Generations
G2 — Second Generation
2016–2022
2.2 Diesel
Top issues to watch for
The most serious SsangYong Musso problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Parking brake system failure (G2)
MOT statistics show systematic parking brake failures across multiple defect categories, with this model failing at up to 81.4 times the national average. Failures include complete inoperative operation on one side, efficiency below minimum requirements, and excessive lever movement indicating adjustment problems. The pattern affects cars from 20,000 miles onwards across all mileage bands, suggesting fundamental design or material quality issues with the parking brake system.
What happens if ignoredParking brake failure presents a direct safety risk. The vehicle may not hold on inclines and could roll away when parked. This defect will cause an immediate MOT failure. Complete system repair or replacement is typically required.
Independent garage
£200–£500
Specialist
£250–£600
Main dealer
£400–£900
Parts only
£80–£250
Dangerous
Steering ball joint premature wear (G2)
MOT data shows steering ball joints developing excessive wear or free play at 16.2 times the national fleet average, with failures recorded from 20,000 miles onwards. This premature wear pattern indicates potential issues with component quality, lubrication, or protection from road contamination. Ball joint failure directly affects steering precision and vehicle control.
What happens if ignoredWorn steering ball joints create dangerous loss of steering precision and control. Complete failure can result in total loss of steering. The vehicle becomes unsafe to drive and will fail MOT inspection. Immediate replacement is required.
Independent garage
£150–£350
Specialist
£200–£400
Main dealer
£300–£600
Parts only
£50–£150
Major
Transmission drive belt or chain excessive wear (G2)
MOT data shows this model fails transmission drive component inspections at 218.5 times the national fleet average, with failures concentrated between 40,000-60,000 miles on the 2.2 diesel engine. The failures relate to transmission joints, belts or chains showing excessive wear beyond acceptable limits. This could indicate premature wear of CV joints, drive belts, or timing components within the transmission system. The failure pattern suggests a design weakness rather than normal wear.
What happens if ignoredExcessive wear in transmission drive components can lead to complete failure of power transmission to the wheels. CV joint failure makes the vehicle immobile. Repair typically requires replacement of worn components and may involve transmission removal for access.
Independent garage
£300–£800
Specialist
£400–£1,000
Main dealer
£600–£1,400
Parts only
£150–£450
Major
Suspension spring fracture (G2)
MOT evidence shows suspension springs fracturing or becoming seriously weakened at 13.7 times the fleet average, with failures occurring from very low mileages including the 0-20,000 mile band. This pattern suggests material quality issues rather than normal fatigue failure, as springs should not fail at such low mileages under normal use.
What happens if ignoredFractured suspension springs cause dangerous handling characteristics, excessive tyre wear, and potential damage to other suspension components. The vehicle may bottom out over bumps, striking the road surface. Immediate replacement prevents damage to dampers and other components.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£350–£700
Parts only
£80–£200
1 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 SsangYong Musso fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a m...
Lights & Electrics · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 402x the fleet average
Sample: 282 tests
Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 219x the fleet average
Sample: 1,883 tests
Parking brake inoperative on one side
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 81x the fleet average
Sample: 2,914 tests
Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the r...
Brakes · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 51x the fleet average
Sample: 2,657 tests
Reflector defective or damaged by up to 50% of ...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 27x the fleet average
Sample: 2,006 tests
Obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 23x the fleet average
Sample: 2,914 tests
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Related
SsangYong Musso reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the SsangYong Musso?
The SsangYong Musso has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most serious are: Parking brake system failure (G2), Steering ball joint premature wear (G2).
Is the SsangYong Musso reliable?
The SsangYong Musso 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 SsangYong Musso problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Parking brake system failure (G2)) costs £200–£500 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.