Used MG Rover ZS Hatchback 2001 - 2005 reliability
Category: Family car
The styling and cabin are questionable, but MG ZS is a cheap and fun to drive car
What should I look for in a used MG ZS hatchback?
The most fuel-efficient MG is the 53mpg, 111bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel, but let's be realistic here, none of these cars was bought with economy as the number one concern. Each and every ZS will have been driven hard at some point.
To be fair, the diesel engines should be able to take the punishment, but the same can't always be said of the 1.6- and 1.8-litre petrols. Blown head gaskets - often brought on by water leaks - are a fairly common fault.
Have an expert check the front suspension, because there can be problems, although they are not necessarily expensive faults to rectify. Sometimes new bushes will do the trick.
New boot struts might be needed, too. After years of lifting those heavy rear spoilers, they may no longer be able to hold the boot up. Interior trim can also give up the ghost, as can the standard-fit alarm.
