MG brand mark

2017–2025 MG ZS · common problems & known faults

A value-led compact SUV that has taken serious UK market share. Petrol and EV versions need very different checks.

Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026

Quick answer

The most commonly reported faults on the 2017–2025 MG ZS are EV battery health and charge-rate variation, Infotainment freezing and software glitches and Bush and damper wear on poor road surfaces. 1 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.

Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact MG ZS · $9.

Build the inspection plan

Reliability snapshot

Based on the documented faults on this page for the MG ZS.

5.7/ 10
Mixed
Critical
0
High
1
Medium
5
Low
2

Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.

Known faults to check

BatteryHigh

EV battery health and charge-rate variation

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Run a state-of-health check and test a rapid charge
ElectricalMedium

Infotainment freezing and software glitches

Typically appears
Any
What to inspect
Cycle every function and confirm software updates are applied

Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact MG ZS · $9.

Build the inspection plan
SuspensionMedium

Bush and damper wear on poor road surfaces

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Listen over broken tarmac
BodyLow

Paint quality and trim fit on earlier cars

Typically appears
Age-related
What to inspect
Inspect panel finish and shut lines in daylight
TransmissionMedium

Jerky gear shifts and low-speed hesitation on 1.0T automatic models

Typically appears
30,000-50,000 miles
What to inspect
Select Drive and Reverse repeatedly on a flat surface to feel for excessive engagement delay, then perform a slow-speed crawl test to check for clutch judder.
BrakesMedium

Severe pitting and corrosion on rear brake discs on EV models

Typically appears
3-4 years or 20,000-40,000 miles
What to inspect
Visually inspect the rear brake discs through the alloy wheel spokes. Look for heavy rust scoring or a pronounced lip caused by underuse due to regenerative braking.
Climate ControlMedium

Air conditioning blowing warm due to condenser stone damage

Typically appears
2-5 years
What to inspect
Set the climate control to maximum cold. Ice-cold air should blow from the vents within 60 seconds. Shine a torch through the lower front grille to check the condenser for impact damage or oily residue.
ExteriorLow

Front charging port door sticking or failing to latch on EV models

Typically appears
20,000-40,000 miles
What to inspect
Press the MG badge on the front grille to release the charge port door. Ensure it springs open smoothly and clicks securely shut without requiring excessive force.

Inspecting a MG ZS?

Build a tickable plan for the viewing · where to look, what a bad result means and what to ask the seller. One-off price $9.

Build my inspection plan

Frequently asked questions

Does the MG warranty help resale?

Yes. The long transferable warranty is one of the main reasons buyers choose these cars used.

Which sells faster, petrol or EV?

The EV to home-charging buyers, the petrol to budget-focused families.

What should I check on the EV?

Battery state of health, both charging cables and the rapid charge rate.

Do the 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrol engines use a timing belt or a chain?

Both the 1.0-litre turbocharged and 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engines utilise a timing chain rather than a cambelt. This reduces scheduled maintenance costs for the buyer, but you must ensure the vehicle has a strict oil change history to prevent premature chain stretch and hydraulic tensioner failure.

Are there any specific servicing requirements for the EV reduction gear?

Yes, the ZS EV requires a reduction gear fluid change. For UK models, this is typically scheduled at 50,000 miles or five years, whichever comes first. Always check the service book for this specific stamp, as neglecting this fluid replacement can lead to bearing whine and potentially void the drivetrain warranty.

What is the difference in battery sizes between the Mk1 and facelift ZS EV?

The pre-facelift ZS EV (2019-2021) uses a 44.5kWh battery offering a 163-mile WLTP range. The facelifted version (late 2021 onwards) replaced this with a 51.1kWh standard range model (198 miles) and a 72.6kWh long-range variant (273 miles). Always verify the exact battery specification via the V5C before advertising.

Sources & further reading

Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.

Buying a MG ZS?

Build the plan