ROVER 45 Buying Guide & Reliability (2001-2006)

ROVER 45 Overview The ROVER 45 is a compact car produced by the British manufacturer ROVER between 2001 and 2006. With a total of 189 registration plates recorded, this model has become a notable choice for drivers seeking a blend of style and practicality.

Last updated September 08, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

ROVER 45 Overview

ROVER 45 Overview

The ROVER 45 is a compact car produced by the British manufacturer ROVER between 2001 and 2006. With a total of 189 registration plates recorded, this model has become a notable choice for drivers seeking a blend of style and practicality.

During its production run, the ROVER 45 was available in various fuel types, with the majority being petrol (160 units), followed by diesel (28 units) and a single LPG variant. This diverse fuel distribution caters to a range of preferences among drivers.

In terms of colour, the ROVER 45 is predominantly found in blue (64 units), silver (48 units), and red (34 units), with green and grey options also available. This variety allows buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

The ROVER 45 has undergone a total of 2,350 MOT tests, achieving a pass rate of 74.4%. However, it is important to note that common failures have been reported in several categories. The most frequent issues include brakes (7 failures), lighting (4 failures), and suspension (3 failures), alongside body and structure, and tyre-related problems, each also recording 3 failures.

Annual mileage for the ROVER 45 averages at 2,037 miles, indicating a moderate usage pattern among owners. The tax status distribution reveals that 124 units are untaxed, 48 are SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), and only 17 are currently taxed.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and the statistics presented here are based on the latest available information. Potential buyers and current owners should verify details with relevant authorities or databases.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The ROVER 45, produced between 2001 and 2006, has a total of 189 registered vehicles on the UK roads. With an overall MOT pass rate of 74.4%, this model demonstrates a reasonable level of reliability, although it is essential for potential buyers to be aware of common issues that may arise.

In terms of MOT performance, the ROVER 45 has undergone a total of 2,350 tests. The most frequent reasons for failure include brakes, which accounted for 7 failures, followed by lighting issues with 4 failures, and suspension problems with 3 failures. Additionally, failures related to body and structure, as well as tyres, also recorded 3 instances each. These statistics highlight the areas where owners should focus their maintenance efforts.

The distribution of fuel types among the ROVER 45 is predominantly petrol, with 160 petrol vehicles compared to 28 diesel and just 1 LPG variant. This fuel distribution may influence the vehicle's overall running costs and maintenance requirements.

When examining the colour distribution of the ROVER 45, blue is the most common colour, with 64 vehicles, followed by silver at 48, and red at 34. This variety in colour may appeal to different buyer preferences.

Regarding the age distribution, the majority of ROVER 45 vehicles are from 2002 (64 units) and 2003 (49 units), indicating that these years may be more prevalent in the used car market. However, it is important to note that 124 of the registered vehicles are currently untaxed, while 48 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), which may affect their availability for purchase.

While this data provides a snapshot of the ROVER 45's reliability and MOT performance, it is essential to consider that individual vehicle conditions may vary. Always consult a professional for specific assessments.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering the purchase of a used ROVER 45, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With a total of 189 registration plates recorded, this model was produced between 2001 and 2006, and understanding its history and condition is crucial.

First, check the vehicle's MOT history. The ROVER 45 has a pass rate of 74.4%, which indicates that while many vehicles pass their tests, a significant number do not. Pay particular attention to common failure categories, such as brakes (7 failures), lighting (4 failures), and suspension (3 failures). These areas are critical for safety and should be thoroughly inspected.

Next, consider the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for the ROVER 45 is approximately 2,037 miles, which is relatively low. A vehicle with significantly higher mileage may have more wear and tear, so it's essential to assess the odometer reading in relation to the vehicle's age.

Fuel type is another important aspect. The majority of ROVER 45s are petrol (160 units), with a smaller number being diesel (28 units) and only one LPG variant. Your choice of fuel type can affect running costs and availability of parts, so choose according to your preferences and needs.

Colour can also influence resale value. The most common colours for the ROVER 45 are blue (64 units), silver (48 units), and red (34 units). If you have a specific colour preference, this may narrow your options.

Lastly, check the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the 189 units, 124 are untaxed, 48 are SORN, and only 17 are currently taxed. This information can provide insight into the vehicle's usage and maintenance history.

Always verify the data accuracy and consider obtaining a professional inspection before finalising your purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The ROVER 45, produced between 2001 and 2006, has a total of 189 registration plates recorded in the UK. This model is available in various fuel types, with the majority being petrol (160 units), followed by diesel (28 units) and a single LPG variant. The average annual mileage for this vehicle is approximately 2,037 miles, which can help potential owners estimate their running costs.

In terms of taxation, the ROVER 45 has a distribution of tax statuses, with 124 vehicles untaxed, 48 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), and only 17 currently taxed. This information is crucial for prospective buyers to consider when evaluating the overall cost of ownership.

The ROVER 45 has undergone a total of 2,350 MOT tests, achieving a pass rate of 74.4%. This statistic indicates a reasonable level of reliability, although it is essential to be aware of common failures. The most frequent issues reported include brakes (7 failures), lighting (4 failures), and suspension (3 failures), alongside body and structure, and tyre-related problems, each also recording 3 failures.

When examining the colour distribution of the ROVER 45, blue is the most popular choice, with 64 units, followed by silver (48), red (34), green (22), and grey (7). The year distribution shows a higher concentration of vehicles from 2002 (64 units) and 2003 (49 units), indicating these years may have been particularly popular among buyers.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available records and may not reflect the current market situation. Always verify details with reliable sources before making any purchasing decisions.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the ROVER 45, it’s worth exploring some alternative models that may suit your needs. The ROVER 45, produced between 2001 and 2006, has a total of 189 registration plates and a MOT pass rate of 74.4%. While it has its merits, other vehicles in the same category might offer different features or reliability.

One alternative to consider is the Ford Focus, known for its strong performance and reliability. The Focus has a higher MOT pass rate compared to the ROVER 45, making it a more dependable choice for many drivers. Additionally, the Focus offers a variety of engine options, including efficient petrol and diesel variants.

Another model worth looking at is the Vauxhall Astra. The Astra has a solid reputation for comfort and practicality, with a range of body styles to choose from. Like the ROVER 45, it has a good selection of petrol and diesel engines, but it generally boasts a better reliability record.

For those interested in a more compact option, the Honda Civic is a strong contender. Known for its durability and low running costs, the Civic has a loyal following. Its design is modern, and it often comes equipped with advanced safety features, making it a popular choice among buyers.

When considering alternatives, it’s essential to look at common failures. The ROVER 45 has reported issues primarily in brakes (7 failures), lighting (4 failures), and suspension (3 failures). In contrast, the alternatives mentioned typically have fewer reported issues, which may lead to lower maintenance costs over time.

Ultimately, while the ROVER 45 has its appeal, exploring models like the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra, and Honda Civic could provide you with better reliability and performance. Always ensure to check the latest data and reviews before making a decision.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify information with reliable sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years was the ROVER 45 produced?

The ROVER 45 was manufactured between 2001 and 2006. This model spans six years, with a total of 189 registration plates recorded.

What is the MOT pass rate for the ROVER 45?

The MOT pass rate for the ROVER 45 stands at 74.4%. This statistic reflects the vehicle's reliability and condition as assessed during MOT tests.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the ROVER 45 include issues with brakes (7 failures), lighting (4 failures), and suspension (3 failures). Additionally, problems with the body and structure, as well as tyres, also contributed to the failure rate.

What fuel types are available for the ROVER 45?

The ROVER 45 is primarily available in petrol (160 units), with a smaller number of diesel (28 units) and LPG (1 unit) variants. This distribution indicates a strong preference for petrol models among owners.

What colours are most common for the ROVER 45?

In terms of colour distribution, blue is the most popular choice, with 64 vehicles recorded. Other common colours include silver (48), red (34), green (22), and grey (7).

What is the average annual mileage for the ROVER 45?

The average annual mileage for the ROVER 45 is approximately 2,037 miles. This figure can help potential buyers gauge the usage and wear of the vehicle.

What is the tax status of ROVER 45 vehicles?

Out of the total registrations, 124 ROVER 45 vehicles are untaxed, 48 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification), and only 17 are currently taxed.

Disclaimer: The data presented is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current information. Always verify details with official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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