MG Metro and Metro Turbo (1982 - 1990)

Last updated 27 November 2018

Buying Guide

Bodywork

• Check everywhere for rust
• Inner and outer front and rear valances.
• Front panel behind the headlamps.
• Front wings, behind the headlamps, and in front of the A-pillars.
• Rear wheelarches.
• Door bottoms, particularly the rear doors on 5 door models.
• Outer sills along their entire length.
• Rear heelboard, where the rear subframe mounts to it.

Engine & Gearbox

• Check for oil leaks
• Head gasket failure (overheating, signs of oil and water mixing in the coolant)
• Cold starting problems caused by damp
• Transmission whine in first is fairly common
• If it jumps out of second gear, this can be caused by worn synchromesh rings.

Suspension, Steering & Brakes

• Check for fluid leaks at all the pipe connections.
• Make sure ride height is correct and even.
• Inspect  the upper and lower front balljoints for wear, and also the rear radius arms.
• Metric ‘TD’ tyres fitted can be relatively expensive to renew.

Electrics & Trim

• Seat upholstery can wear well.
• Bases aren't very robust and can sag.
• Smaller trim pieces can be very brittle.
• Eletrics are reliable - but check everything works.