2003 MINI 1.6L Petrol · LD53 AKX

The 2025‑11‑27 MOT at 57,710 miles resulted in a pass, though the tester flagged play in the steering rack inner joint(s), slight seepage from the power‑steering pipe/hose, a hand brake that operated slowly on the offside and a deteriorated registration plate. The previous test on 2025‑11‑24 at the same mileage recorded the same steering rack play and power‑steering seepage together with a failed fuel cap, incorrect headlamp aim and the same hand‑brake issue, indicating a pattern of recurring faults rather than improvement. The 2023‑12‑29 test at 49,621 miles also reported steering rack play and power‑steering seepage, confirming that these issues have persisted across multiple inspections. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 57,710 at 23 years old translates to roughly 2,500 miles per year, a figure that is low for its age and suggests periods of limited use. Mileage rose from 49,621 in December 2023 to 57,710 in November 2025, an increase of 8,089 miles in just over eleven months, indicating a recent acceleration in usage. Earlier periods showed more modest increments, with the largest jump occurring between the 2023‑12‑29 and 2025‑11‑24 tests. A buyer should therefore inspect the steering rack for excessive play, examine the power‑steering system for leaks, test the hand brake for firm operation, and check the condition of the front brake discs for scoring or weakening. The history shows repeated wear on suspension arm pins and bushes, especially the rear lower arm, so a close look at those components is essential. Heavy corrosion on the rear box and a minor exhaust leak were noted in 2023 and 2025, so the structural integrity of the exhaust system must be verified. Clutch release bearing noise, tyre tread depth below legal limits on several occasions and an ABS warning lamp recorded in 2019 suggest that the clutch, tyres and electronic systems merit particular attention. Overall, the vehicle is roadworthy with advisories, but the recurring mechanical issues and the recent mileage surge warrant a thorough in‑person inspection before purchase.