MG TF (2009)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 492 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,047
£171/month
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Good
Road Tax
£315
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1796cc Petrol
Solid Option
82% pass rate, £2047/year to run. Close to the national average.
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Annual Running Costs
~36 mpg
Based on 1796cc
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
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 17 years old, 82% of MG TFs from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 492 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 44,280 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
44,280
Average miles
125,800
Expected for age
The average 2009 MG TF has 44,280 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 125,800 miles for a 17-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 2009 sits between the two at 82%.
MG TF by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2009 MG TF
The 2009 MG TF is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 492 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 44,280 miles at 17 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.
2009 MG TF Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2009 MG TF?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,047 (£171/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £315 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% 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 2009 MG TF
At 17 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 2009 MG TF's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 17 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
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 2009 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(2009) | 82% | £1327 | £315 | Grp 18-32 | £2047 |
| FORD FOCUS(2011) | 75% | £1137 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1827-£220 |
| VAUXHALL CORSA(2011) | 75% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£325 |
| FORD FIESTA(2008) | 72% | £1137 | £30 | Grp 8-20 | £1722-£325 |
| NISSAN QASHQAI(2011) | 69% | £1327 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £2217+£170 |
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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