MG, the iconic British car brand, has seen a resurgence in recent years. Their vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and affordability. However, like any car manufacturer, MG isn’t without its fair share of reported problems. If you’re considering buying an MG, it’s wise to be aware of these potential issues. Here’s a look at some of the most common problems reported by MG owners:
Engine Issues
Some MG models, particularly the MG ZS, have been reported as experiencing engine troubles. According to Meidum, these can manifest as overheating and quickly draining coolant, and are often traced to the head gasket. They state that “head gasket failures have been a recurring issue in several MG car models,” with the K-series MG cars having “poorly designed gaskets that couldn’t withstand the heat generated by the engine.” (https://medium.com/@beverlyallender658/the-most-common-problems-with-mg-cars-and-how-to-tackle-them-56e937713bc6) If there have been any signs of head gasket failure, it’s important to get this checked promptly.
Transmission Problems:
Gearbox and transmission issues have been reported in various MG models by a number of drivers, with Medium reporting that the issue is “prevalent in both the manual and automatic versions of the MG3 model”. The manual model tends to “get stuck” which can make it difficult to shift, while the automatic can experience “slow gear changes” (https://medium.com/@beverlyallender658/the-most-common-problems-with-mg-cars-and-how-to-tackle-them-56e937713bc6). The issue seems to come from the clutch system, synchroniser ring or hub sleeve, but this can differ from model to model and should always be checked by a qualified technician.
Oil Leaks:
Oil leaks are another potential concern with some MG vehicles. These leaks can originate from various sources, including gasket covers, pressure hoses, filters, or drain plugs. According to BreakerYard, owners have reported “oil leaking from the four corners of the engine.” (https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/mg/zs/common-problems) Regular maintenance checks can help identify and address leaks early on, but others have also said that having the cover re-torqued can resolve the problem.
Premature Rusting:
Although uncommon, some owners, particularly of the MG Hector and MG ZS, have reported premature rusting issues. Medium has also stated that “owners living in wet coastal areas have reported rust spots appearing on their vehicles” despite the Zintec-steel coating the cars are equipped with (https://medium.com/@beverlyallender658/the-most-common-problems-with-mg-cars-and-how-to-tackle-them-56e937713bc6). If you live in an area with poor weather conditions, you may need to take additional care when it comes to maintaining your vehicle, keeping it clean and preventing rusting. Anti-corrosion products, for example, can help. Similarly, quickly repairing any signs of rust before they can spread can reduce potential damage.
By being aware of these common problems and taking preventative measures, you can increase your chances of having a positive ownership experience with your MG vehicle. Our team are on hand to help if you have any questions or potential concerns with your MG vehicle, offering maintenance and repairs to ensure you can remain on the road safely and with confidence. Simply get in touch, today.