listen out for them on a test drive because they’re not always easy to fix.

On the mechanical side, the F-Type’s rear differential can in some cases leak oil as a result of faulty seals. It’s important that the workshop carrying out repairs doesn’t over-tighten the coupling because this can cause major problems. You’ll know if that's happened because there will be expensive-sounding noises from the back of the car.

Other common faults include exhaust flaps that stick open (making the car permanently noisy), a centre air vent that is reluctant to rise, and pop-out door handles that refuse to, er, pop out.

Early F-Types can also suffer from poor window seals that allow stones to get inside the window mechanism and scratch the glass. Jaguar has generally been replacing both the seals and any damaged windows free of charge.

Jaguar didn’t do all that well in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, finishing 21st out of 30 manufacturers featured. The F-Type didn’t appear in our coupé, convertible and sports car class.