1996 TVR Cerbera 4.5L Petrol · P287 AYJ

Steering system irregularities and drivetrain component wear represent the primary mechanical concerns for this vehicle, following a failed test in May 2024 and a subsequent pass in June 2024. The most recent inspection highlights a recurring issue with the steering rack inner joints, which were flagged as having play, alongside an advisory regarding stiff power steering operation. This follows a major failure earlier that same year due to a split offside rear inner drive shaft constant velocity boot, indicating that the drivetrain components are currently subject to wear that requires close monitoring. The recorded mileage of 80,736 miles reflects a low annual usage pattern of approximately 2,691 miles per year over the vehicle's thirty-year lifespan. While this low accumulation suggests less frequent wear on high-friction consumables, the two-year gap between the 2022 and 2024 inspections may indicate periods where the vehicle remained stationary. For a vehicle with this usage profile, mechanical risks often shift from high-mileage wear to the degradation of rubber components and seals due to age and inactivity, which is consistent with the recorded failures of the CV boot and the steering rack advisories. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the steering and front-end geometry during a test drive. Given the advisories for play in the steering rack inner joints and stiff power steering, you should listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when turning the wheel at low speeds or navigating uneven surfaces. Pay close attention to the weight and consistency of the steering input; any sudden resistance, notched feeling, or lack of smoothness in the power steering assistance could indicate underlying issues with the rack or the hydraulic system. Additionally, the history of a split CV boot necessitates a physical inspection of the offside rear drive shaft area to ensure the replacement component is secure and that no grease leakage has contaminated surrounding components. You should also verify the functionality of all exterior lighting and the windscreen washer system, as these were previous points of failure. During the drive, any vibrations through the chassis or drivetrain at specific speeds could indicate that the drive shaft joint issues have progressed beyond the initial boot failure.