ECU Flooding (Blocked Drains)
SeriousElectrics & ElectronicsThe plenum chamber below the windscreen has small drain holes that block with leaves. Water then rises and submerges the engine ECU.
Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Reliability GuideCommon Problems with the
Common Problems with the
1999 Rover 75
The Rover 75 launched as the first (and last) model developed wholly under BMW ownership. Unveiled at the 1998 Birmingham Motor Show with deliveries from February 1999, it offered superb build quality, a beautifully appointed cabin, and a range of engines including the 1.8, 2.0 V6, 2.5 V6, and 2.0 BMW diesel. Early cars built at Cowley are generally the best quality.
What changed for 1999
- •UK launch—first model developed under BMW ownership
- •Cowley production (moved to Longbridge in 2000)
- •1.8, 2.0 V6, 2.5 V6, and 2.0 CDT diesel engines
- •BMW Z-Axle rear suspension
Common MOT watch-outs
- !Plenum chamber drain blockages—check for ECU flooding risk
- !K-Series 1.8 models vulnerable to head gasket failure
4
Known Issues
3
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor
All Known Issues
Clutch Slave Cylinder Failure
SeriousGearbox & TransmissionThe slave cylinder is located inside the gearbox bellhousing (concentric slave). When it leaks, the gearbox must be removed to replace it.
Est. Repair Cost: £600–£900
KV6 Plastic Thermostat Housing Leak
SeriousCooling SystemThe thermostat housing sits in the "V" of the engine and is made of plastic. It becomes brittle and cracks, leaking coolant invisibly.
Est. Repair Cost: £200–£350
KV6 VIS Motor Failure
ModerateEngineThe 2.0 and 2.5 V6 engines use "Variable Intake System" motors. The internal plastic cogs or the motors themselves fail.
Est. Repair Cost: £150–£400
Buying Tips for 1999 Rover 75
- ✓1999 cars built at Cowley tend to have the best build quality
- ✓The 2.0 CDT diesel (BMW M47R) is the most reliable engine choice
- ✓Always check the plenum chamber drains are clear