IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2004 Rover 45

Major facelift under MG Rover introducing contemporary twin-lens headlamp clusters, smooth boot lid with bold chrome ROVER lettering, circular interior air vents, and revised trims.

What changed for 2004

  • •Modernised exterior styling featuring smooth front and rear bumpers and twin-lens headlights
  • •Smooth tailgate and boot lid styling stamped with prominent polished chrome ROVER script
  • •Cabin overhaul with contemporary circular dashboard air vents and soft-touch centre console
  • •Rationalised trim structure introducing well-equipped GLi and GSi luxury run-out variants

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Pektron electronic control unit relay faults affecting windscreen wipers, horn, and central locking
  • !Brake pipe corrosion and degraded rear flexible brake lines on aging UK chassis
4
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

K-Series Head Gasket Failure

SeriousEngine

Applies to 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8 models. Standard K-Series symptoms and fixes apply.

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

Overheating, Coolant loss, Oil/water mixing

What to Inspect:
  • Oil cap and coolant tank for contamination
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Water Ingress (Bulkhead Seam Failure)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The seam sealer on the bulkhead cracks with age, allowing water into the front passenger footwell. Leaks under the carpet are usually from seam failure, while leaks on top enter through the heater blower inlet.

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

Wet front passenger carpet, Damp smell in cabin, Water pooling under the carpet

What to Inspect:
  • Lift the front passenger carpet and inspect the bulkhead seams
  • Check for water staining
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VIS Motor Failure (V6)

ModerateEngine

The 2.0 V6 uses Variable Intake System motors that fail, leading to reduced performance and a rattling intake manifold.

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

Lack of power at high revs, Rattling from the intake manifold, Poor fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Listen for rattling from the plastic manifold
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Sagging Headlining

MinorInterior & Trim

The glue holding the fabric to the roof board fails, causing the fabric to hang down and obstruct vision.

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

Roof fabric hanging down

What to Inspect:
  • Look at the ceiling; pins or staples are often used as a temporary fix
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2004 Rover 45

  • Thoroughly test all electrical circuits and both remote key fobs to verify Pektron SCU health
  • Check 2.0-litre KV6 engines for inlet manifold rattles caused by failing plastic VIS motor actuators