MG TF (2005)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 2,127 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£1,957
£163/month
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Average
Road Tax
£265
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 12-25
1589cc Petrol
Check Carefully
79% pass rate, £1957/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~42 mpg
Based on 1589cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 21 years old, 79% of MG TFs from 2005 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 2,127 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 54,989 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
54,989
Average miles
155,400
Expected for age
The average 2005 MG TF has 54,989 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2011 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 76%. The 2005 sits between the two at 79%.
MG TF by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2005 MG TF
The 2005 MG TF is a small family car with a 1589cc petrol engine. 2,127 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2005, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 54,989 miles at 21 years old, MG TF owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2005 MG TF Fuel Costs
The 1589cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2005 MG TF?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,957 (£163/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £265 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MG TF Reliability Trend
Newer MG TFs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2005 MG TF
At 21 years old, the MG TF is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2011 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2005 MG TF's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2005 MG TF stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG TF(2005) | 79% | £1137 | £265 | Grp 12-25 | £1957 |
| FORD FOCUS(2007) | 73% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£130 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(2007) | 80% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1867-£90 |
| MINI MINI(2007) | 73% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£130 |
| RENAULT CLIO(2007) | 68% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £2217+£260 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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