1996 TVR Cerbera 4.2L Petrol · P557 PJA
1996 TVR Cerbera (4.2L, petrol). First registered 09 Aug 1996. Recorded mileage 30,960 miles. MOT expired on 31 Jul 2024.
- Make & Model
- TVR CERBERA
- Year / Origin
- 1996 · Preston
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 31 Jul 2024
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 30,960 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.
P557 PJA Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 02/08/2023
- 30,960 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
P557 PJA MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1996 Tvr Cerbera (P557 PJA) between April 2022 and August 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 02 August 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue), Windscreen (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 3 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
P557 PJA Mileage History
- 29/04/202230,949 mi
- 02/08/202330,960 mi+11 mi
- 02/08/202330,960 mi
Average of roughly 9 miles per year across 3 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 1996 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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