2003 MG ZR 1.4L Petrol · WJ53 UOB
2003 MG ZR (1.4L, petrol). First registered 25 Sept 2003. Recorded mileage 88,047 miles. MOT expired on 07 Oct 2026.
- Make & Model
- MG ZR
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Exeter
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 07 Oct 2026
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 88,047 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
WJ53 UOB Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 08/10/2025
- 88,047 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 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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Dimensions & Weights
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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.
WJ53 UOB Mileage History
- 26/09/202385,551 mi
- 26/09/202385,551 mi
- 03/10/202486,680 mi+1,129 mi
- 02/10/202588,040 mi+1,360 mi
- 08/10/202588,047 mi+7 mi
Average of roughly 1,227 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
WJ53 UOB 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 Zr (WJ53 UOB) between September 2023 and October 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 08 October 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
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.
Browse production generations, registration statistics, and trim variants.
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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