At a Glance
The Mg Magnette has 1 identified common problems across 2 generations (1953–1968), with the ZA/ZB being the most affected generation and brakes the most common problem category. Based on 4K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Mg Magnette common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Mg Magnette generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
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Browse Mg Magnette Generations
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Most Common Mg Magnette MOT Failures
Every reason Mg Magnette vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake performance below minimum | 21.96% |
| 2 | Headlamp aim defect | 6.73% |
| 3 | Suspension mounting corroded | 5.33% |
| 4 | Windscreen washer not working | 4.79% |
| 5 | Number plate lamp not working | 4.09% |
| 6 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 3.93% |
| 7 | Indicator fault | 3.77% |
| 8 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 3.18% |
| 9 | Stop lamp not working | 3.12% |
| 10 | Steering rack fault | 2.96% |
| 11 | Exhaust system fault | 2.91% |
| 12 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 2.74% |
| 13 | Spring mounting corroded | 2.69% |
| 14 | Horn not working | 2.53% |
| 15 | Body corrosion or damage | 2.48% |
| 16 | Tyre condition | 2.26% |
| 17 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 2.10% |
| 18 | Chassis condition | 1.83% |
| 19 | Semaphore indicator fault | 1.45% |
| 20 | Front lamp not working | 1.35% |
| 21 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 1.35% |
| 22 | Brake fluid leak | 1.24% |
| 23 | Headlamp fault | 1.08% |
| 24 | Track rod end worn | 1.08% |
| 25 | Position lamp not working | 1.02% |
| 26 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.97% |
| 27 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.81% |
| 28 | Front suspension fault | 0.70% |
| 29 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.54% |
| 30 | Parking brake condition | 0.54% |
| 31 | Rear lamp not working | 0.54% |
| 32 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.43% |
| 33 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.43% |
| 34 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.32% |
| 35 | Brake clevis joint worn | 0.32% |
| 36 | Brake pedal fault | 0.32% |
| 37 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.32% |
| 38 | Leaf spring broken or corroded | 0.27% |
| 39 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.27% |
| 40 | Steering column fault | 0.27% |
| 41 | Steering lock fault | 0.27% |
| 42 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.22% |
| 43 | Steering operation fault | 0.22% |
| 44 | Tie bar or rod worn or corroded | 0.22% |
| 45 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 0.22% |
| 46 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.16% |
| 47 | Drag link end worn | 0.16% |
| 48 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.16% |
| 49 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.16% |
| 50 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.16% |
| 51 | Leaf spring shackle bracket corroded | 0.16% |
| 52 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.16% |
| 53 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.16% |
| 54 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.11% |
| 55 | Brake lever fault | 0.11% |
| 56 | Brake pads or linings worn | 0.11% |
| 57 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.11% |
| 58 | Electrical switch fault | 0.11% |
| 59 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.11% |
| 60 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.11% |
| 61 | Rear suspension fault | 0.11% |
| 62 | Speedometer fault | 0.11% |
| 63 | Steering arm worn | 0.11% |
| 64 | Steering box fault | 0.11% |
| 65 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.11% |
| 66 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.11% |
| 67 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.11% |
| 68 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.11% |
| 69 | Steering coupling worn | 0.11% |
| 70 | Anti-roll bar worn or corroded | 0.05% |
| 71 | Body security fault | 0.05% |
| 72 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.05% |
| 73 | Dip switch fault | 0.05% |
| 74 | Driveshaft fault | 0.05% |
| 75 | Exhaust leak | 0.05% |
| 76 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.05% |
| 77 | Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault | 0.05% |
| 78 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | 0.05% |
| 79 | Passenger seat fault | 0.05% |
| 80 | Seat belt condition | 0.05% |
| 81 | Securing bolts missing or insecure | 0.05% |
| 82 | Steering shaft fault | 0.05% |
| 83 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.05% |
| 84 | Vehicle floor corroded | 0.05% |
| 85 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.05% |
Showing all 85 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Mg Magnette MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Mg Magnette, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Mg Magnette problems?
Based on analysis of 4K Mg Magnette MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 1 identified common problems across 2 generations. The most frequently flagged issue is "Windscreen washer not working". Brakes is the most common problem category.
Which Mg Magnette generation has the most problems?
The Mg Magnette ZA/ZB (1953–1958) has the highest number of identified common problems (2). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Mg Magnette?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Mg Magnette owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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