MG ZT Common Problems and Solutions
Airbag Warning Light
Problem:
Your airbag warning light has turned on.
Solution:
If you don't resolve this issue, then you're going to fail your next MOT. However, it's likely that you can sort this problem out by simply wiggling some of the airbag wires, which are often loose. If that doesn't solve the problem, then you need a full diagnostic check.
Difficulty level
Knocking Sound on Idle
Problem:
There is a knocking sound coming from the engine when you start from cold and a vehicle judder when you take off.
Solution:
The dual-mass flywheel (DMF) on the ZT is a bit of a weak spot and will need to be replaced more often than you get with other cars. Installing a new DMF is fairly easy, and you can have a replacement delivered when you order from us.
Difficulty level
Dual Mass Flywheel
Engine Hesitation
Problem:
The engine has started to hesitate when you apply the accelerator.
Solution:
The most common reason for a hesitant engine on the ZT is a broken ECU. It will need to be replaced, which a garage will charge an absolute fortune for. You can save a lot of cash by ordering a new ECU from our parts page and watching a few online tutorials that will show the exact steps to take.
Difficulty level
ECU
No Lights on Registration Plate (MKII ZT)
Problem:
The small lights that illuminate your rear registration plate are not working.
Solution:
This is extremely common on MKII models simply because the light fitting is very cheaply made. You'll need to replace the bulb holder and the circuit, which you can order as a kit from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Sloshing Water Sound When Turning
Problem:
You can hear the sound of sloshing water whenever you take a corner.
Solution:
This is a simple matter of your plenum drains flooding. You should get into the habit of cleaning these out regularly because if you ignore it, the water will get into your ECU and cause massive damage.
Difficulty level
Rattle from Engine
Problem:
You can hear a slight rattling sound coming from the engine when driving. It may idle roughly, and the check engine light may come on.
Solution:
A known issue for the ZT, the variable intake valves are very prone to damage. When they crack or break, it leads to a cascade of engine faults. The good news is that they are a very easy part to install and very inexpensive when you buy direct from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Inlet Valve
Hard Gear Changes
Problem:
It is getting harder to change gears, and the gear stick feels very stiff.
Solution:
This is usually a faulty clutch master-slave cylinder, and it will need to be replaced. Have a look at our parts page for the ZT and order a new cylinder for delivery.
Difficulty level
Clutch Master Cylinder
Slow Braking
Problem:
The car is taking longer to come to a stop, and you have to apply more pressure to the brake pedal.
Solution:
This could be nothing more than worn brake pads and damaged brake discs. Unfortunately, the ZT is prone to rust issues on the brake pipes, which could be the cause of a drop in brake performance. We always have brake pipes available for quick delivery, and they are easy to install if you can get under the car.
Difficulty level
Blown Head Gasket (1.8-Ltr)
Problem:
Your head gasket has blown, leading to overheating and sludge in your oil.
Solution:
This is caused by a lack of coolant, which is very easy to do on the ZT because it's extremely thirsty. If you don't keep your coolant levels topped up, then your head gasket will crack, and you'll need to order a new one from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Head Gasket Set
Vehicle Sag
Problem:
The car is sagging on one side at the front. You may hear a squeaking sound when driving over speed bumps.
Solution:
The front coil springs on the ZT are very prone to severe corrosion, and they will break if left untreated. Install new springs easily with new ones from our parts page for the MG ZT.
Difficulty level
Coil Spring
Suspension knocking noise
Problem:
The lower ball joints are known for failing on the ZT. If you have noticed that there is a knocking noise coming from the front suspension, as you drive over speed bumps or poorly surfaced roads, then you will need to replace the lower ball joints.
Solution:
As mentioned above, you will need to replace the lower ball joints to rectify the issue. We can help you to find a replacement lower ball joint, at a very low price.
Difficulty level
Ball Joint
Front footwells leaking water
Problem:
Are you having problems with the front foot wells leaking in water? If so, this is usually caused by a blocked drain in the scuttle panel. This drain is located below the front windscreen and if it becomes blocked, the water leaks into the front foot wells, particularly the front left corner. The drain becomes blocked up with leaves and debris.
Solution:
You will need to unblock the scuttle panel drain to stop the leak. Watch the video below for an idea on how to clear this drain:
Difficulty level
Windscreen Scuttle Panel
ABS warning light
Problem:
If you have found that an ABS warning light has appeared on the dashboard, it is usually caused by one of the ABS sensor wires chaffing.
Solution:
You will need to run a diagnostic check to identify which wheel the problem sensor is on. Once identified, and if it is just a chaffed wire, you can fix the wiring on the sensor to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Engine idling problems
Problem:
Is the engine on your ZT idling very erratically and/or misfiring? Are you having problems starting the car? If yes to one, or both of these questions, it is most likely caused by a faulty sensor. The most common sensors to cause this issue are faulty lambda sensors and/or cam sensor problems.
Solution:
You best option is to run a diagnostic check, so as to correctly identify exactly which sensor is causing the fault. Once you have identified if it is the cam, or lambda sensor at fault, you will need to replace that sensor to sort the issue.
Difficulty level