IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2023 MG HS

A May 2023 facelift sharpened the HS with a larger grille, revised bumpers and updated infotainment, priced from £23,495. The plug-in hybrid stayed on with its 16.6kWh pack and 32-mile electric claim.

What changed for 2023

  • •Revised front end with a larger grille and new bumper mouldings
  • •Updated infotainment software and more standard equipment on SE and Trophy trims
  • •PHEV kept the 16.6kWh battery, 10-speed EDU II transmission and 32-mile EV range

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !PHEV brake discs corroded front and rear because the motor handles most braking
  • !Front anti-roll bar drop-link knock that ends up as an MOT advisory
  • !Headlamp levelling faults after front bumper removal for paintwork
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

PHEV Carpet Underlay Recall (Fire Risk)

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

Over 5,100 HS PHEV and HS +EV models were recalled because the carpet underlay could be positioned between the nut and the electrical ground stud. If the nut loosens, the wiring may overheat and pose a fire risk.

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (Recall)
Warning Signs:

Burning smell from under the carpet, Warning light on dashboard, Possible electrical malfunction

What to Inspect:
  • Check if the recall has been completed via an MG dealer
  • Inspect the carpet area for any signs of heat damage
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Jerky DCT Transmission

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The dual-clutch transmission in petrol HS models can be jerky at low speeds or when pulling away.

Est. Repair Cost: Software Update / £300
Warning Signs:

Hesitation when pulling away, Thump during gear changes in traffic

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive in stop-start traffic specifically
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Infotainment Software Glitches

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The infotainment system can suffer from random reboots, Bluetooth disconnections, slow responsiveness, and the satellite navigation failing to load or lock on to satellites.

Est. Repair Cost: Software Update / £0
Warning Signs:

Screen going black mid-drive, Bluetooth dropping out, Sat nav not loading, Random warning beeps with no visible cause

What to Inspect:
  • Test all infotainment functions for 10+ minutes
  • Check that the latest software has been applied
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Cabin Creaks and Build Quality

MinorInterior & Trim

Multiple owners report interior trim creaks and rattles, particularly from the dashboard, door panels, and seat bolsters. The A-pillar driver monitoring camera can also trigger excessively sensitive warnings.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£100
Warning Signs:

Squeaks and rattles over bumps, Driver attention warning bonging even when looking at the road, Loose-feeling interior trim

What to Inspect:
  • Test drive over rough roads
  • Listen for rattles from the dashboard and door cards
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2023 MG HS

  • Confirm the PHEV carpet underlay recall has been completed by an MG dealer
  • Test the facelifted touchscreen for lag and check the software version
  • Listen for sunroof creaks over speed cushions and check the drain tubes