MG TF Common Problems and Solutions
Overheating Engine (1.8-Ltr Models)
Problem:
The engine has begun to overheat even after short drives. There might be white smoke emerging from the exhaust, and there is slimy white gunk around the oil filler cap.
Solution:
The engine on the MF TF is well known for its durability, but on 1.8-litre models, the head gasket can occasionally blow long before expected. Replacing a blown head gasket is easier than you might think, and there are plenty of online guides available. Order a new head gasket from our parts list for quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Head Gasket Set
All Windscreen Wipers Have Stopped
Problem:
Both your front windscreen wipers and rear one have stopped working simultaneously.
Solution:
The front and rear windscreen wipers on the TF are operated by a single wiper motor. If you can hear the motor working, but the wiper blades aren’t moving, then the ball joints on the two link bars that connect the wipers have become worn. You can find new ball joints in our spare parts store easily, and delivery is always quick as we keep them in stock. If you can’t hear the motor whirring, then this indicates a simple motor replacement is needed.
Difficulty level
Squealing Sound When Engine Runs
Problem:
You can hear a loud squealing noise when the engine is running.
Solution:
The auxiliary drive belt on the TF has an alternator fixed with an 8mm adjuster bolt, which is prone to seizing or snapping. This usually occurs if it hasn’t been lubricated enough. You’ll need to remove the engine cover and then undo the alternator's mounting bolts. Try spraying some lubricating fluid to see if this resolves the problem, but in most cases, you will have to order and fit a new alternator bolt from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Stuck Handbrake
Problem:
The handbrake is jammed on and won’t release.
Solution:
This usually occurs if the handbrake is left on for a long time. It’s often caused by broken rear callipers, which you can find on our parts pages.
Difficulty level
Brake Caliper
Stiff Clutch
Problem:
The clutch feels very stiff when pressed.
Solution:
Not very common on the TF, but if you do experience a stiff clutch, the most reported cause is a seized operating arm. This is a fairly simple replacement job, but you'll need to remove the gearbox to access the part. Find a new operating arm using our parts list and watch some video tutorials to ensure you know what to do.
Difficulty level
Excessive Handbrake Travel
Problem:
You need to pull the handbrake higher and higher until it bites.
Solution:
In most cases, this is caused by seized linkages on the rear brakes. It’s a ten-minute replacement job, and new linkages are available in our online store.
Difficulty level
Heater Fan Malfunction
Problem:
The cab's heater fan has stopped working or might only blow cold air. It may operate well on some settings but not at all on others.
Solution:
This is probably a worn-out heater resistor. A fiddly task to do yourself but not as difficult as you might think. Check our parts list for a new resistor and save money by doing it yourself.
Difficulty level
Heater Resistor
Long Braking Distances
Problem:
The car is taking longer to stop.
Solution:
The MG TF tends to wear through brake pads and brake discs more quickly than most drivers expect. The good news is that replacing both pads and discs on the TF is very straightforward and manageable for most people. Take a look at our parts page for the TF and order with quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Loose Gearstick
Problem:
The gear stick feels wobbly and unsecure. Engaging gear has become imprecise.
Solution:
You have worn out gear joints, and they will need to be replaced. This can be a fiddly and time-consuming job, but as a garage will charge a fortune to do it, ordering low-cost joints from Breakeryard is the budget-friendly option. In most cases, it will be simpler to order a completely new gearbox unit and replace the entire thing.
Difficulty level
Soft top problems
Problem:
Does the window fit snugly into the hood, or does it lip out at the top? If it lips out, this is usually caused by a broken plastic clip inside the door, which means that the window is not sitting correctly. If this is the case, water will leak into the cabin.
Solution:
You will need to replace the faulty plastic clip to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Water leak into boot
Problem:
Have you noticed water leaking into the boot? Are the boot carpets wet or damp? If so, there is a foam gasket around the rear lights, which is known to fail on the TF.
Solution:
You will need to replace this foam gasket to stop the leak. You should also ensure that the carpets are thoroughly dried to prevent dampness from developing.
Difficulty level
Rusty coolant pipes
Problem:
The coolant pipes are prone to rusting. These pipes run underneath the car from front to back and are most susceptible to rust around the brackets. If the pipes rust through, you will lose the coolant, which can cause the engine to overheat and damage parts such as the cylinder head gasket.
Solution:
You will need to replace the coolant pipes to resolve the issue and top up the coolant.
Difficulty level
Coolant Pipe
Noisy exhaust
Problem:
Is the exhaust sound extremely loud? If so, the most common part to fail on the exhaust system is the flexible-exhaust joint. You will hear the loud exhaust noise mainly when starting the car, and it will originate from around the middle of the vehicle.
Solution:
If the flexi-exhaust joint is causing the noise, then you will need to replace it. We can help you find replacement exhaust parts at very low prices.
Difficulty level