2004 MG TF 1.8L Petrol · GU04 WMY

A pattern of clean MOT results defines this 2004 MG TF, with the most recent assessment on 9 April 2026 returning a pass with no advisories or defects recorded, matching the outcome from the same date a year earlier in April 2025. Across the available testing history the car has demonstrated consistent roadworthiness, with the only blemish being a fail on 15 April 2024 that was immediately followed by a pass later the same day, strongly suggesting a minor repairable item rather than a structural concern. The absence of any recorded advisories over multiple consecutive tests is noteworthy for a 22-year-old sports car of this type, where corrosion advisories on suspension components, exhaust brackets, and underbody steel are commonly observed. Mechanically, the trend is one of stability rather than deterioration. With 95,095 miles accumulated over 22 years, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,322 miles, which is considerably below the typical figure for a vehicle of this age and points towards a usage profile dominated by weekend or fair-weather driving rather than daily commuting. Such low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain and suspension components but raises the possibility of extended periods of standing, which can bring their own challenges around seals, hoses, and electrical connections going stiff through disuse. Any gaps in the recorded MOT history should ideally be checked against the V5 and DVLA records, although the absence of mileage anomalies between consecutive tests suggests no significant unscheduled journeys. For a prospective buyer, the clean advisory history means there are no specific flagged components to follow up on from the MOT data alone, but the MG TF platform has well-documented weak points that warrant close inspection regardless. On a test drive, listen carefully for knocking or clonking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as the front lower wishbone bushes and anti-roll bar drop links are known to wear prematurely and can produce audible impacts even before they show up on an MOT ramp. Feel for any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, which can indicate warped front discs, and check for a pulling sensation that might point to a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. With the K-Series engine family fitted to many of these cars, pay attention to any signs of coolant loss, unusual smoke from the exhaust on start-up, or a ticking noise from the cambelt area, and confirm the timing belt replacement interval has been observed. Given the car is now well into its third decade, a thorough pre-purchase inspection on a ramp remains essential even with a clean MOT record. Examine the rear subframe mounting points for any surface corrosion, as the MG TF was prone to rust forming around these load-bearing structures, and inspect the sills, wheel arches, and boot floor for any bubbling or previous repair work. Check that all roof mechanisms operate smoothly and seal evenly, since perished hood fabric and degraded seals are common age-related issues on this model. Finally, verify the service history shows regular fluid changes including brake fluid and coolant, and confirm the cambelt and water pump have been replaced within the manufacturer-recommended interval, as a neglected timing belt on a K-Series engine can lead to catastrophic valve damage.