2002 MG ZR 1.4L Petrol · SP02 TXD
2002 MG ZR (1.4L, petrol). First registered 01 Apr 2002. Recorded mileage 41,731 miles. MOT valid until 01 Dec 2026. Taxed until 01 May 2027.
- Make & Model
- MG ZR
- Year / Origin
- 2002 · Dundee
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 01 Dec 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 May 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 41,731 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.4L
- 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.
SP02 TXD Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 02/12/2025
- 41,731 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring windscreen items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
SP02 TXD 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 2002 Mg Zr (SP02 TXD) between December 2022 and December 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 02 December 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Windscreen (2 issues), Suspension (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 13 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.
SP02 TXD Mileage History
- 02/12/202241,400 mi
- 01/12/202341,591 mi+191 mi
- 29/11/202441,701 mi+110 mi
- 02/12/202541,731 mi+30 mi
- 02/12/202541,731 mi
Average of roughly 110 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 ZR
Our database tracks 5 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A rare low-mileage example that requires
Pay close attention to the drive shaft CV boots, as the nearside front boot was flagged as severely deteriorated in both 2024 and 2025. You should also verify if the 'reduced damping effect' on the front shock absorbers noted in 2024 has been rectified, as this affects ride quality and safety.
Request evidence of any repairs regarding the oil leak mentioned in the November 2024 test. Given the age of the vehicle, check for evidence of a comprehensive service history to ensure the engine has been maintained despite the low annual mileage.
Powered by a 1396cc petrol engine, this ZR will have moderate fuel costs but will be less efficient than modern small cars. Insurance typically falls into a mid-range group for hatchbacks, and road tax is based on its 2002 emissions bracket.
Maintenance costs for a 20-year-old vehicle can be unpredictable. Budget for the replacement of perished rubber components and potential suspension work, which are common for vehicles of this vintage.
Specifically inspect the nearside and offside front drive shaft joints for boot integrity, following the repeated MOT advisories. Check the underside for signs of the oil leak recorded in 2024 and look closely for corrosion on the chassis and sills, as corrosion is a top failure reason for this model across 3,580 analysed vehicles.
Additionally, check the condition of the registration plates, which have been flagged as deteriorated in every test since 2022, and ensure the rear stop lamps are functioning correctly following the failure in December 2025.
This blue 2002 MG ZR has covered just 41,731 miles, which is significantly lower than the model average. Its MOT history shows a generally consistent testing pattern, although the 2024 and 2025 records highlight recurring issues with CV boots, shock absorbers, and an oil leak.
The MG ZR has an average MOT pass rate of 73.7%, with corrosion, headlamps, and parking brake efficiency being the most common failure points.
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: MG ZR
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- K-Series Head Gasket Failure (HGF)(Serious)
The K-Series engine is prone to head gasket failure due to its small coolant capacity and plastic locating dowels that allow the head to shift.
- Worn Front Suspension(Moderate)
The front suspension bushes and ball joints wear out, leading to vague steering, knocking noises, and poor handling. This is a common MOT failure point and can be exacerbated by hard driving.
- Coil Pack Failure(Moderate)
The ignition coil pack is known for failing on the ZR, causing misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
- Door Lock Failure(Moderate)
The door lock actuators, particularly on the driver's door, are known to fail, making it difficult to lock or unlock the car.
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MG ZR 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 2002 model year cars.
- K-Series Head Gasket Failure (HGF)Serious
The K-Series engine is prone to head gasket failure due to its small coolant capacity and plastic locating dowels that allow the head to shift.
- Worn Front SuspensionModerate
The front suspension bushes and ball joints wear out, leading to vague steering, knocking noises, and poor handling. This is a common MOT failure point and can be exacerbated by hard driving.
- Coil Pack FailureModerate
The ignition coil pack is known for failing on the ZR, causing misfires, rough running, and difficulty starting.
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