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MOTRS

MGA

1955-1962 / Roadster / Coupe / United Kingdom

All MGA problems All workshop issues
Common Rust

Floor Pan Corrosion

Symptoms

Soft or perforated metal in the floor pans, visible from underneath. Water may pool in the footwells. The floor may flex under foot pressure.

Cause

Water enters through deteriorated body seals, leaking weather equipment, and condensation. The flat floor pans offer no drainage, so water sits and rusts through the steel.

Fix

Cut out corroded sections and weld in repair panels.

Complete floor pan assemblies are available.

Cost: $300-$600 per side for panels, plus fitting.

Cost mentioned in fix
Cost: $300-$600 per side

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// More MGA problems

Other known issues

Minor Rust

Sill (Rocker Panel) Corrosion

The sills become soft, bubbly, or perforated. The body may flex excessively when jacked up or driven over bumps. Doors may not shut properly as the body distorts.
Minor Rust

Front Crossmember Corrosion

Visible rust, scaling, or perforation of the front crossmember (visible from underneath the front of the car).
Minor Rust

Rear Spring Hanger Corrosion

The rear spring mounting points show rust, cracking, or distortion. The rear of the car may sit unevenly or make clunking noises.
Critical Engine, BMC B-Series (1,489cc / 1,588cc)

Oil Leaks

Oil weeps from the rocker cover gasket, timing cover, rear main seal, and sump gasket. A layer of oil covers the engine and transmission.
Common Engine, BMC B-Series (1,489cc / 1,588cc)

Carburettor Wear (SU H4)

Rough idle, poor fuel economy, hesitation on acceleration, black smoke from the exhaust. The engine may run rich or lean depending on which component has worn.
Critical Engine, BMC B-Series (1,489cc / 1,588cc)

Head Gasket Failure

Coolant loss without visible external leak. White smoke from the exhaust. Milky emulsion under the oil filler cap. Overheating. Bubbles in the header tank.
View all 16 MGA problems