Hi All,

 

I've recently purchased a 2004 X-Type 3.0 Automatic with just over 80,000 miles on it. It drove great for the first few days of ownership, then shortly after I started noticing some things that are (at least to me) somewhat worrisome. I'll try to be as detailed as possible but please let me know if I can expand on anything.

 

1. There's a noticeable whining noise when accelerating. I'm not sure how best to describe it, but it is fairly loud and follows gear changes. Also levels off or disappears when maintaining speed. 

 

2. There's a slight metallic ratchet or crunch noise from the front left of the car when changing gears or braking. I hear it each time the car shifts, or a few times in succession when braking and almost at a stop. 

 

3. When cruising under 55ish mph (88ish kph) the car will start to 'lug', meaning that the rpms will drop to about 1250 and a noticeable constant vibration is felt. Pushing the gas will accelerate the car, however it feels dead and the rpms do not appear to increase. 'Gunning' the car will produce the expected result however. Concurrent with this issue is that I perceive a loss of power in the car lately. This seems intermittent, but most of the time (unless I floor it) taking off from a dead stop feels laborious and slow.

 

I've had it at a local, and fairly reputable, dealer for the last couple days. They claim that they are 'unable to reproduce' the issues I'm experiencing so I think I will be taking it to a local shop that specializes in imports. Any and all input is incredibly appreciated and I will happily expand on anything as much as I am able. Thanks!

 

Justin

HI Justin,

 

I am not an expert on the issues you have with your X type, but there are others who are.

 

The automatic gearbox oil is supposed to last for the life of the car, but some owners are a bit more cynical and have suggested that a change of oil around 75k miles is beneficial. 

 

The dropping of revs seems to be something to do with ignition and a plug change could be indicated.  Having said that, there are those more expert than myself who may have some similar experiences to yourself.

 

Regards,

 

Peter.