MGA

1955-1962 / Roadster / Coupe / United Kingdom

Minor Rust

Sill (Rocker Panel) Corrosion

Symptoms

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.

Cause

The MGA's sills are box-section steel that traps moisture from road spray, condensation, and water ingress through the body seams. Rust starts inside and works outward, by the time it's visible on the surface, the internal structure is compromised. Blocked drain holes accelerate the problem.

Fix

Cut out the corroded section and weld in a repair panel (or a complete replacement sill).

The sills are structural, so the repair must be done properly, pop-riveted patches and filler are not acceptable.

Repair panels are available from Moss Motors, SC Parts, and other suppliers.

Cost: $500-$1,500 per side for supply and professional fitting.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $500-$1,500 per side

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// More MGA problems

Other known issues

Common Rust

Floor Pan Corrosion

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

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