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MG MGF Technical - Road Holding

Had my MGF for 3 years and the road holding has now got to the point where it doesn't feel safe. I expect some sliding in wet and icy conditions but this last winter has been worse than ever. Dealer has checked over the car, replaced back tyres and fitted a new part relating to the suspension fuid but the problem is no better. Has anyone had similar problems or know of any solutions?
Debbie

Debbie, are you driving the car with a little more gusto now you've had it three years, cornering a little faster? accelerating harder out of the corners?
I think you need a second opinion, let another F'er try the car and get a second opinion before spending money on a new suspension set-up Ala Techspeed or MS tweaks, which would be the natural progression, as it could be the dampers/shock absorbers on there way out.
HTH Mike
Mike

Mike, I am now driving the car like an old lady and haven't had a speeding ticket for 18 months!! I will take the car back to the dealer so it is useful for me to pass on suggestions ie dampers/shock abs. Thanks,
Debbie

Hi debbie,

it is kind of difficult to be sure what kind of problems that you are having with your car - the problem of trying to describe something in words only I guess.

However, there are some simple checks you can perform to try and fathom why your car isn't handling properly:

1. Tyres: what type and make are they? Are they the same type at the front and rear (mixing tyres is not a good idea). Check the tyre pressures with a reliable guage - 26 and 28 psi front and rear. Check the condition of the tyres: is the wear across the pattern even?
2. If the car has a number of miles under its belt, it may be worth considering what condition the suspension bushes are in, and whether the suspension ball-joints have any excessive play (unusual though, at only three years)
3. Get the tracking checked by a specialist. Should only cost about 40 quid for 4-wheel alignment.

MGR recommend a road test to see whether the alignments are acceptable - which involves accelerating and decellerating from low and high speed, and seeing whether the car deviates from a straight line. If it does this, then definitely get the tracking corrected.

Hope this helps!
Rob Bell

Rob has a good point on the bushes, as they get older and softer the car geometry can look fine at a standstill be be all over the place on the move.
Mike
Mike

My car was really dodgy in the wet, I had to drive at 50 to feel safe. Took it to B&G for a service, they found rear bearing wear, replaced it- now solid as a rock.
Will Munns

This thread was discussed on 15/05/2003

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