Segment:
Small hatchback, economy car
Target Audience:
Owners of Austin and MG Metro vehicles seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves or gain in-depth technical understanding.
Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Nova, Peugeot 205, Fiat Uno, Volkswagen Polo.
Unique Selling Points:
Compact size, sporty MG variant, innovative hydrolastic suspension (early models), cost-effective to run and maintain with the right knowledge.
Models Covered:
Austin Metro, MG Metro
Years Covered:
1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990
Estimated Page Count:
Likely between 200-400 pages (typical for Haynes manuals of this era)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Maintenance, troubleshooting, repair of 1.0L (A-Series), 1.3L (A-Series) and later K-Series engines.
Transmission:
Manual gearbox maintenance, repair, and clutch replacement.
Brakes:
Disc and drum brake system servicing, hydraulic component replacement.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (including hydrolastic fluid checks and topping up on early models), rear suspension, steering rack and column maintenance.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, alternator, starter motor, lighting, ignition system troubleshooting.
Bodywork Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, jacking and lifting points.
Cooling Heating:
Radiator, thermostat, heater matrix, cooling fan operation.
Fuel System:
Carburetor maintenance and adjustment (e.g., SU HIF4, Weber), fuel pump, fuel lines.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, coolant top-ups, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and overhaul.
Disassembly Assembly:
Instructions for removing and refitting major components and sub-assemblies.
Specifications Adjustments:
Torque settings, valve clearances, ignition timing, carburetor settings.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering both routine maintenance and major repairs suitable for home mechanics and professional workshops.
Engine Type Early:
BMC/BL/Rover A-Series (OHV Inline-4)
Engine Displacement Early:
998cc (1.0 Litre), 1275cc (1.3 Litre)
Engine Power Early 1.0L:
Approx. 46-50 bhp
Engine Power Early 1.3L:
Approx. 60-65 bhp (standard Metro), 72 bhp (MG Metro)
Engine Fuel System:
Single SU HIF carburetor (1.0L, 1.3L), twin SU HIF carburetors (MG Metro), later models may have fuel injection variants.
0-60 Mph Approx:
13-16 seconds (depending on engine variant)
Length:
Approx. 3,400 mm (134 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,570 mm (61.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,360 mm (53.5 in)
Kerb Weight Approx:
Approx. 770-850 kg (depending on model and equipment)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months (check manual for specific recommendations).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check at 6,000 miles, replace at 12,000 miles (typical for A-Series).
Coolant Change:
Every 12-24 months, depending on coolant type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 20W/50 or 20W/40 (check manual for exact grade).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W/90 or 80W/90 gear oil.
Bodywork Corrosion:
Prone to rust in wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, and rear hatch area due to age and material treatments of the era.
Hydrolastic Suspension:
Early models with hydrolastic suspension can develop leaks or require fluid top-ups; requires specific procedure and fluid.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring looms and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical faults. Headlight switch failure is common.
Carburetor Issues:
SU or Weber carburetors can require periodic adjustment and rebuild due to worn needles, jets, or diaphragms.
Engine Oil Leaks:
A-Series engines are known for minor oil leaks from seals and gaskets.
Heritage:
Austin Rover (part of British Leyland, later Rover Group) was a prominent British manufacturer known for a wide range of vehicles.
Development:
Developed as a replacement for the Mini, the Metro was designed to be more modern, spacious, and comfortable.
Mg Variant:
The MG Metro version provided a sportier performance variant with upgraded engine, suspension, and styling.
Production Years:
1980–1990
Manufacturing Locations:
Longbridge, Birmingham, United Kingdom
