2004 MG TF 1.8L Petrol · L9 KGT

The most recent MOT on 26 May 2026 was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding three years have shown a consistent pattern of passes with only advisory items noted. The vehicle has not failed a test since 2023, when a failure was recorded solely for a headlamp aim issue that was also listed as an advisory. Overall the maintenance trend appears stable; the only recurring concern is mild corrosion on the off‑side front lower suspension arm, which has not progressed to a safety‑critical condition, and a slight play noted on the near‑side front track‑rod end in 2020. There are no major safety failures, suggesting that routine servicing has been kept reasonably up‑to‑date. At 29,958 mi the MG TF averages roughly 1,360 mi per year over its 22‑year life, a markedly low annual usage for a sports‑roadster of this age. Such low mileage often indicates that the car has spent considerable periods stationary, which can exacerbate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, seals and corrosion‑prone metalwork. The mileage does not point to high‑stress wear on the engine, gearbox or drivetrain, but the limited use means that consumables such as tyres, brake pads and discs, and the 12 V battery may have aged beyond their intended service life despite the low kilometre count. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the off‑side front lower suspension arm for any increase in rust penetration, cracked bushings or loosened mounting bolts; the arm should be solid under load and free of excessive movement when the wheel is rocked. On a drive, listen for clunking or knocking from the front left corner when encountering bumps, and watch for any change in wheel alignment that could indicate the arm is beginning to lose its geometry. The near‑side front track‑rod end, previously noted with slight play, should be checked for worn ball‑joint bearings and any looseness in the tie‑rod; symptoms include vague steering wander, a feeling of looseness when turning at low speed, or uneven tyre wear on the inner edge of the front left tyre. The near‑side headlamp aim, flagged in 2023, should be verified to ensure the beam is correctly centred and not causing glare to oncoming traffic. Given the car’s age and low mileage, also examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as rubber can deteriorate with time even when unused. Inspect the brake discs for surface corrosion, pitting or uneven wear that could cause shudder under braking, and verify that the pads have sufficient thickness. Test the battery’s cranking voltage and check for any signs of electrolyte leakage or swollen case, as batteries left idle for long periods often lose capacity. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been changed within the recommended calendar intervals; old fluids can become contaminated or lose their protective properties, leading to premature wear of seals and internal components. A thorough visual and tactile inspection, combined with a careful road test, should reveal whether any of these age‑related items require immediate attention or can be addressed as part of routine maintenance.