2003 MG TF 1.6L Petrol · RY53 YVL
2003 MG TF (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01 Dec 2003. Recorded mileage 52,034 miles. MOT valid until 19 Dec 2026. Taxed until 01 Jan 2027.
- Make & Model
- MG TF
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 19 Dec 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jan 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 52,034 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- 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.
RY53 YVL Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/12/2025
- 52,034 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (7 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
RY53 YVL MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Mg Tf (RY53 YVL) between August 2023 and December 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 16 December 2025 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 (7 issues), Lighting (5 issues), Windscreen (2 issues), Suspension (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 7 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: “Nearside Rear Lower Shock absorbers has an excessively worn bush (5.3.2 (c))”; “Hazard warning lamps inoperative (4.4.1 (e))”; “Nearside Front Lower Shock absorbers has an excessively worn bush (5.3.2 (c))”.
RY53 YVL Mileage History
- 04/08/202347,388 mi
- 17/08/202347,388 mi
- 12/08/202449,508 mi+2,120 mi
- 20/12/202449,513 mi+5 mi
- 16/12/202552,034 mi+2,521 mi
Average of roughly 1,962 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for MG MG TF
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
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 TF
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Head Gasket Failure(Serious)
Like the ZR, the TF uses the K-Series engine. The mid-engine layout makes cooling even more critical.
- Subframe and Sill Rust(Serious)
The front and rear subframes, sills, and rear wheel arches are highly prone to rust. Pre-2007 Chinese-built cars are generally better protected, but all TFs need careful inspection underneath.
- Electrical Gremlins(Moderate)
Electric windows and central locking can play up. The roof wiring loom for heated rear screens often frays and breaks over time due to repeated folding.
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MG TF 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.
- Head Gasket FailureSerious
Like the ZR, the TF uses the K-Series engine. The mid-engine layout makes cooling even more critical.
- Subframe and Sill RustSerious
The front and rear subframes, sills, and rear wheel arches are highly prone to rust. Pre-2007 Chinese-built cars are generally better protected, but all TFs need careful inspection underneath.
- Electrical GremlinsModerate
Electric windows and central locking can play up. The roof wiring loom for heated rear screens often frays and breaks over time due to repeated folding.
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