Generations
V8_1960-2013 — Daimler V8 (All Years)
1960–2013
4.0L V8
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Daimler V8 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Structural corrosion seriously reducing rigidity
MOT data shows this model fails at 14.7 times the national fleet average for vehicle structure corrosion that seriously reduces rigidity. This typically affects the subframe mounting points and structural components within 30cm of suspension attachment points. The issue is worsening in the test population, indicating progressive deterioration across the fleet. Given the age of most examples, structural steel has been exposed to decades of road salt and moisture.
What happens if ignoredStructural corrosion that reduces rigidity creates a direct safety risk as it compromises the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in a collision and affects handling predictability. Professional welding repair by a bodywork specialist typically costs £1,000-£3,000 depending on the extent of corrosion. The car should not be driven if structural integrity is compromised.
Independent garage
£1,000–£2,000
Specialist
£1,500–£3,000
Main dealer
£2,000–£4,000
Parts only
£200–£500
Dangerous
Excessive wheel bearing play
MOT data shows this model fails at 14.5 times the fleet average for wheel bearing excessive play, with 105 failures recorded across the mileage bands where the problem peaks. This affects both 60-80k and 80-100k mile ranges and appears consistently across all test years. Wheel bearing failure on older luxury cars is often accelerated by infrequent use and exposure to moisture over decades.
What happens if ignoredA wheel bearing with excessive play can collapse without warning, causing complete loss of wheel control and potential separation of the wheel from the vehicle. This creates an immediate safety risk to the driver and other road users. Bearing replacement typically costs £150-£400 per corner depending on the specific axle design.
Independent garage
£150–£300
Specialist
£200–£400
Main dealer
£300–£600
Parts only
£80–£200
Dangerous
Subframe mounting point corrosion
This is a worsening trend indicating progressive deterioration across the surviving fleet. The prescribed area around mounting points is critical for vehicle structural integrity and must meet specific strength requirements for MOT pass.
What happens if ignoredCompromised subframe mounting points can allow suspension components to separate from the vehicle structure, causing immediate loss of control. Professional structural welding repair typically costs £800-£2,500 depending on the extent of work required. The vehicle is unsafe to drive with compromised mounting point integrity.
Independent garage
£800–£1,800
Specialist
£1,200–£2,500
Main dealer
£1,800–£3,500
Parts only
£150–£400
Dangerous
Flexible brake hose deterioration
MOT data shows this model fails at 8.8 times the fleet average for flexible brake hoses that are excessively damaged, deteriorated, chafed, twisted or stretched. Given the age of most examples, original rubber brake hoses have exceeded their design life and are subject to cracking, bulging, and internal deterioration that can cause brake failure.
What happens if ignoredDeteriorated flexible brake hoses can fail catastrophically, causing complete loss of braking on the affected circuit. This creates an immediate safety risk. Brake hose replacement typically costs £80-£150 per hose including labour. The vehicle should not be driven with compromised brake hoses.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£400–£700
Parts only
£80–£160
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Daimler V8 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 30x the fleet average
Sample: 127 tests
Body, cab or chassis corroded at a mounting point
Bodywork · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 165 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 23x the fleet average
Sample: 165 tests
Structural corrosion
Bodywork · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 185 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 8.8x the fleet average
Sample: 255 tests
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 6.8x the fleet average
Sample: 116 tests
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Related
Daimler V8 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Daimler V8?
The Daimler V8 has 5 known issues across 1 severity levels. The most serious are: Structural corrosion seriously reducing rigidity, Excessive wheel bearing play, Subframe mounting point corrosion.
Is the Daimler V8 reliable?
The Daimler V8 has 5 dangerous and 0 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Daimler V8 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Structural corrosion seriously reducing rigidity) costs £1,000–£2,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.