Positioning:
Essential resource for Austin Metro and MG Metro owners and independent repairers aiming for cost-effective maintenance and repairs.
Alternatives:
Offers more comprehensive coverage than owner's manuals, superior detail to generic online guides, and serves as a cost-effective alternative to dealership-specific diagnostic tools for many tasks.
Benefits:
Enables DIY repairs, saves money on labor costs, provides step-by-step instructions with illustrations, allows for printing of specific sections.
Users:
Enthusiasts, owners undertaking their own maintenance, independent mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Charging System, Starting System, Accessories
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Paint and Corrosion Protection
Maintenance:
Routine Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Diagnosis and Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Finding Charts, Common Issues and Solutions
Technical Specifications:
Torque Settings, Tolerances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Component Data
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic servicing to major component overhaul and diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine Displacement Standard:
1275 cc (77.8 cu in)
Engine Displacement Variant:
998 cc (60.9 cu in) also available on some models
Horsepower Mg Metro:
Approximately 72 bhp (54 kW) at 5800 rpm for 1275cc MG Metro
Torque Mg Metro:
Approximately 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) at 3400 rpm for 1275cc MG Metro
Horsepower Standard Metro:
Approximately 38 bhp (28 kW) to 50 bhp (37 kW) for 998cc and 1.3L engines
Fuel Delivery Standard:
Single SU Carburetor (e.g., H.I.F. 32) or twin SU carburetors on performance models.
Fuel Delivery Mg Metro:
Twin SU Carburetors (e.g., HS4) typically on 1275cc MG Metro
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (Lucas Opus or similar) or contact breaker points depending on year/spec.
Cooling Type:
Water Cooled
Type:
4-speed Manual Transaxle
Type:
3-speed Automatic (less common, particularly on MG variants)
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate, Diaphragm Spring
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 80W/90 or 20W/50 (check specific manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 3450 mm (135.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1570 mm (61.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1300 mm (51.2 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
700-800 kg (1540-1760 lbs) depending on specification
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2090 mm (82.3 in)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check and clean at 6,000 miles, replace at ~12,000 miles (depending on type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Check at 6,000 miles, replace annually or as needed.
Engine Oil:
API SF/SG, SAE 20W/50 or 10W/40 (check manual for specific grade).
Coolant:
50/50 Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze and water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for compatibility).
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, door bottoms, bulkhead, rear valance.
Common Mechanical Faults:
Carburetor tuning issues, oil leaks (rocker cover, sump), suspension wear (especially Hydragas units if fitted), potential gearbox synchromesh wear.
Electrical Gremlins:
Loose connections, corroded earth points, wiring loom degradation over time.
Oil Filter Example:
e.g., Fram PH5030, Mann-Filter W712/16 (verify against specific engine variant).
Manufacturer:
Austin Rover Group (formerly British Leyland)
Key Development:
Designed by David Bache, intended to replace the Mini but ultimately sold alongside it. MG Metro version offered a sportier, higher-performance variant.
Production Period:
1980 - 1990
Assembly Location:
Longbridge, Birmingham, UK
Reception:
Praised for its practicality, modern interior design for the time, and the MG version for its performance. Faced competition from Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Nova, and the original Mini.
