At a Glance
The Panther Lima has 0 identified common problems across 2 generations (1976–1982) and brakes the most common problem category. Based on 726 MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Panther Lima common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Panther Lima generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Panther Lima owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Panther Lima owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Looking for a garage to repair your Panther Lima?
Search our directory of 12,000+ UK garages by service and postcode — every garage has verified Google reviews.
Browse Panther Lima Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
Most Common Panther Lima MOT Failures
Every reason Panther Lima vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake performance below minimum | 13.02% |
| 2 | Headlamp aim defect | 7.76% |
| 3 | Windscreen washer not working | 7.34% |
| 4 | Indicator fault | 6.79% |
| 5 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 6.65% |
| 6 | Exhaust system fault | 4.71% |
| 7 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 4.02% |
| 8 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 2.91% |
| 9 | Suspension mounting corroded | 2.91% |
| 10 | Stop lamp not working | 2.77% |
| 11 | Front lamp not working | 2.49% |
| 12 | Parking brake condition | 2.35% |
| 13 | Rear lamp not working | 2.35% |
| 14 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 2.35% |
| 15 | Horn not working | 1.80% |
| 16 | Number plate lamp not working | 1.80% |
| 17 | Brake pedal fault | 1.66% |
| 18 | Front suspension fault | 1.66% |
| 19 | Tyre condition | 1.66% |
| 20 | Chassis condition | 1.52% |
| 21 | Steering rack fault | 1.52% |
| 22 | Fog lamp not working | 1.39% |
| 23 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 1.25% |
| 24 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 1.11% |
| 25 | Track rod end worn | 1.11% |
| 26 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.97% |
| 27 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.97% |
| 28 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.83% |
| 29 | Electrical switch fault | 0.83% |
| 30 | Headlamp fault | 0.83% |
| 31 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 0.83% |
| 32 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.69% |
| 33 | Position lamp not working | 0.69% |
| 34 | Seat belt condition | 0.69% |
| 35 | Steering coupling worn | 0.69% |
| 36 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.55% |
| 37 | Brake fluid leak | 0.42% |
| 38 | Brake pads or linings worn | 0.42% |
| 39 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.42% |
| 40 | Steering operation fault | 0.42% |
| 41 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.42% |
| 42 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.42% |
| 43 | Body strengthening plate corroded | 0.28% |
| 44 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.28% |
| 45 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.28% |
| 46 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.28% |
| 47 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.28% |
| 48 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.28% |
| 49 | Steering arm worn | 0.28% |
| 50 | Steering column fault | 0.28% |
| 51 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.28% |
| 52 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.14% |
| 53 | Brake air or vacuum system fault | 0.14% |
| 54 | Brake master cylinder fault | 0.14% |
| 55 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.14% |
| 56 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.14% |
| 57 | Front passenger door fault | 0.14% |
| 58 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.14% |
| 59 | Steering free play excessive | 0.14% |
| 60 | Stub axle worn | 0.14% |
| 61 | Trailing arm worn or corroded | 0.14% |
| 62 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.14% |
Showing all 62 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Panther Lima MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Panther Lima, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
Join as a car owner — free
Get MOT reminders, a pre-MOT checklist, and tools to compare garages near you.
MOT Reminders
Free email alerts 28 and 7 days before your MOT expires.
44-Point MOT Checklist
Printable checklist to inspect your car before the test.
Save Favourite Garages
Save garages you trust and compare their ratings side by side.
Already a member? Sign in
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Panther Lima problems?
Based on analysis of 726 Panther Lima MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 2 generations. Brakes is the most common problem category.
Which Panther Lima generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Panther Lima yet — either this is a well-engineered model across all its generations, or the sample size per generation is still small. Check individual generation pages for MOT failure and advisory breakdowns.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Panther Lima?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Panther Lima owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
Search Vehicles With Common Problems
Find common car problems, MOT failures, and advisories for any make and model
