Generations
MK4 — MG Midget 1500 (Mark IV)
1974–1980
1.5L A-Series
Top issues to watch for
The most serious MG Midget 1500 problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Subframe mounting point corrosion (MK4)
The rear subframe mounting points in the body structure are prone to corrosion that can compromise structural integrity. This affects the mounting points where the rear suspension, differential, and rear axle assembly attach to the main body shell. The 1500 model uses a different subframe design from earlier Midgets, with specific stress concentration points that corrode preferentially.
What happens if ignoredFailure of subframe mounting points can cause loss of vehicle control, particularly under braking or cornering. The rear axle assembly may shift position or in extreme cases detach from the body. Professional welding repair is typically required and costs vary widely depending on the extent of corrosion. Cars with advanced corrosion may be beyond economic repair.
Independent garage
£800–£2,000
Specialist
£1,200–£3,000
Parts only
£100–£400
Major
Excessive emissions due to carburetor wear (MK4)
The 1500 Midget uses twin SU HS4 carburettors that wear over time, causing fuel mixture problems that result in excessive emissions. The carburetor needle seats, throttle spindles, and mixture adjustment mechanisms wear with age, making it impossible to achieve correct fuelling across the rev range. Modern MOT emissions limits are challenging for 1970s carburetor technology even when perfectly set up.
What happens if ignoredThe car will fail its MOT emissions test and cannot be legally driven on public roads until repaired. Carburetor rebuild or replacement is typically required. Poor mixture can cause engine damage through lean running or bore washing from over-rich conditions. Running costs increase due to poor fuel economy and potential catalyst damage if fitted.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£200–£500
Major
Wheel bearing wear and failure (MK4)
The Midget 1500 uses wire wheels with knock-off hubs that place different loads on the wheel bearings compared to conventional steel wheels. MOT data shows wheel bearing failures at over 30 times the national fleet average, particularly affecting low-mileage examples where cars may sit unused for extended periods allowing bearing grease to deteriorate. The splined drive system and relatively small bearing size for the vehicle weight contribute to premature wear. Regular use and proper maintenance are essential for bearing longevity.
What happens if ignoredWorn wheel bearings can cause wheel wobble, poor handling, and in extreme cases wheel detachment. The splined hub system means bearing failure can damage expensive wire wheels and hub assemblies. Early detection and replacement prevents secondary damage to wheel and suspension components.
Independent garage
£150–£300
Specialist
£200–£400
Parts only
£50–£120
Major
Sill corrosion (MK4)
The Midget's steel monocoque construction is particularly vulnerable to sill corrosion due to the design's low ground clearance and tendency for debris and moisture to collect in the box-section sills. The 1974-1980 model uses different steel specifications from earlier cars and has specific corrosion patterns around the jacking points and door frame attachments. Sill corrosion often starts from the inside and may not be visible externally until structural integrity is compromised. This is a critical structural area that affects the car's rigidity and safety.
What happens if ignoredSill corrosion compromises the structural rigidity of the car and can affect crashworthiness. Severe corrosion may cause door alignment problems, difficulty closing doors, or visible sagging of the body structure. Professional structural welding is required for repair, and costs vary significantly depending on the extent of corrosion. Cars with extensive sill damage may be beyond economic repair.
Independent garage
£600–£1,500
Specialist
£800–£2,500
Parts only
£100–£300
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a specific car →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the MG Midget 1500 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 766x the fleet average
Sample: 149 tests
Coil springs broken
Suspension · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 289x the fleet average
Sample: 168 tests
Suspension pin, bush or joint worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 222x the fleet average
Sample: 194 tests
Fluid leak
Exhaust & Emissions · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 56x the fleet average
Sample: 193 tests
Wheel bearings worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 31x the fleet average
Sample: 466 tests
Light unit fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 212 tests
Buying a MG Midget 1500?
Check a specific car's service history to see if it's been looked after — franchised dealer records with dates, mileage, and work done.
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Related
MG Midget 1500 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the MG Midget 1500?
The MG Midget 1500 has 5 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Subframe mounting point corrosion (MK4).
Is the MG Midget 1500 reliable?
The MG Midget 1500 has 1 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 1500 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Subframe mounting point corrosion (MK4)) costs £800–£2,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.