1998 Rover 800 2.5L Petrol · S129 XAT
1998 Rover 800 (2.5L, petrol). First registered 01 Oct 1998. Recorded mileage 89,081 miles. MOT expired on 29 Oct 2008.
- Make & Model
- ROVER 800
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 29 Oct 2008
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (26 Mar 2008)
- Recorded Mileage
- 89,081 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.5L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S129 XAT Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 30/10/2007
- 89,081 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (6 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S129 XAT MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Rover 800 (S129 XAT) between October 2006 and October 2007.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 30 October 2007 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (6 issues), Tyres (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 6 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
S129 XAT Mileage History
- 20/10/200685,737 mi
- 20/10/200685,737 mi
- 30/10/200789,081 mi+3,344 mi
- 30/10/200789,081 mi
Average of roughly 3,257 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Rover Rover 800 Series
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Common Problems: ROVER 800
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- KV6 Early Head Gasket/Liner Failure(Serious)
The 2.5 KV6 in the 800 was prone to catastrophic failure due to slipped cylinder liners.
- Electric Window Regulator Failure(Moderate)
Later R17 models are particularly known for electric windows failing. The windows can slide back down after being raised, or become hesitant and difficult to operate.
- Rust on Rear Wheel Arches(Moderate)
The rear wheel arches are prone to rusting, which can spread and become structural if left untreated.
- Electrical Gremlins (Windows, Central Locking)(Moderate)
The 800 series is known for various electrical issues, including failing electric windows, central locking faults, and intermittent dashboard warning lights. These are often age-related wiring and relay issues.
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ROVER 800 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 1998 model year cars.
- KV6 Early Head Gasket/Liner FailureSerious
The 2.5 KV6 in the 800 was prone to catastrophic failure due to slipped cylinder liners.
- Electric Window Regulator FailureModerate
Later R17 models are particularly known for electric windows failing. The windows can slide back down after being raised, or become hesitant and difficult to operate.
- Rust on Rear Wheel ArchesModerate
The rear wheel arches are prone to rusting, which can spread and become structural if left untreated.
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