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MG Midget Problems & Known Issues

The most common MG Midget problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

MkI-III — Mk I-III (1275cc)
1961–1979
A-Series 1275
MkIV — Mk IV (1500cc)
1974–1979
Triumph 1500

Top issues to watch for

The most serious MG Midget problems ranked by severity. We track 7 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Floor pan rust
MkI-III, MkIV12G, 15V1961–1979
The floor pans on MG Midgets are notorious for severe corrosion due to the single-skin steel construction and poor drainage design. Water collects in the footwells and around the seat mounting points, causing structural rust that compromises the integrity of the monocoque chassis. This is the primary MOT failure point on these cars and affects virtually all surviving examples to some degree. Unlike body panel rust, floor pan corrosion directly affects structural safety and can render the car dangerous to drive.
What happens if ignoredSevere floor pan rust compromises the structural integrity of the monocoque chassis and creates an immediate MOT failure. In extreme cases, the pedal mounting points or seat anchors can detach from the structure. Professional floor pan replacement requires chassis jig work and typically costs more than the car's market value.
Independent garage
£400–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£400
Dangerous
Sill corrosion
MkI-III, MkIV12G, 15V1961–1979
The door sills and A-post junctions on MG Midgets are critical structural components that commonly suffer severe corrosion. These areas are load-bearing parts of the monocoque chassis that support the door hinges and contribute to overall body rigidity. Sill corrosion is often hidden behind plastic covers or underseal and can compromise the structural integrity of the entire car.
What happens if ignoredStructural sill corrosion creates an immediate MOT failure and compromises the safety of the vehicle's occupants in a collision. Professional sill replacement requires specialist welding and often costs more than the car's market value.
Independent garage
£600–£1,500
Specialist
£800–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£500
Major
King pin wear
MkI-III, MkIV12G, 15V1961–1979
MG Midgets use king pin front suspension instead of modern ball joints, with steel pins that pivot in bronze bushes. The king pins and bushes wear over time, creating play that causes steering wander and imprecise handling. This wear pattern is universal on these cars due to the design age and limited lubrication points. Unlike modern suspension components, king pin assemblies require specialist knowledge to service and adjust properly.
What happens if ignoredWorn king pins cause steering wander, imprecise handling, and uneven tyre wear. In severe cases, the suspension geometry becomes unstable and the car may pull unexpectedly under braking or acceleration. King pin overhaul requires specialist tools and knowledge.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£500
Parts only
£80–£150
Major
Wheel bearing wear
MkI-III, MkIV12G, 15V1961–19790k–120k miles
Wire wheel MG Midgets use tapered roller bearings in the front hubs that require regular adjustment and periodic repacking with grease. These bearings develop excessive play when the adjustment nut works loose or when the bearing races wear. The problem is particularly prevalent on cars with wire wheels due to the additional stress from the splined hub design.
What happens if ignoredExcessive bearing play affects steering precision and can cause dangerous wheel detachment in extreme cases. Worn bearings generate heat that can damage the hub casting and require more extensive repairs.
Independent garage
£120–£250
Specialist
£150–£300
Parts only
£40–£80

3 more known issues tracked

Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.

MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the MG Midget fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Coil springs broken
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 149x the fleet average
Sample: 730 tests
Suspension pin, bush or joint worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 77x the fleet average
Sample: 381 tests
Stop lamps all missing or inoperative
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 45x the fleet average
Sample: 540 tests
Electrical wiring fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 43x the fleet average
Sample: 558 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 43x the fleet average
Sample: 692 tests
Brakes imbalance across an axle
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 27x the fleet average
Sample: 228 tests

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Related

MG Midget reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the MG Midget?

The MG Midget has 7 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Floor pan rust, Sill corrosion.

Is the MG Midget reliable?

The MG Midget has 2 dangerous and 3 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.

How much does it cost to fix MG Midget problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Floor pan rust) costs £400–£1,200 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which MG Midget generation is most reliable?

The MkI-III (1961–1979) has the fewest dangerous issues (2). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.