142 / 144 / 145

1966-1974 / Sedan / Estate / Sweden

All 142 / 144 / 145 problems All workshop issues

Minor Brakes

Brake Master Cylinder Failure

Symptoms

Spongy or sinking brake pedal, loss of braking effort, fluid leaking at the back of the master cylinder, brakes locking on (rare).

Cause

Internal seals wear out, allow fluid to bypass the pistons. Corrosion in the bore. Moisture contamination.

Fix

Bench-test the master cylinder by blocking the outlets and pumping the lever, it should hold firm.

If it sinks, rebuild or replace.

Rebuilds are possible but replacement is easier and more reliable.

Use OEM or A

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Other known issues

Common Engine

Oil Leaks from Front and Rear Crankshaft Seals

Persistent weeping or pooling of oil beneath the engine, especially at the front timing cover or rear main seal area. You'll see oil misting onto the bellhousing or dripping from the sump.

Common Engine

Worn Valve Guides and Oil Consumption

Blue smoke on startup or deceleration, fouled spark plugs, rising oil consumption between changes (more than half a litre per 1,000 km).

Common Engine

Carburettor Issues (SU or Zenith-Stromberg)

Rough idle, hesitation, stalling when cold, flat spots under acceleration, poor fuel economy, black exhaust smoke.

Critical Engine

Worn Timing Chain or Belt Tensioner

Rattling or slapping noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup or idle. Loss of power, poor running, or misfires if timing has jumped.

Common Cooling System

Radiator Core Leaks and Corrosion

Coolant dripping from the radiator core, overheating, low coolant level without obvious external leaks, white crusty deposits on the radiator.

Critical Cooling System

Thermostat Stuck Open or Closed

Stuck open: engine never reaches normal operating temperature (gauge sits low), poor heater output, high fuel consumption. Stuck closed: rapid overheating, gauge in the red, coolant boiling over.

View all 21 142 / 144 / 145 problems