2004 MG TF 135 review from UK and Ireland

On th day of delivery the paint was marked, the clock was not set, the plastc rear window was foggy, the roof did not fit, but we were assured that this was normal. The suspension clonked badly, but we are told this too is normal.

On the second day of ownership the car refused to start, the AA diagnosed a loose earth cable and poorly connected starter motor. Whilst washing the car we discover rust in the front cargo hold.

Day three, the speedometer failed, the AA found the cable had fallen out.

Day four, returned to the dealer for checks, nothing wrong was found, car was collected.

Day six, alarm went off whilst locked in the garage, deadlocking the doors. The AA were called again and freed the locks.

Day twelve, ownership over, the car was rejected.

We have owned German cars for the last 15 years and have never had a fault.

We felt that we should support the British car industry and so when we decided to buy a roadster, the MG seemed the ideal choice. It was fun to drive despite a very stubborn gearbox.

The dealer was very good when we had trouble and when we decided to swap the car, he was more than happy to oblige, however when we asked him to guarantee that the new car wouldn't be plagued with faults he couldn't so they bought the car back.

There is a happy end to this tale. This Saturday our new Mercedes SLK arrived and so far is faultless, more expensive, but just better.