The Rover 400, which became the 45 is a bit of an unsung hero for British car manufacturing, having been developed by Honda, so it has a superior chassis and suspension set-up. It’s even more deserving of praise if it’s powered by the 1994cc L-Series diesel engine, which first appeared in 1995 and was fitted to many a Rover 200/400/600 and Land Rover Freelander before the collapse of MG-Rover in 2005. We’re looking at a later turbocharged engine (non-turbo engines ceased production in 2000), which produces the largest power output (113bhp) and is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.
There’s nothing particularly complicated about servicing a Rover 45, but beware of corrosion and parts availability that can both be a major headache. Some suspension components for example, are difficult to source, although aftermarket bushes may be available.
Rob says
► The 19mm wheel nuts can swell with internal corrosion (underneath their shiny covers), making it difficult to fit the correct-sized socket, or leaving the nut stuck inside the socket. Replace any wheel nuts that have seemingly swollen because the corrosion can lead to more problems, such as seized nuts.
Equipment required
>jack > axle stands (or ramp) > oil tray > 8-19mm sockets/ spanners > 8mm Allen key > oil filter wrench/strap > pliers > screwdrivers > wheel brace > pry bars > battery tester > antifreeze hydrometer > brake fluid tester > brake windback tool or G-clamp > Vernier calipers > hammers > soft and wire brushes > spray grease > penetrating fluid > petroleum jelly > brake cleaner > tyre pump/gauge > torch > torque wrench > rags for cleaning > paper towel > disposable gloves > clean jug.
