1998 TVR Chimaera: common problems and what to check
What gets flagged at MOT on 1998 TVR Chimaeras, from 568 tests in 2025, plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
What gets flagged at MOT
The share of 1998 TVR Chimaera MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Oil and fluid leaks13% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
- Suspension9% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Brakes8% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Lights and electrics8% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors5% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Tyres4% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
Looking at a TVR Chimaera?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 172 | Oil and fluid leaks 9% |
| 1999 | 428 | Oil and fluid leaks 12% |
| 1997 | 389 | Oil and fluid leaks 13% |
| 1996 | 299 | Oil and fluid leaks 15% |
| 1995 | 243 | Oil and fluid leaks 19% |
| 1994 | 155 | Oil and fluid leaks 20% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test in Great Britain in 2025, counting tests of 1998 TVR Chimaeras registered in 1998. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score