2022 MORGAN PLUS FOUR

Typical onset: 20,000-50,000 mi

Symptoms: Transmission fluid spots under vehicle, Burnt transmission fluid smell, Harsh shifting when hot, Low fluid warning on some BMW-based systems

Fix: ZF 8HP transmission cooler and lines are tucked awkwardly in the tight Morgan chassis. Lines chafe on frame rails or cooler fins corrode from road salt. Replacement requires partial front disassembly due to bodywork clearance. 3-5 hours labor depending on line vs. cooler.

Estimated cost: $800-1,800

Typical onset: 30,000-60,000 mi

Symptoms: Clunk on throttle tip-in or shifts, Vibration at idle in gear, Excessive driveline movement visible under hard acceleration

Fix: The rubber transmission mount absorbs a lot of torque from the turbo engine in a lightweight chassis. Morgan uses a BMW part but the application is more punishing. Direct replacement takes 2-3 hours with proper lift access. Upgrade to polyurethane aftermarket option adds firmness but lasts longer.

Estimated cost: $400-700

Typical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi

Symptoms: Coolant loss with no visible external leaks, White residue around head gasket area, Overheating under sustained load, Sweet smell from engine bay

Fix: The BMW B48 has a known issue with coolant weeping between head and block, sometimes requiring head removal and resurfacing. In the Morgan, access is tighter than a standard BMW. Full R&R with resurface is 12-16 hours. Must pressure-test block deck and head for flatness. Often find corroded passages that need cleaning.

Estimated cost: $3,500-5,500

Symptoms: Condensation inside headlight lenses, Intermittent bulb-out warnings, Corrosion on bulb sockets, Water droplets visible in housing after rain or car wash

Fix: The retro-styled headlight housings use modern projector units but sealing is marginal on early production. Water enters through vent tubes or lens seams. Replacing assemblies as a pair with updated gaskets is 2-3 hours. Some owners reseal with butyl tape as preventive measure.

Estimated cost: $1,200-2,000

Typical onset: 15,000-40,000 mi

Symptoms: Hesitation under wide-open throttle, Limp mode activation, Long crank times when hot, P0087 fuel pressure codes

Fix: The high-pressure fuel system on the B48 turbo is sensitive to debris. Morgan's fuel tank fabrication occasionally leaves aluminum particles or the factory filter wasn't flushed properly. Replace filter (1.5 hours) and flush lines. BMW recommends 60k interval but Morgan should be 30k or sooner if symptoms appear.

Estimated cost: $300-500

Symptoms: Intermittent electrical gremlins, Multiple systems failing randomly, Corrosion visible on fuse terminals, No-start conditions in damp weather

Fix: The fuse box location near the front grille exposes it to water intrusion more than a typical BMW installation. The hand-built body leaves small gaps where spray enters. Clean terminals, apply dielectric grease, verify drain tubes are clear. Severe cases need fuse box replacement (3-4 hours with harness inspection).

Estimated cost: $600-1,200