Phil Raby wrote:
>
> On 14/9/98 9:05 am mgs-owner@autox.team.net said
>
> > This is NOT a joke...the MGF is getting a rough time, it is
> >proving to not be very reliable, and made our prime-time TV in the UK,
> >on a programme called " Watchdog". Bits keep falling off, or leak, or
> >seize. It only goes to show we now have a new breed of MG owner. One who
> >cannot fix his car, but goes running back to the manufacturer. Perhaps
> >it is another TR7 AAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
>
> This is a typical Watchdog non-story along the lines that all washing
> machines should be banned because Mrs Smith from Wrexham's cat got caught
> in one.
>
> Roche Bentley of the MG Owners' Club, who was featured on the programme,
> in his magazine asked members to report on MGF faults there was a zero
> response.
>
> We put a similar plea in MG World just one person contacted us with a
> list of minor problems he'd had with his MGF.
>
> Yes, there have been minor niggly problems with MGFs, but they've all
> been blown out of proportion by Anne Interfering Robinson and her
> cronies. The new cars have had these problems sorted (most related to the
> hood which has now been redesigned). Also, dealers have been very quick
> to sort out problems. Remember, MG offers a 30 day money back guarantee
> on the F. I reckon the sort of people who contact these programmes are
> born moaners and wouldn't be happy with any car.
>
> While researching a buyer's guide, I've been talking to an MGF dealer who
> has sold over 800 Fs, both new and used. He has not come across any
> problem which you can point to and say is a general failing of the car.
> In fact, the F appears to be cheaper to run than a Mini! One service a
> year for £130 and that's it! Still, that wouldn't make good TV, would it?
>
> In reponse to Nevin's question, yes the new Mini will be sold in the US,
> I believe thro BMW dealers. The next MG, which will be front-engined,
> front-wheel-drive (sadly) will also be sold in the US. It's even possible
> that it will be built in the US now there's a frightening thought, if
> the Z3 build quality is anything to go by!!
>
> Now, how do I get off this soapbox?
>
> Cheers,
>
> Philip Raby
> Editor, MG World
> PO Box 163, Bicester OX6 3YS, UK
> Tel: 01869 340061 Fax: 01869 340063 Mobile 0467 767361
> www.chp.ltd.uk
The few owners who have moaned have obviously caught the attention of
the media, that being Ann Robinson & Co. The problem with such
programmes is, people believe them, and to me is Trial By Television. I
have never even driven a MGF, though know a few who own one.
Neil
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