Rover Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Rover cars?

Our database covers 14 Rover models and 70 documented faults across the range. Of these, 28 are classified as dangerous and a further 30 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Rover models fail at an average rate of 29.5%, which is above the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The 25 is the strongest performer at just 26.1%, while the Cityrover has the highest failure rate at 34.3%.

If you are considering a used Rover, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are body & rust and brakes, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Rover reliability summary

Where Rover problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Rover's 70 known issues break down by area.

Body & Rust problems dominate, accounting for 22 of the 70 faults we track (31%). Issues in this area include Subframe mounting point corrosion and Bodyshell structural corrosion. The most affected models are the 25 (2), the 45 (2), the 111 (2).

Brakes is the next most common area, with 13 documented faults (19%). Common faults here include Brake system efficiency failure and Brake pipe corrosion. The most affected models are the 111 (2), the 114 (2), the Cityrover (2).

We also track 10 suspension faults across the range (14%). Problems to watch for include Front suspension ball joint and bush wear and Suspension component wear (R8). The most affected models are the Cityrover (2), the 45 (1), the 75 (1).

Transmission rounds out the top problem areas with 8 known issues (11%). Notable issues include CV joint boot deterioration and failure and CV joint boot deterioration. The most affected models are the 25 (1), the 45 (1), the 216 (1).

Known Rover faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Rover range

The most common and severe problems found across all Rover models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Rover model

We track faults across 14 Rover models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Rover

Every used Rover deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since body & rust faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 28 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Subframe mounting point corrosion, Bodyshell structural corrosion, Brake system efficiency failure. Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Rover has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 29.5% average failure rate across the Rover range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Rover repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Rover repair costs between £397 and £927 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £4,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Rover repair in our database is Bodyshell structural corrosion, costing £1,500–£4,000 at an independent specialist.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.