1998 TVR Cerbera 4.2L Petrol · J5 TVR
1998 TVR Cerbera (4.2L, petrol). First registered 20 Feb 1998. Recorded mileage 45,761 miles. MOT expired on 21 May 2026.
- Make & Model
- TVR CERBERA
- Year / Origin
- 1998
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 21 May 2026
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 45,761 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 4.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
J5 TVR Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 22/05/2025
- 45,761 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
J5 TVR MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Tvr Cerbera (J5 TVR) between April 2024 and May 2025.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 22 May 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
J5 TVR Mileage History
- 02/04/202445,455 mi
- 04/04/202445,463 mi+8 mi
- 22/05/202545,761 mi+298 mi
- 22/05/202545,761 mi
Average of roughly 270 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for TVR TVR Cerbera
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Common Problems: TVR CERBERA
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- AJP8 Engine Tappet Adjustment(Serious)
The Speed Eight engine requires regular, specialist tappet adjustments. If ignored, it can lead to valve damage.
- Chassis Rot (Main Rails & Outriggers)(Serious)
Like the Chimaera, the Cerbera chassis is prone to rust, but access is even more restricted, making inspection difficult.
- Electrical Gremlins & Wiring Loom(Moderate)
Hand-built wiring harnesses vary car to car, leading to inconsistent electrical reliability. Central locking, door solenoids, immobilisers, lights and cooling fans are all prone to moisture-related failures.
- Cooling System Overheating(Serious)
The cooling system is a known weak point. Faulty fan switching relays, inefficient radiator airflow and coolant leaks can cause overheating in traffic. Water pump and radiator seal failures are common even on well-maintained cars.
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TVR CERBERA Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 1998 model year cars.
- AJP8 Engine Tappet AdjustmentSerious
The Speed Eight engine requires regular, specialist tappet adjustments. If ignored, it can lead to valve damage.
- Chassis Rot (Main Rails & Outriggers)Serious
Like the Chimaera, the Cerbera chassis is prone to rust, but access is even more restricted, making inspection difficult.
- Electrical Gremlins & Wiring LoomModerate
Hand-built wiring harnesses vary car to car, leading to inconsistent electrical reliability. Central locking, door solenoids, immobilisers, lights and cooling fans are all prone to moisture-related failures.
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