IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
1999–2005 MG Rover Rover 45 / MG ZS

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 1999–2005 MG Rover Rover 45 / MG ZS. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

K-Series Head Gasket Failure (1.4/1.6/1.8)

SeriousEngine

The K-Series petrol engines are prone to head gasket failure due to plastic dowels and low coolant capacity. The 2.0 V6 also uses K-Series architecture and shares similar cooling weaknesses.

Estimated cost: £500–£800Affects: 1999–2005Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Overheating
  • •Oil/coolant mixing
  • •Loss of heater performance

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the oil filler cap and expansion tank for contamination

VIS Motor Failure (V6)

ModerateEngine

Variable intake motors fail, leading to reduced performance.

Estimated cost: £150–£300Affects: 1999–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Flat spots in acceleration
  • •Rattling manifold

Water Ingress (Bulkhead Seam Failure)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The seam sealer on the bulkhead can crack with age, allowing water into the front passenger footwell. This can affect electrical components under the carpet.

Estimated cost: £100–£300Affects: 1999–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Wet front passenger carpet
  • •Damp smell in cabin
  • •Electrical faults from water-damaged wiring

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Lift the front passenger carpet and inspect the bulkhead seams
  • ✓Check for water staining under the carpet

Sagging Headlining

MinorInterior & Trim

The glue holding the headlining fabric to the roof board fails, causing the fabric to hang down and obstruct the driver's view.

Estimated cost: £100–£250Affects: 1999–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Roof fabric hanging down
  • •Obstructed rear view

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Look at the ceiling for signs of sagging or temporary fixes like pins

Buying Tips for the 1999 MG Rover Rover 45 / MG ZS

  • ✓Check for VIS motor failure on the ZS 180 and Rover 45 V6.
  • ✓Inspect the rear suspension trailing arm bushes.
  • ✓Check the interior door handles.

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Other MG Rover Rover 45 / MG ZS Year Periods

1999–2005

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