IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2003–2004 Daimler Super V8

We've identified 1 known issue that can affect the 2003–2004 Daimler Super V8. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

1
Known Issues
0
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear Lower Wishbone and Hub Carrier Bush Wear Causing Wandering and MOT Failure

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Both the X308 and X350 generations of the Daimler Super V8 utilise an independent rear suspension layout featuring multi-link arms, aluminium wishbones, and rubber-metal bushes. The immense torque (up to 400 lb-ft) of the supercharged powertrain combined with UK potholes and speed bumps places enormous stress on the lower wishbone bushes and hub carrier ball joints. The rubber perishes and develops excessive play, allowing the rear wheels to steer passively under acceleration and braking. In addition to creating an unsettling floaty sensation on motorways, worn bushes result in MOT failure and rapid inner tyre shoulder scrubbing.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£900
Warning Signs:

Unsettling wandering or twitching sensation from the rear axle when braking or accelerating, Dull metallic clunking or knocking noise from the rear floor when traversing uneven road surfaces, Uneven scrubbing and premature wear across the inner shoulders of the rear tyres, Advisory or failure note on annual UK MOT test for excessive suspension joint play

What to Inspect:
  • Pry the rear lower wishbone inner bushes and hub carrier ball joints with a pry bar to check for movement
  • Inspect rear tyre tread depths and look for severe feathering or inner shoulder canvas exposure
  • Conduct a test drive over road joints to evaluate whether the rear track stays disciplined and true
  • Check whether complete replacement wishbones or aftermarket polyurethane bushes have been fitted
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2003–2004 Daimler Super V8

  • On 1997 to 2002 4.0-litre X308 cars, verify that the fragile plastic secondary timing chain tensioners have been replaced with metal-bodied third-generation units.
  • Check for cold-start compression loss on early pre-2000 4.0 engines, which used sulphur-sensitive Nikasil cylinder bore coatings that suffered bore washing.
  • Test the air suspension system on 2005 to 2009 X350/X358 models; listen for an overworking compressor pump and ensure the vehicle sits level without overnight sagging.
  • Inspect rear lower wishbone bushes and hub carrier ball joints for play; worn bushes ruin the serene ride quality and cause dynamic rear-wheel steering.
2001–20022005
Check a 2003–2004 Daimler Super V8 by Registration