2017 MG ZS: common problems and what to check
What gets flagged at MOT on 2017 MG ZSs, from 351 tests in 2025, plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: only 351 of these were MOT tested in 2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
What stands out
Parts flagged at MOT more often on 2017 MG ZSs than on all cars registered in 2017.
- Brake discs2.4× usualMG ZS27.9% All 2017 cars11.5%
Failed outright at MOT: 3.1%, against 0.7% of all 2017 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.
Rough price £150–£350 our estimateAt the viewing: Look through the wheel at the brake disc: a deep lip at the edge or heavy scoring means they're worn. Feel for judder when braking.
- Coil springs4.7× usualMG ZS13.7% All 2017 cars2.9%
Failed outright at MOT: 9.1%, against 2% of all 2017 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.
Rough price £175–£400 (pair, one axle) ClickMechanicAt the viewing: Look behind each wheel for a snapped spring coil, and listen for a clunk or twang when turning the wheel lock to lock with the car stopped.
By area
The share of 2017 MG ZS MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Tyres36% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Brakes35% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Lights and electrics26% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Suspension24% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Wipers, windscreen and mirrors9% of testsRough price £15–£250
At the viewing: Check for chips in the driver's view, and test the wipers and washers.
- Seats and seatbelts5% of testsRough price £80–£250
At the viewing: Pull each seatbelt sharply. It should lock, and retract cleanly.
Known faults
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- Steering column jointAll versions
Some steering columns were replaced under warranty, and the universal joint came apart on at least one car.
At the viewing: Feel for play or clunks in the steering.
Source: Auto Express: used MG ZS (Mk1, 2017 on) buyer’s guide
- Clogged particulate filterPetrol
A clogged exhaust particulate filter can make the engine feel like it’s misfiring.
At the viewing: Drive it properly and feel for hesitation.
Source: Auto Express: used MG ZS (Mk1, 2017 on) buyer’s guide
- Headlights on in daylightAll versions
The automatic headlights can switch on in daylight.
At the viewing: Watch the lights on auto.
Source: Auto Express: used MG ZS (Mk1, 2017 on) buyer’s guide
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Other years
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1,644 | Tyres 18% |
| 2022 | 17,647 | Brakes 23% |
| 2021 | 14,989 | Tyres 26% |
| 2020 | 12,499 | Tyres 34% |
| 2019 | 8,696 | Tyres 35% |
| 2018 | 5,092 | Tyres 32% |
| 2005 | 221 | Suspension 30% |
| 2004 | 302 | Suspension 41% |
| 2003 | 243 | Suspension 44% |
| 2002 | 180 | Brakes 42% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test in Great Britain in 2025, counting tests of 2017 MG ZSs registered in 2017. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score