IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2000 TVR Griffith / Chimaera

By 2000, the Griffith and Chimaera were in their final years of production. Build quality had improved from early cars, and the 5.0 V8 Griffith 500 was well sorted. However, chassis corrosion remained the existential threat, and late cars benefit from years of incremental improvements to the cooling system and electrical components.

What changed for 2000

  • •Final production years before factory closure
  • •Improved build quality over early cars
  • •Chassis protection treatments more commonly applied
  • •Cooling system upgrades widely adopted by this point

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Chassis outrigger corrosion—essential to inspect
  • !Cooling system weaknesses if fans or radiator degrade
  • !Power steering rack leaks becoming more common with age
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Chassis Outrigger Corrosion

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The outriggers are the most vulnerable part of the chassis. Road salt and moisture get trapped between the body and frame, causing terminal rot.

Est. Repair Cost: £2,000–£4,500 (Body-off/lift repair)
Warning Signs:

MOT failure for structural corrosion, Visible rust through the wheel arches, Door alignment issues

What to Inspect:
  • Use a screwdriver to gently probe the outriggers (if accessible).
  • Check for fresh underseal which might be hiding poor repairs.
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Camshaft Wear (Rover V8)

ModerateEngine

The Rover V8 is a "lazy" engine but if oil changes are neglected, the camshaft and followers wear down, saping power.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Tapping noise from the top of the engine, Reduced performance at high RPM, Rough idle

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for rhythmic tapping when the engine is warm.
  • Check oil change intervals (should be every 3k-6k miles).
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Leaking Power Steering Rack

ModerateSteering

The steering racks are prone to leaking from the seals, often requiring a rebuild.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£700
Warning Signs:

Fluid on the garage floor, Heavy steering, Whining pump

What to Inspect:
  • Check the steering rack gaiters for fluid accumulation.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2000 TVR Griffith / Chimaera

  • ✓Late 2000–2002 cars are generally the best-built Griffiths
  • ✓Check for evidence of chassis protection treatments
  • ✓Verify the cooling fans trigger correctly at idle
1994–19992001–2003
Check a 2000 TVR Griffith / Chimaera by Registration