Morgan Plus Four / Plus Six (CX-Generation) Common Problems & Reliability
The CX-Generation represents a revolution for Morgan, replacing the century-old steel ladder chassis with a state-of-the-art bonded aluminium platform while retaining the traditional ash-wood body frame and classic styling. Powered by modern, turbocharged BMW engines (a 2.0L four-cylinder in the Plus Four and a 3.0L inline-six in the Plus Six), they offer vastly improved performance, handling, and daily usability. In the UK, they bridge the gap between vintage charm and modern sports car capability. Reliability is excellent, underpinned by the bulletproof BMW drivetrains. It perfectly suits buyers who want classic looks and craftsmanship but demand modern starting reliability and brisk performance.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Morgan Plus Four / Plus Six (CX-Generation) Faults & Repair Costs
Radiator Leaks
Several early CX-generation cars suffered from failing radiator cores, leading to coolant loss.
Coolant smell, Low coolant warning, Puddle under the front of the car
- Check the bottom of the radiator for staining.
Brake Master Cylinder Recall
A critical safety recall was issued for the brake master cylinder which could lead to a loss of braking pressure.
Long brake pedal travel, Soft pedal
- Verify the brake recall has been signed off by a Morgan dealer.
Water Ingress & Weatherproofing
Even modern Morgans are not fully watertight. Doors, windscreen seals and hood fitment can allow water into the cabin, particularly at speed in rain. Owners often fit foam strips to door edges.
Wet carpets or seats after rain, Wind noise at motorway speeds, Water dripping from door edges
- Inspect door seals and windscreen perimeter.
- Check for water stains on interior wood or leather.
- Test hood fitment in wet conditions.
BMW B58 Oil Filter Housing & Coolant Leaks
The B48/B58 engines can suffer from cracked oil filter housing gaskets and coolant return line leaks. The filter housing sits under the intake manifold, making access difficult and labour-intensive.
Oil drips under the car, Coolant loss, Sweet smell from engine bay
- Check under the intake manifold for oil or coolant residue.
- Inspect coolant return hoses and jubilee clips.
BMW B58 Oil Filter Housing & Coolant Leaks
The B48/B58 engines can suffer from cracked oil filter housing gaskets and coolant return line leaks. The filter housing sits under the intake manifold, making access difficult and labour-intensive.
Oil drips under the car, Coolant loss, Sweet smell from engine bay
- Check under the intake manifold for oil or coolant residue.
- Inspect coolant return hoses and jubilee clips.
Buying a used Morgan Plus Four / Plus Six (CX-Generation)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.