2001 MG ZT: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the MG ZT first registered in 2001: we looked at the 203 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 203 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2001 MG ZT MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2001 MG ZT MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Suspension45% 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.
- Brakes40% 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 electrics32% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Tyres20% 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.
- Rust and bodywork12% of testsRough price £150–£1,000
At the viewing: Check the sills, wheel arches and underneath for rust, and look along the panels for uneven gaps or paint.
- Steering11% of testsRough price £100–£450
At the viewing: On a straight road the steering wheel should sit straight. Feel for play or knocking when turning.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2001 MG ZT
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at an MG ZT?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the MG ZT compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | – | Too few tests |
| 2006 | 259 | Suspension 38% |
| 2005 | 913 | Suspension 44% |
| 2004 | 1,500 | Brakes 39% |
| 2003 | 908 | Suspension 42% |
| 2002 | 476 | Suspension 43% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of MG ZT cars first registered in 2001. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score