IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2003–2005 MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2003–2005 MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2003–2005 period has 2 more issues than the MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

K-Series Head Gasket Failure

SeriousEngine

The standard gasket can fail due to plastic dowels and overheating.

Estimated cost: £500–£800Affects: 1999–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Oil/Coolant mixing
  • •Overheating

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Expansion tank and oil cap

SCU / BCU Relay Failure (Pektron)

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Models from 2003 onwards use a Pektron Security Control Unit. The internal relays fail, affecting windows, wipers, central locking, and alarm.

Estimated cost: £150–£300Affects: 2003–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Intermittent wipers
  • •Central locking not working
  • •Horn failure
  • •Fobs not responding

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test every electrical switch and the key fobs multiple times

Rusting Rear Arches

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Water gets trapped behind the lip of the rear wheel arches, causing rust to rot through from the inside. This is a common MOT advisory.

Estimated cost: £300–£600Affects: 1999–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling paint on the rear arch edges
  • •Visible corrosion
  • •MOT advisory on arches

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Feel the inner lip of the rear arches for crusty rust

Sunroof and Tailgate Leaks

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The sunroof drains and tailgate seals are known to leak, causing damp carpets and a musty smell in the cabin. Water can also affect electrical components.

Estimated cost: £50–£200Affects: 1999–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Wet carpets
  • •Damp smell in the cabin
  • •Water pooling in the boot

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the carpets for dampness
  • ✓Inspect the sunroof drains and tailgate seals

Buying Tips for the 2003 MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR

  • ✓Always check the oil and coolant for signs of mixing (HGF).
  • ✓Check the rear arches for rust.
  • ✓Ensure all key fobs work, as programming new ones to the SCU can be tricky.
1999–2002 MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR

Browse 2003–2005 MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR in our Directory

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View 2003–2005 Directory

Other MG Rover Rover 25 / MG ZR Year Periods

1999–20022003–2005

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