ROVER 45 (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 702 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
70%
Total Tests (2024)
702
Avg Mileage
79,274 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2002 ROVER 45 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 12 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the ROVER brand average of 74%.
At 22 years old, 70% of ROVER 45s from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 702 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 79,274 miles.
How does the 2002 ROVER 45 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 ROVER 45 has 79,274 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a ROVER 45?
The most reliable year is the 2004 model with a 72% MOT pass rate, while the 2000 model has the lowest at 65%. The 2002 sits between the two at 70%.
How much does a 2002 ROVER 45 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
ROVER 45 by Year
Checking a specific ROVER 45?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 ROVER 45
The 2002 ROVER 45 is a small family car with a 1588cc petrol engine. 702 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 79,274 miles at 22 years old, ROVER 45 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.
2002 ROVER 45 Fuel Costs
The 1588cc 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 2002 ROVER 45?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 70% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
ROVER 45 Reliability Trend
The ROVER 45 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 ROVER 45
At 22 years old, the ROVER 45 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 2004 model has the highest pass rate at 72%.
Alternatives to the 2002 ROVER 45
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2004) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 36,444 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2004) 69% pass rate (-1%) from 29,927 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (+1%) from 29,898 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2004) 67% pass rate (-3%) from 26,290 tests