IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2004 MG Rover Rover 75 / MG ZT

The 2004 facelift brought a significant cosmetic refresh to both the Rover 75 and MG ZT. The front end received new headlights, grille and bumper, while the interior gained revised trim options including a new "Contemporary" specification with black oak wood and sports seats. Steering received revised ratios from the MG ZT, and suspension was reworked for improved handling. The 4.6-litre V8-powered ZT 260 and Rover 75 V8 were also introduced.

What changed for 2004

  • •Major front-end facelift with new headlights and grille
  • •New Contemporary trim level with black oak wood
  • •Revised steering ratios and suspension tuning
  • •Rover 75 V8 and MG ZT 260 V8 introduced
  • •Project Drive cost-cutting measures continued

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Check for evidence of Project Drive cost-cutting (reduced sound deadening, plastic trim)
  • !Plenum drain issue remains critical
  • !Front coil spring breakage is common
5
Known Issues
2
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

ECU Flooding

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Water enters the engine ECU due to blocked plenum drains.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Warning Signs:

No-start condition, Engine cutting out, Multiple dash warnings

What to Inspect:
  • Drain holes in the plenum chamber
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Clutch Slave Cylinder

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Concentric slave cylinder inside the gearbox can leak, requiring gearbox removal.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£900
Warning Signs:

Loss of clutch pressure, Leaking fluid from bellhousing

Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

KV6 VIS Motor Failure

ModerateEngine

The Variable Intake System motors on the 2.0 and 2.5 V6 engines fail, causing loss of power and a rattling manifold.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£400
Warning Signs:

Lack of power at high revs, Rattling "bag of marbles" sound, Poor fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for rattling from the plastic intake manifold
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front Coil Spring Breakage

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The front coil springs are prone to snapping due to corrosion, particularly on UK roads. This is a common MOT failure.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£250
Warning Signs:

Clunking from the front end, Car sitting lower on one side, MOT failure on broken spring

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the front springs for corrosion and cracks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Diesel Fuel Pump and MAF Failure

ModerateEngine

On the 2.0 CDTi diesel, the in-tank fuel pump and mass air flow sensor are known failure points, causing poor running and loss of power.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Warning Signs:

Loss of power, Poor fuel economy, Engine management light

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive for smooth power delivery
  • Check for stored fault codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2004 MG Rover Rover 75 / MG ZT

  • The 2004+ facelift is generally more refined and better equipped
  • V8 models are appreciating; check for evidence of careful ownership
  • The CDTi diesel remains the sensible choice for high-mileage use