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Few cars capture the spirit of classic motoring like the 1967 Jaguar XKE. Van Wells brought us this beautiful silver Series I 4.2‑liter coupe with a handful of age‑related issues — the kind that show up after decades of driving, storage, and careful preservation. Our job was to bring the car back to its best mechanical behavior while respecting its originality.

Steering Column Repair

The XKE arrived with a stuck steering column, a common issue on older British cars where internal bushings and adjustment mechanisms can seize over time. After diagnosing the problem, our technician freed and adjusted the column under diagnostic time, restoring smooth operation and proper driving position.

Adjust Steering Column – repaired under diagnostic time.

Ignition Tune & Carburetor Adjustment

Classic Jaguars rely heavily on precise ignition and carburetor setup. We performed a full tune‑up: setting distributor points and timing, adjusting the twin carburetors, dialing in fuel mixture, and setting idle speed. Spark plugs were cleaned and gapped, and a fresh ignition tune‑up kit was installed.

Set points and timing… Adjust carburetor, fuel mixture, and idle speed.

The result is a smoother idle, cleaner throttle response, and stronger performance — exactly what a 4.2‑liter XK engine should deliver.

Transmission / Driveline Rattle

The customer reported a driveline rattle during deceleration. After inspection, we traced the issue to a worn gearbox mounting bushing. We replaced the bushing, installed a new mount spring seat, and secured the assembly. This eliminated the vibration and restored proper driveline stability.

Remove and replace gearbox mounting bushing… bushing C12265, mount spring seat CBC2517.

Oil Leak Diagnosis

Older Jaguars are notorious for small oil leaks. We inspected the vehicle thoroughly and diagnosed the source under diagnostic time, ensuring the customer had clarity on the condition and next steps.

Wind Noise & Window Adjustment

The XKE’s top seal and window alignment were checked per the customer’s concerns. These adjustments help reduce wind intrusion at highway speeds — a common refinement task on vintage coupes.

Finishing Touch

Every classic deserves to leave looking its best. We finished the service with a complimentary car wash.

2004 Jaguar XJ8

Diagnostic Report: Engine Extended Crank and Traction Control System

Overview

This report details the diagnostic process and findings related to an extended crank condition and issues with the traction control system.

Initial Findings

The vehicle was brought in with complaints of an intermittent extended crank and faults related to the traction control system. During the initial inspection, it was observed that the extended crank occurred sporadically, and multiple faults were present within the vehicle. Communication loss within the network was detected, prompting a recommendation for additional electrical diagnostic time.

Diagnostic Procedures

Further investigation into the extended crank condition revealed that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) did not provide proper control signals to the ignition coils or fuel injectors. In-depth testing indicated a weak ground signal originating from the PCM, which contributed to the extended crank issue.

Several sensor signals were examined, and a verified working PCM was used to compare results.  Despite the replacement, the extended crank issue persisted, confirming that the PCM itself was not the root cause of the problem.

The diagnosis ultimately determined that the computer was receiving an insufficient or poor ground. This resulted in a loss of ignition and injector command during cranking. To confirm the ground supply issue, a temporary paired-wire ground was installed to secure the PCM chassis ground directly to the battery supply.

Corrective Actions

All engine-bay grounds were cleaned, inspected, and repaired as needed. Additionally, a ground harness was routed from the PCM ground point to all major engine-bay ground locations and to the engine, ensuring proper continuity and system reliability.

2012 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet

Thermostat Fault and Repair

This car arrived with the engine light on. Fault codes showed a low temperature due to a thermostat that was stuck open. We replaced the thermostat, topped off coolant, and performed a pressure test.

1991 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL- Service summary

Our team performed an extensive diagnostics, service and repair on the 1991 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL that arrived with a no-start condition. After a full evaluation of the starting and charging system, the battery was successfully serviced and retested to proper specifications. From there, we completed comprehensive maintenance, service including an oil change, full vehicle inspection, and road test.

During inspection, several age-related issues were identified and addressed to ensure long-term reliability. This included replacement of worn wiper blades, a failed tail lamp bulb, the engine air filter, rear brake components, and all front and rear brake hoses. We also performed multiple fluid services—power steering flush, coolant flush, brake system flush, and a full transmission service—to restore proper system performance.

To improve drivability and reduce vibration, new engine mounts and a transmission mount were installed. Additional repairs included replacing broken exhaust hangers, installing new spark plugs, and resealing the leaking steering gear. A new tie-rod assembly was also fitted to restore steering precision.

Further diagnostics were performed on a noisy starter and delayed transmission shifting. Adjustments were made, and additional repairs were recommended for future consideration.

The vehicle was returned to the customer with all completed repairs, topped-off fluids, and a complimentary wash. All qualifying repairs include our 2-year/24,000-mile warranty.

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1971 Mercury Marquis

“After an overheating incident and electrical issues on the road, our team completed a full inspection and identified multiple concerns — including a failed radiator, thermostat, and headlight switch, along with worn suspension components and leaks throughout the drivetrain. We performed comprehensive diagnostic work, cooling system repairs, electrical repairs, brake adjustments, service maintenance, and installation of a Borla exhaust system to get this vehicle safely back on the road.”

Left to Right:
• 2011 BMW 535i: In for transmission service and battery replacement and registering the new battery.
• 2026 BMW X6: Presented for noise diagnosis; issue was identified and resolved during diagnostic time.
• 2019 Maserati Ghibli: In for routine service and brake inspection.
• 2019 Jaguar F-Type: In for scheduled maintenance.
• 2016 Jaguar F-Type: Serviced for multiple items including draining and refilling both front and rear differentials with 80-90 weight oil, performing a transmission drain, cleaning the transmission pan, replacing the transmission filter, replenishing fluids, replacing both the drive belt and supercharger belt, installing and registering a new battery, and replacing the spark plugs.
• 2014 Mini Countryman: Addressed coolant leak by replacing the coolant pipe and thermostat; additional services included required maintenance, battery replacement, and registering the new battery.

While we specialize in vintage automobiles, the majority of our projects involve modern vehicles such as this 2017 Mercedes-Benz C300 and 2011 Mini Cooper.

Three impressive cars await their owners: from left to right, a 2012 Maserati GT Convertible, a 2016 Bentley Continental GT, and a 2020 Aston Martin DB11.

Check Engine Light Diagnosis and Repair
The 2019 Aston Martin Vantage was presented with a check engine light concern. Diagnostic evaluation revealed that the leak detection pump had failed, resulting in an Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) fault being recorded by the vehicle’s computer system. To restore proper function and resolve the fault, the leak detection pump was replaced. This repair successfully eliminated the check engine light and ensured that the vehicle’s emission system was operating correctly.

Oil Leak Diagnosis and Repair
The 2006 Lamborghini Gallardo was brought in due to an oil leak originating from its V10 engine. A thorough inspection revealed that the oil filter housing cover had been incorrectly installed by a previous service provider. To address this issue, the cover was reinstalled correctly, which effectively resolved the oil leak.
Hood Latch and Window Functionality
The vehicle also exhibited operational problems with the driver’s window and the rear window. Investigation found that a malfunctioning hood latch was the root cause of these concerns. Adjusting the hood latch restored proper function to both windows.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to these repairs, routine maintenance was performed to ensure the vehicle’s ongoing reliability and performance.