1997 MG MGF 1.8L Petrol · P81 APR
1997 MG MGF (1.8L, petrol). First registered 03 May 1997. Recorded mileage 71,688 miles. MOT expired on 10 Nov 2022.
- Make & Model
- MG MGF
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Preston
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 10 Nov 2022
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 71,688 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.8L
- 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.
P81 APR Key Findings
- 21 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 11/11/2021
- 71,688 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 8 historical MOT failures
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (26 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
P81 APR MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
21 MOT tests are recorded for this 1997 Mg Mgf (P81 APR) between October 2006 and November 2021.
The record contains 13 passes and 8 failures.
The most recent test on 11 November 2021 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 8 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (26 issues), Lighting (24 issues), Tyres (10 issues), Brakes (10 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (4 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 49 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.
Recorded failure items include: “Exhaust carbon monoxide content after 2nd fast idle exceeds default limits (8.2.1.2 (b))”; “Exhaust Lambda reading after 2nd fast idle outside specified limits (8.2.1.2 (c))”; “Exhaust emissions Lambda reading after 2nd fast idle outside specified limits (7.3.D.3)”.
P81 APR Mileage History
- 10/10/200639,958 mi
- 10/10/200639,958 mi
- 05/10/200741,607 mi+1,649 mi
- 14/10/200843,086 mi+1,479 mi
- 08/10/200944,764 mi+1,678 mi
- 21/10/200944,799 mi+35 mi
- 20/10/201046,618 mi+1,819 mi
- 06/10/201149,411 mi+2,793 mi
- 14/10/201149,417 mi+6 mi
- 18/10/201253,594 mi+4,177 mi
- 25/03/201555,440 mi+1,846 mi
- 21/04/201656,480 mi+1,040 mi
- 05/04/201756,531 mi+51 mi
- 23/04/201866,542 mi+10,011 mi
- 22/10/201866,558 mi+16 mi
- 01/04/201966,591 mi+33 mi
- 01/04/201966,591 mi
- 27/10/202070,674 mi+4,083 mi
- 27/10/202070,674 mi
- 11/11/202171,688 mi+1,014 mi
- 11/11/202171,688 mi
Average of roughly 2,103 miles per year across 21 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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Known faults for MG MGF
Our database tracks 2 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: MG MGF
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Hydragas Suspension Leaks/Depressurisation(Moderate)
The unique interconnected fluid/gas suspension system can leak or lose pressure over time, leading to a harsh ride and low ground clearance.
- Head Gasket Failure(Serious)
Standard K-Series issue, exacerbated by the mid-engine layout and long coolant pipes to the front radiator.
Vehicle & Plate History
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MG MGF Model Intelligence & Reliability
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Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 1997 model year cars.
- Hydragas Suspension Leaks/DepressurisationModerate
The unique interconnected fluid/gas suspension system can leak or lose pressure over time, leading to a harsh ride and low ground clearance.
- Head Gasket FailureSerious
Standard K-Series issue, exacerbated by the mid-engine layout and long coolant pipes to the front radiator.
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