🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Rover

Model:

800 Series

Model Variants:

820, 825, 827

Generation:

First Generation (XW)

Chassis Code:

XW

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive car segment, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and sophisticated styling for its era.

Competitors:

Competed against models such as the Ford Granada/Scorpio, Vauxhall Carlton/Senator, Peugeot 605, Citroën XM, and German luxury sedans like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Styling:

Designed by David Bache, known for its distinctive wedge-shaped profile and aerodynamic lines, a departure from previous Rover designs.

Powertrain:

Featured Honda-derived V6 engines (PG1 and PG2 transmissions) and Rover's own inline-four engines, offering refined performance.

Luxury:

Prioritized comfort and refinement with a focus on interior quality, advanced features for the time, and a smooth ride.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Total Pages:

265

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive engine diagnosis, removal, installation, overhaul, and tuning for all specified variants.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection systems (Bosch, Lucas), fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, and emissions control.

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition systems, coil packs, sensors, and electronic control modules.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan operation, coolant specifications, and pressure testing.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emission control components.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission diagnosis, removal, installation, overhaul, fluid specifications, and shift control.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, CV joints, and differential.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures, and specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, and electrical component testing.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, rust prevention, and structural components.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, components, refrigerant handling, and service.

Interior:

Seat removal and installation, dashboard disassembly, trim panel replacement, and interior component repair.

Diagnostics:

Comprehensive troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and testing procedures for all systems.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, and preventative maintenance.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems.

Disassembly Assembly:

Complete procedures for removing, disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling vehicle components.

Adjustments:

Precise adjustment procedures for various systems, including engine timing, brake adjustments, and alignment.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic approaches to identify and resolve common and complex vehicle problems.

Technical Data:

Includes critical service data, specifications, tightening torques, wear limits, and diagnostic parameters.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic DIY maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Readability:

High-resolution PDF, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Adobe Reader required.

Printable:

Yes, all pages are fully printable for convenient workshop use.

Digital Format:

Instant Download PDF, no physical product or shipping required.

Digital Quality:

Digitally rendered, providing clear illustrations and detailed text.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 820 I:

2.0L (1994cc) Rover M-Series I4, 85 kW (114 hp) @ 5500 rpm, 174 Nm (128 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

Engine 820 Sli/Si:

2.0L (1994cc) Rover T-Series I4, 100 kW (134 hp) @ 5750 rpm, 186 Nm (137 lb-ft) @ 3750 rpm (later models)

Engine 825:

2.5L (2498cc) Honda C25A V6, 110 kW (148 hp) @ 6000 rpm, 207 Nm (153 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm

Engine 827:

2.7L (2675cc) Honda C27A V6, 124 kW (166 hp) @ 6000 rpm, 224 Nm (165 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm

Top Speed 827 Vanden Plas:

Approx. 210 km/h (130 mph)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating specification detailed in manual)

🔧 Transmission

820 Models:

5-speed Manual Transmission (PG1)

825/827 Models:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (PG2)

820 Models:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (H54)

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronic control with 'Sport' and 'Economy' modes on some variants.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4845 mm (190.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, typically 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Specifications available in manual

🛡️ Safety Features

Euro Ncap Rating:

Not available for this era of vehicle through standardized NCAP testing.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System available on higher trims and optional on many models.

Traction Control:

Optional on some V6 models.

Airbags:

Driver's airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners on front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette players, often with premium speaker systems on higher trims. Cassette players are prone to mechanical failure.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control or automatic climate control systems on higher-spec models, offering a degree of cabin temperature regulation.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option or standard on many higher-trim models, providing convenience on long journeys.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on in-car entertainment and basic electrical convenience features. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check specific engine/oil type in manual).

Timing Belt Replacement:

For T-Series engines, every 60,000 miles or 4 years. For Honda V6 engines, timing chain is used (no belt replacement).

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-50) and API service classification based on engine and climate. Likely API SG or SH for later models.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specify 'long-life' or OAT coolant if recommended for the specific year.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on model year and ABS system requirements. Manual specifies exact type.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent specified by the manufacturer for the specific automatic transmission (e.g., H54, PG2).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil of specified viscosity (e.g., 75W-90).

Rust:

Susceptible to rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and subframes. Thorough inspection recommended.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common for older vehicles, but the 800 series can suffer from minor electrical issues due to complex wiring and age. Check fuses, relays, and ground points.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to handling issues and knocking noises. Front suspension top mounts are also a common wear item.

Engine Management Sensors:

Various sensors (e.g., Crankshaft Position Sensor, Lambda sensor) can fail, affecting engine performance and economy.

HVAC Blower Motor Resistor:

Common failure point, leading to loss of blower fan speed control. Replacement is a relatively straightforward repair.

📚 Vehicle History

Rover Legacy:

The Rover 800 Series was a significant model for Rover, representing a move towards more premium and modern vehicle design, sharing its platform and many components with the Honda Legend.

Facelift 1991:

The 800 Series received a significant facelift in 1991, with revised styling (often referred to as the 'facelift' or 'R17' generation), improved interior, and new engine options, including the T-Series engine.

Variations:

Offered in various body styles including a 4-door saloon and a 5-door hatchback (often called the 'Fastback'). High-specification 'Vanden Plas' and 'Sterling' trims were also available.

Production Period:

1986 to 1999