2003 MG TF 1.6L Petrol · SH53 HPU
2003 MG TF (1.6L, petrol). First registered 12 Dec 2003. Recorded mileage 74,725 miles. MOT valid until 17 Mar 2027.
- Make & Model
- MG TF
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 17 Mar 2027
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 74,725 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
SH53 HPU Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 18/03/2026
- 74,725 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 3 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
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.
Technical Specifications
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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.
SH53 HPU Mileage History
- 03/06/202470,140 mi
- 04/06/202574,136 mi+3,996 mi
- 01/07/202574,215 mi+79 mi
- 18/02/202672,274 mi-1,941 mi
- 18/03/202674,725 mi+2,451 mi
Average of roughly 2,564 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Recorded mileage decreased between one or more tests — a potential clocking indicator worth verifying before purchase.
SH53 HPU 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 (SH53 HPU) between June 2024 and March 2026.
The record contains 2 passes and 3 failures.
The most recent test on 18 March 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 3 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
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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