2003 MG ZR 2.0L Diesel · VO53 PKU
2003 MG ZR (2.0L, diesel). First registered 01 Sept 2003. Recorded mileage 162,580 miles. MOT expired on 30 Sept 2013.
- Make & Model
- MG ZR
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Worcester
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 30 Sept 2013
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (31 Oct 2013)
- Recorded Mileage
- 162,580 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- DIESEL · 2.0L
- 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.
VO53 PKU Key Findings
- 12 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT failed on 11/11/2013
- 162,580 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 6 historical MOT failures
- 6 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (8 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
VO53 PKU MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
12 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Mg Zr (VO53 PKU) between September 2006 and November 2013.
The record contains 6 passes and 6 failures.
The most recent test on 11 November 2013 was a fail; the vehicle has not passed its last recorded MOT.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (8 issues), Lighting (6 issues), Windscreen (2 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 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: “Parking brake: efficiency below requirements (3.7.B.7)”; “Service brake: efficiency below requirements (3.7.B.7)”; “Offside engine mounting deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (6.1.D.1a)”.
VO53 PKU Mileage History
- 08/09/200678,315 mi
- 04/10/2007102,114 mi+23,799 mi
- 04/10/2007102,114 mi
- 15/01/2009118,569 mi+16,455 mi
- 15/01/2009118,569 mi
- 01/06/2010128,520 mi+9,951 mi
- 08/06/2010128,531 mi+11 mi
- 30/09/2011137,510 mi+8,979 mi
- 30/09/2011137,512 mi+2 mi
- 28/09/2012148,642 mi+11,130 mi
- 01/10/2012148,642 mi
- 11/11/2013162,580 mi+13,938 mi
Average of roughly 11,742 miles per year across 12 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: 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 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.
- SCU / BCU Failure (Pektron)(Moderate)
Later models (2003+) use a Pektron SCU that controls windows, fobs, and wipers. It is notorious for relay failure.
- 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.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2003 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.
- SCU / BCU Failure (Pektron)Moderate
Later models (2003+) use a Pektron SCU that controls windows, fobs, and wipers. It is notorious for relay failure.
- 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.
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