2003 Rover 45 2.0L Diesel · KX53 LXC
2003 Rover 45 (2.0L, diesel). First registered 24 Sept 2003. Recorded mileage 167,275 miles. MOT expired on 30 Sept 2023. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- ROVER 45
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Northampton
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 30 Sept 2023
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 167,275 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 2.0L
- 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.
KX53 LXC Key Findings
- 1 MOT test recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 27/09/2022
- 167,275 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
KX53 LXC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
1 MOT test are recorded for this 2003 Rover 45 (KX53 LXC) between September 2022 and September 2022.
The record contains 1 pass and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 2 advisory notices note items to monitor.
In total 2 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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Rover Rover 45
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution due to the vehicle's high mileage and age. While the most recent MOTs show no defects, the high mileage for a 2003 model requires a thorough mechanical inspection.
Given the age and high mileage of this 1.9L diesel Rover, your primary focus should be on the service history. An MOT record can show if a car passed, but it cannot confirm if oil changes or timing belt replacements were performed. Ask the seller for documentation regarding the timing belt and water pump, as these are critical on this engine type.
Negotiate based on the mileage; at over 167,000 miles, many components will be nearing the end of their natural lifespan. Ensure you check for any signs of oil leaks around the engine bay and verify that the diesel fuel system has been maintained to avoid expensive injector issues common in older diesel engines.
As a 2.0L diesel, fuel economy should be relatively efficient for its era, though actual figures will depend on maintenance. Tax and insurance groups for a 2003 Rover 45 are typically moderate, making it an affordable option for low-speed commuting.
Maintenance costs may fluctuate; while parts for older Rovers can be inexpensive, the high mileage increases the likelihood of needing repairs to wear-and-tear items like suspension or exhaust components. Expect an estimated annual running cost in the region of £900-£1,200, including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance.
Pay close attention to the suspension and underside of the vehicle. Aggregate data for this model identifies suspension arms and corrosion as top MOT failure reasons, so check for worn bushings or significant rust on the chassis.
Additionally, inspect the headlamps for clarity and functionality, as this is another common failure point for this model. Given the 167,275 miles recorded, check the clutch feel and gear change smoothness, as well as any unusual noises from the diesel engine that might indicate high-mileage wear.
This 2003 Rover 45 diesel, finished in green, has covered 167,275 miles as of its last MOT in September 2022. While the most recent two MOT tests passed without defects, the vehicle's mileage is significantly higher than the model average of 3,554 miles per year. The history shows a single failure in September 2021, though no specific defect was recorded for that failure in the provided data.
Aggregate data for the Rover 45 shows a 70.4% average MOT pass rate, with common issues involving suspension, lighting, and corrosion.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Common Problems: ROVER 45
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- K-Series Head Gasket Failure(Serious)
Applies to 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8 models. Standard K-Series symptoms and fixes apply.
- Water Ingress (Bulkhead Seam Failure)(Moderate)
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.
- VIS Motor Failure (V6)(Moderate)
The 2.0 V6 uses Variable Intake System motors that fail, leading to reduced performance and a rattling intake manifold.
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ROVER 45 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2003 model year cars.
- K-Series Head Gasket FailureSerious
Applies to 1.4, 1.6, and 1.8 models. Standard K-Series symptoms and fixes apply.
- Water Ingress (Bulkhead Seam Failure)Moderate
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.
- VIS Motor Failure (V6)Moderate
The 2.0 V6 uses Variable Intake System motors that fail, leading to reduced performance and a rattling intake manifold.
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