MG4 ER (77kWh): 2-Year Ownership Report & Service Review

Hey everyone! Let's dive into my comprehensive service report for my MG4 ER (77kWh) in Norway, along with a two-year ownership update covering 47,000 km. I’ll be sharing all the juicy details about issues I've encountered, software updates, and my overall experience. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Two Years and 47,000 Kilometers: My MG4 ER Ownership Journey

Over the past two years, my MG4 ER has been my trusty companion, clocking an impressive 47,000 kilometers on the beautiful Norwegian roads. From city commutes to long road trips through stunning landscapes, the MG4 ER has proven to be a capable and reliable electric vehicle. It's been quite the journey, and I’ve learned a lot about this EV during my time with it. The initial excitement of owning an electric car hasn't faded; in fact, it's grown as I've experienced the benefits firsthand – the smooth, quiet ride, the instant torque, and, of course, the significant savings on fuel costs. However, like any vehicle, it hasn’t been without its quirks and challenges. This update will provide a comprehensive look at the ups and downs, highlighting the areas where the MG4 ER shines and where there's room for improvement. I'll be discussing everything from range and charging performance to software glitches and build quality issues. My goal is to offer an honest and transparent perspective for anyone considering the MG4 ER or simply interested in the realities of long-term EV ownership. Let’s be real, choosing an EV is a big decision, and having real-world insights can make all the difference. So, whether you're an EV enthusiast, a potential buyer, or just curious about the MG4 ER, I hope this update provides valuable information. I’ll also touch on how the car has performed in different weather conditions, especially the harsh Norwegian winters, which can really put a vehicle to the test. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of my experience. We'll explore the maintenance, the unexpected surprises, and the overall satisfaction of driving the MG4 ER over the last two years.

Service Report: Addressing the Issues

During my recent service appointment, I had a few key issues addressed. The most pressing was a persistent software glitch that occasionally caused the infotainment system to freeze. This was more of an annoyance than a critical issue, but it definitely impacted the overall driving experience. Another concern was a slight rattle in the rear suspension, which became more noticeable on rough roads. I also requested a thorough inspection of the battery pack and charging system to ensure everything was in top condition. The service team at the dealership were incredibly helpful and professional. They listened carefully to my concerns and provided a detailed explanation of the diagnostic process. It’s always reassuring to work with a service team that understands the intricacies of electric vehicles and can address issues efficiently. The software glitch, it turns out, was a known issue with an update already available, so they quickly installed it. The rattle in the rear suspension required a bit more investigation, but they were able to identify a loose component and secure it properly. I was particularly impressed with their attention to detail when it came to the battery inspection. They ran a series of tests to assess the battery's health and charging capacity, providing me with a comprehensive report. It's this kind of proactive approach that gives me confidence in the long-term reliability of the MG4 ER. Beyond these specific issues, the service included a general check-up, fluid top-ups, and tire rotation. It’s all the standard stuff, but it's essential to keep the car running smoothly. The service experience as a whole was positive, and I left feeling confident that my MG4 ER is in good hands. Now, let’s dig a bit deeper into these issues and how they were resolved.

Software Glitches: A Minor Inconvenience

The software glitches I experienced mainly involved the infotainment system freezing or becoming unresponsive. This usually happened during navigation or while using media apps. It wasn’t a frequent occurrence, maybe once or twice a month, but it was still frustrating. Imagine you’re driving along, relying on the GPS, and suddenly the screen freezes – not ideal, right? The good news is that the dealership was aware of this issue and had a software update available. The update was installed quickly during the service appointment, and I haven't experienced any glitches since. It’s a relief to have that sorted out. Software issues are pretty common in modern cars, especially EVs, which rely heavily on complex software systems. It’s part of the territory, I guess. But it’s also reassuring to know that manufacturers are actively working to address these issues with updates. I’ve heard stories about other EVs with much more serious software problems, so I feel fortunate that my experience has been relatively minor. The key takeaway here is that software updates are crucial for keeping your EV running smoothly, and it's essential to stay on top of them. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for future updates and making sure they’re installed promptly. Let's move on to the next issue I encountered – the rattle in the rear suspension.

Rear Suspension Rattle: The Loose Culprit

The rattle in the rear suspension was a bit more concerning than the software glitches, simply because it suggested a potential mechanical issue. It started as a subtle noise, but it gradually became more noticeable, especially when driving over bumps or rough surfaces. It sounded like something was loose or vibrating, and it was definitely affecting the ride quality. I’m pretty sensitive to noises in my car, so it didn’t take long for it to start bothering me. When I described the issue to the service team, they immediately took it seriously. They put the car up on a lift and conducted a thorough inspection of the suspension components. After some probing and testing, they identified the culprit – a loose bolt in the rear stabilizer bar linkage. Apparently, it had worked its way loose over time, causing the rattle. The fix was relatively simple; they tightened the bolt and made sure everything was properly secured. The difference in ride quality after the repair was immediately noticeable. The rattle was gone, and the car felt much more solid and stable, especially when cornering. It’s amazing how such a small issue can have such a big impact. This experience highlights the importance of regular maintenance and inspections. Catching these kinds of problems early can prevent them from escalating into more serious issues down the road. I’m grateful that the service team was able to diagnose and fix the rattle so quickly and effectively. Now, let’s talk about the battery inspection, which is a crucial aspect of EV ownership.

Battery Inspection: Peace of Mind

The battery is the heart of any electric vehicle, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition. I requested a comprehensive battery inspection as part of my service appointment to ensure everything was functioning optimally. The service team ran a series of diagnostic tests to assess the battery's health, charging capacity, and overall performance. They checked the individual cell voltages, the state of charge, and the battery's temperature management system. This is pretty high-tech stuff, and it’s reassuring to know that they have the equipment and expertise to perform these tests. The results of the inspection were positive. The battery showed no signs of degradation or damage, and its charging capacity was still within the expected range. This was a huge relief. Battery degradation is a common concern for EV owners, so it’s good to know that my MG4 ER’s battery is holding up well after two years and 47,000 kilometers. The service team also provided me with a detailed report outlining the test results. This kind of transparency is fantastic and gives me confidence in the long-term reliability of the car. They also checked the battery's cooling system, which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing overheating. Everything was in good working order, which is excellent news. The battery inspection was definitely worth it for the peace of mind it provided. Knowing that the battery is in good condition is essential for the long-term value and usability of the car. Now, let’s move on to the ownership update and discuss my overall experience with the MG4 ER over the past two years.

2-Year Ownership Update: The Verdict

After two years and 47,000 kilometers, I can confidently say that I’m still very happy with my MG4 ER. It’s been a reliable, practical, and enjoyable EV to own. The range is excellent for my needs, the charging performance is good, and the overall driving experience is smooth and comfortable. But it’s not perfect, of course. There have been some minor issues, as I’ve already discussed, but nothing that has significantly impacted my satisfaction. Let’s break down the key aspects of my ownership experience. First, the range. The 77kWh battery provides a real-world range of around 400 kilometers in the summer and about 300 kilometers in the winter, which is more than enough for my daily commute and most road trips. Range anxiety is a real thing for EV owners, but I’ve rarely experienced it with the MG4 ER. The charging infrastructure in Norway is also excellent, with plenty of fast-charging stations available along major routes. This makes long-distance travel much easier and more convenient. I’ve also been impressed with the car’s efficiency. It consistently achieves around 18 kWh per 100 kilometers, which is pretty good for a car of its size and performance. This translates to significant savings on fuel costs compared to a traditional gasoline car. The performance of the MG4 ER is also noteworthy. The instant torque and smooth acceleration make it a joy to drive, and it handles well in a variety of conditions. It’s a fun car to drive, whether you’re zipping around town or cruising on the highway. Now, let’s talk about some of the things that could be improved.

Issues and Areas for Improvement

While my overall experience with the MG4 ER has been positive, there are a few areas where I think MG could improve. The software, as I mentioned earlier, has had some glitches. While the recent update seems to have resolved the infotainment freezing issue, I think there’s still room for improvement in the overall software experience. The user interface could be more intuitive, and some of the features could be more polished. Another area for improvement is the build quality. While the car feels solid overall, there are some minor fit and finish issues, such as panel gaps and some interior trim pieces that don’t feel as premium as they could. These are minor things, but they do detract slightly from the overall experience. The ride quality, while generally good, can be a bit firm on rough roads. The suspension could be a bit more compliant, especially for long-distance driving. I’ve also heard from other MG4 ER owners about issues with the heating system in cold weather. While I haven’t experienced any major problems myself, it’s something to be aware of. The heating system seems to consume a significant amount of energy, which can reduce the car’s range in winter. Overall, these are relatively minor issues, and they don’t overshadow the many positive aspects of the MG4 ER. But they are things that MG should address in future models. Continuous improvement is key in the EV market, and I’m confident that MG will continue to refine and improve their products. Let’s wrap things up with my final thoughts.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

So, would I recommend the MG4 ER after two years of ownership? Absolutely. It’s a fantastic EV that offers a great combination of range, performance, and value. It’s not perfect, but no car is. The minor issues I’ve encountered have been outweighed by the many benefits of owning an electric vehicle. The smooth and quiet driving experience, the instant torque, the low running costs, and the environmental benefits all make it a compelling choice. If you’re considering an EV, the MG4 ER should definitely be on your list. It’s a well-rounded car that’s suitable for a variety of needs, from daily commuting to family road trips. The 77kWh battery provides ample range, and the fast-charging capability makes long-distance travel feasible. The MG4 ER is also competitively priced, making it an accessible option for many buyers. Of course, it’s essential to do your own research and consider your specific needs and priorities. Test drive the car, read reviews, and talk to other owners. But based on my experience, I believe the MG4 ER is a strong contender in the EV market. I’m excited to see what MG comes up with next, and I’m looking forward to continuing my EV journey with the MG4 ER. Thanks for reading, and I hope this comprehensive report has been helpful! If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below.