MG TF (2002–2011)SuspensionShock absorbers and top mountsControl arms, ball joints, bushes and drop links
Suspension knocks from shock absorbers and bushes in the MG TF
Parkers warns that, although better than the MGF with Hydragas, the MG TF can have worn shock absorbers and bushes that cause knocks and creaks on uneven roads.[1]
Why this rating?
Low severity: A nuisance or wear. It does not immobilise the car or damage other parts.
Frequency occasional: Parkers lists it among the known faults; it is normal wear with age.[1]
Symptoms
- Knocks and creaks over potholes.[1]Suspension knocks: other faults that cause it · Garage soon
Why it happens
Wear of shock absorbers and bushes.[1]
Affected years and cars
How much it costs to repair
Includes: Parts and labour for the repair.[1]
No prices published.
Prices in Spain, including VAT. A workshop hour costs on average €38–66 at independent garages and €77–134 at dealerships in Spain, depending on the region and the brand. How we calculate costs
How to check for it before buying a used car
- Listen for knocks and creaks on a rough road.[1]
Parts needed
The part or kit that fixes this fault, according to the sources.
Front and rear shock absorbers[1]
Control the TF's steel springs.
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Recalls, campaigns and claims
As of 29 October 2026, we have no record of recalls, campaigns or extended manufacturer warranties for this fault. Check with an official dealer using the chassis (VIN) number: they will tell you whether the car has any outstanding campaign.
What owners say
Frequently asked questions
Is the TF's suspension better than the MGF's?
Parkers says the TF suffers less than the MGF with Hydragas, although it is not free of knocks.[1]
What can you do now?
We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.
Other faults of the MG TF
- Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalBodywork and interiorRust on the subframe, sills and wheel archesParkers includes rust on the subframe, sills, rear wheel arches and battery tray among the points to check on the MG TF; cars built from 2007 onwards in China were better protected.
- Low severityFrequency: OccasionalBodywork and interiorPlastic rear window and deteriorating hoodOn the MG TF the original plastic rear window becomes brittle and cracks, especially if the zips fail, and the hood lining is of poor quality.
- Low severityFrequency: OccasionalElectrical systemElectric windows, central locking and hood wiringParkers notes that on the MG TF the electric windows and central locking can fail, and that the wiring for the hood's heated rear window frays over time, although these are simple repairs.
- Low severityFrequency: OccasionalBodywork and interiorLeaks through doors and hoodParkers points to poor door and hood seals on the MG TF, with a risk of water in the carpet and electrical faults.
The faults of its engines are on the MG TF page.
The same problem in other cars
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalCitroën Jumper IIFaulty fixing of the front hub to the shock absorber: the wheel axle can break (2019 vehicles)Yes: Citroën recalled Citroën Jumpers built between April and June 2019 because the wheel axle could be faulty and break, changing the behaviour of the steering and creating a risk of accident. The DVSA describes it as a fixing of the hub to the front shock absorber that might not meet specification.
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalFiat Scudo IIIInsufficient tightening torque on the bolted shock absorber connectionA recall listed by Germany's KBA covers 2,244 Scudos built between 10 July 2024 and 13 February 2025: the tightening torque of the bolted shock absorber connection is insufficient and the mounting can be lost, with a risk of losing control of the car.
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalOpel Vivaro CShock absorber mounting to the bodywork with insufficient tightening torqueYes: Opel campaign KRM covers Vivaros built between 10 July 2024 and 13 February 2025 because the mounting of a shock absorber to the bodywork was fitted with insufficient tightening torque (90 Nm measured), with a risk of it breaking and the vehicle going out of control.
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot Boxer IIIFaulty fixing of the front hub to the shock absorber: the wheel axle can break (2019 vehicles)Yes: Peugeot recalled Peugeot Boxers built between April and June 2019 because the wheel axle could be faulty and break, changing the behaviour of the steering and creating a risk of accident. The DVSA describes it as a fixing of the hub to the front shock absorber that might not meet specification.
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPeugeot Expert IIIShock absorber mounting to the bodywork with insufficient tightening torqueA Peugeot recall (MWE, Safety Gate SR/01285/25) covers Expert vehicles built between July 2024 and February 2025: the mounting of a shock absorber to the bodywork was fitted with insufficient tightening torque (90 Nm measured) and can break, causing loss of control of the vehicle.
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalPorsche Macan IShock absorber bolts wrongly tightened several times (recall AMA8)Only on very specific units: recall AMA8 affects Macans built in January and February 2021 (159 cars worldwide according to the Safety Gate), on which some bolted shock absorber connections may have been wrongly tightened several times, with a risk of unstable driving. The bolts are replaced and, at the front, the mounts too.
All faults with the shock absorbers (130)Cars with the most suspension problems
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Sources
Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.
- MG TF (2002–2011) used car buying guide: Cheap, fun, not without pitfallsParkers · Motoring press · published 2 July 2025 · consulted 29 October 2026