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UK Buyer Reliability Guide3 Known Faults Documented

Rover 600 Series Common Problems & Reliability

The Rover 600 Series was a handsome executive saloon based closely on the Honda Accord, featuring styling by Richard Woolley that many consider to be among the most elegant of the 1990s. In the UK, it was a popular company car, offering Honda reliability clothed in British executive elegance. The majority of the petrol engines were Honda units, making them highly dependable, while the L-Series diesel was a rugged, if agricultural, Rover design. Reliability is generally excellent, but finding spare body panels and trim is now extremely difficult. It is a fantastic, reliable modern classic for those who appreciate understated 90s design.

Check a Rover 600 Series by RegistrationView Rover 600 Series Specs & MOT History
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Generation Periods
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Known Issues
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Critical Faults
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Moderate Issues

Select a Model Year Period

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

1993–19993 issues

Most Common Rover 600 Series Faults & Repair Costs

Moderate Risk

Front Upper Wishbone Wear

Est. Cost£100–£200

The ball joints in the upper arms wear out, causing knocking noises over bumps.

Warning Signs:

Knocking noise from the front suspension, Uneven tyre wear

High Risk

Turbo Oil Leaks (620ti)

Est. Cost£300–£800

The Rover T-Series turbo engine in the 620ti can develop oil leaks from the turbo feed pipe and turbo seals, leading to smoke from the exhaust and potential turbo failure.

Warning Signs:

Blue smoke from exhaust, Oil consumption, Whining from turbo area, Loss of boost

Moderate Risk

Electric Window Regulator Failure

Est. Cost£100–£250

The electric window regulators are known to fail, particularly on later models, causing the window to drop or become stuck.

Warning Signs:

Window dropping inside the door, Window not moving, Grinding noise from window motor

Essential Pre-Purchase Step

Buying a used Rover 600 Series? 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.

Check Any UK Registration FreeExplore Rover 600 Series Specs & Trims

Inspection Checklist for Rover 600 Series Buyers

✓Prioritize models with the Honda 2.0-litre petrol engines, as they are exceptionally reliable if serviced regularly.
✓Check the rear wheel arches and the bottom of the doors for rust, which is common on all UK cars of this era.
✓Ensure the electric windows operate smoothly; the regulators frequently fail and replacements can be hard to source.
✓Listen to the L-Series diesel (if applicable) for excessive smoke on cold startup, indicating worn injectors or glow plugs.
✓Verify the condition of the exterior chrome trim, as it frequently pits and is very difficult to replace.
✓Check the automatic gearbox on Honda-engined models; they are robust but require specific Honda ATF fluid.