UK Buyer Reliability Guide5 Known Faults Documented

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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Generation Periods
5
Known Issues
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Critical Faults
3
Moderate Issues

Select a Model Year Period

Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.

Most Common Morgan Plus Four / Plus Six (CX-Generation) Faults & Repair Costs

Moderate Risk

Radiator Leaks

Est. Cost£600–£1,000 (Often warranty)

Several early CX-generation cars suffered from failing radiator cores, leading to coolant loss.

Warning Signs:

Coolant smell, Low coolant warning, Puddle under the front of the car

High Risk

Brake Master Cylinder Recall

Est. Cost£0 (Recall)

A critical safety recall was issued for the brake master cylinder which could lead to a loss of braking pressure.

Warning Signs:

Long brake pedal travel, Soft pedal

Low Risk

Water Ingress & Weatherproofing

Est. Cost£50–£200 (DIY sealing)

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.

Warning Signs:

Wet carpets or seats after rain, Wind noise at motorway speeds, Water dripping from door edges

Moderate Risk

BMW B58 Oil Filter Housing & Coolant Leaks

Est. Cost£500–£1,200

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.

Warning Signs:

Oil drips under the car, Coolant loss, Sweet smell from engine bay

Moderate Risk

BMW B58 Oil Filter Housing & Coolant Leaks

Est. Cost£500–£1,200

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.

Warning Signs:

Oil drips under the car, Coolant loss, Sweet smell from engine bay

Essential Pre-Purchase Step

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.

Inspection Checklist for Morgan Plus Four / Plus Six (CX-Generation) Buyers

Check the BMW-sourced automatic gearbox (if fitted) for smooth shifts, particularly when cold.
Inspect the wire wheels (on Plus Four) or alloy wheels (Plus Six) for any signs of curbing or damage.
Verify the fit and finish of the traditional ash frame and hand-beaten aluminium panels, ensuring panel gaps are even.
Test the modern digital dashboard and infotainment screen (if fitted) to ensure they operate without glitches.
Check the condition of the mohair hood; it is vastly improved over classic models but still requires careful folding.
Ensure the vehicle has a full service history; while the engine is BMW, the chassis requires Morgan specialist knowledge.