IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2004 MG ZT / ZT-T

The early 2004 facelift replaced the ZT's twin round headlamps with single clear units and brought new bumpers and trim, with 190 models renamed 190+ and 190+ SE.

What changed for 2004

  • •Single clear headlamp units replacing the twin-lamp front end
  • •New bumpers and interior trim finishes
  • •190+ and 190+ SE naming for facelift V6 models

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Sill and jacking point corrosion
  • !Rear brake pipe corrosion above the fuel tank
  • !Worn front wishbone bushes causing uneven tyre wear
5
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

ECU Flooding (Blocked Drains)

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The plenum chamber drains block with leaves, causing water to rise and submerge the engine ECU.

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

Car cuts out, Refusal to start, Random electrical glitches

What to Inspect:
  • Reach into the plenum (below wipers) and feel for standing water or debris
  • Ensure the drain "rubbers" have been cleared or removed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

K-Series Head Gasket Failure (1.8 Petrol)

SeriousEngine

The 1.8 K-Series petrol engine is prone to head gasket failure if the cooling system is neglected. Symptoms include overheating and oil/coolant mixing.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£800
Warning Signs:

Overheating, Oil in coolant / Coolant in oil, Loss of heater performance

What to Inspect:
  • Check the oil filler cap and expansion tank for contamination
  • Verify the coolant level and condition
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Brake Pipe Corrosion

SeriousBrakes

The brake pipes can corrode, particularly in areas where road salt is used. This is a serious safety concern and a common MOT failure point.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£300
Warning Signs:

Spongy brake pedal, Brake fluid leak, MOT failure on corroded pipes

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the brake pipes for rust and leaks
  • Check the MOT history for brake-related failures
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Front Coil Spring Breakage

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The front coil springs are prone to snapping due to fierce corrosion, particularly on UK roads with salt and potholes. 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
  • Check the MOT history for spring-related failures
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electric Seat Motor Failure

MinorInterior & Trim

The electric seat adjustment motor is not hugely reliable and can fail, leaving the seat stuck in one position.

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

Seat adjustment motor not responding, Seat stuck in one position, Grinding noise from seat motor

What to Inspect:
  • Test the electric seat adjustment through its full range
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2004 MG ZT / ZT-T

  • Check the facelift headlights for clouding and trapped moisture
  • Inspect the sills and jacking points with a torch before a test drive
  • Test every electrical item, including the electric seats and sunroof
20032005
Check a 2004 MG ZT / ZT-T by Registration