Midget

1961-1979 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All Midget problems All workshop problems

Minor Brakes

Brake Master Cylinder and Wheel Cylinder Corrosion

Symptoms

Spongy brake pedal, fluid leaks visible at the wheel cylinders or under the dashboard. One wheel may lock or drag. Fluid on the rear drums.

Cause

Brake fluid absorbs moisture, which corrodes the bore of the master cylinder and wheel cylinders from within. Cars that sit for long periods are particularly susceptible -- the pistons seize in the corroded bore.

Fix

Replace the master cylinder ($50--100), rear wheel cylinders ($25--50 each), and all rubber brake hoses.

Flush the entire system with fresh DOT 4 fluid.

A complete brake overhaul including new shoes and hoses: $200--400 DIY, $500--1,000 at a workshop.

Cost mentioned in fix

$50$25$200$500

Know something we don't?

Owned a MG Midget? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update

// More Midget problems

Other known issues

Critical Brakes

Clutch Hydraulic Failure

The clutch pedal drops to the floor with no resistance. The car won't go into gear with the engine running. Fluid visible on the carpet or bellhousing.

Minor Body and Structure

Sill Corrosion

The outer sill skin softens, bubbles, and crumbles. When prodded, it offers no resistance. In severe cases, the door drops when opened because the inner sill has lost its structural integrity.

Critical Body and Structure

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or perforated floors, particularly in the footwells. Wet carpets after rain. In extreme cases, visible road surface through the floor.

Minor Body and Structure

Rear Spring Hanger Deterioration

The rear leaf spring mounting points crack, distort, or tear away from the body under load.

Minor Body and Structure

Inner Wing and Suspension Turret Corrosion

The inner front wings around the front suspension top mounts corrode and thin.

Minor Engine -- A-Series (948, 1098, 1275)

Thrust Washer Wear (Crankshaft End-Float)

A metallic knocking or clunking noise from the front of the engine, particularly when the clutch is depressed or released. The clutch may feel different -- pedal travel changes, engagement point shifts.

All Midget problems