1. Head Gasket failure on K series engines (see my previous articles for this one)
2. Fuel pump & pickup failure on 75/ZT models (see my previous articles for this one)
3. Fuel burning heater on Diesel engine 75/ZT models (see my previous articles for this one)
4. Pollen filter cavity obstruction on 75/ZT models. This one is quite common, in as much as debris collects in the bulkhead / scuttle panel area where the pollen filter is located. Once there is sufficient debris blocking the drain tubes, the rainwater collects and builds up in volume. This then saturates the filter and starts to drown the Electronic Control Module also located in this area. We have seen them where it has stopped just short of the ECM and all that is required to rectify the problem is to clean the drain tubes with welding wire and watch the water flow out. Once it is all dry a new filter is fitted. The only way to prevent damage to the ECM is to regularly replace the pollen filter and ensure that the drain tubes are clear (e.g. every second service, unless you regularly park in a tree-shedding area).
5. Thermostat failure on KV6 engines. (see my previous articles for this one)
6. Handbrake cables stretching on 75/ZT models. This is one that is only now becoming apparent several years on since the models were introduced. We have had to adjust the handbrake shoes and cables on so many cars but once all the adjustment has been taken up the only other available option is to replace the cables.
7. Leaking dampers and worn bushes on MGF/TF models. We are seeing so many F and TF models with worn damper bushes (front & rear bushes on the F) and leaking dampers (rear on the TF). This can result in potentially dangerous road handling characteristics and uneven tyre wear unless rectified.
8. Gearbox failure on all models. The diffential support bearings collapse over time causing wear on the geartrain and generating excessive noise. Also, the Steptronic CVT gearbox suffers internal bearing failure, resulting in the same symptoms. Only recitification is to recondition the gearbox.
9. Wiper linkage failure on MGF models. If the linkage rod ends are particularly worn then the connecting linkages detach from the spindles. Rectification is relatively inexpensive and easy to carry out.
10. Remote PLIP failure. On remote PLIPs with two buttons (Lucas 5AS system). The problem is that they just fail whenever and that is it, your car is immobilised. First thing is to check/replace the internal battery. If it still doesn’t work then replacement is the only method. The immobiliser unit has to be programmed to the PLIP and this requires the car to be connected to a computer to code it in. It is always worth while to know your EKA code (Emergency Key Access Code) which you can use to overide the immobilser. This process is detailed in your handbook and involves turning the key in the drivers door lock and certain amount of times in both directions. This then allows you to drive the car as normal until the PLIP is operated again.
………….. Watch this space for more thrilling updates and don’t lose sleep at night !! MG Rover is in my mind one of the most reliable and well built cars that were produced in this country and although the list looks frightening, compared to a lot of other makes and models of cars (particularly French produced cars) it’s not that bad at all. Trevor Catt (H.A.S MG Rover)