Used MG Rover TF 2002 - 2005 reliability review

Name: Used MG Rover TF 2002 - 2005
Rating: 2
Author: Stuart Milne

The MG TF is easy to live with and surprisngly practical for a two-seater

How we test cars

What should I look for in a used MG MGF?

The condition of the TF's hood is very important as even the slightest crease or tear will let water into the cabin. Make sure the hood folds up and down smoothly and latches into place easily. If it doesn't, the frame may have been bent by someone leaning on it and this can be pricey to fix.

The engines are generally rugged, but the 1.8 can suffer from a blown head gasket; slimy white gunk around the oil filler cap is a dead giveaway. Also check the gearlever moves cleanly as its joints can wear, making for a sloppy and inaccurate shift.

Electrical glitches are another bugbear of the TF, such as sticking electric windows and radios that don't want to play.

Tips & Advice

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About the writer

Name: Stuart Milne

Title: Digital editor

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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.