MINI MINI (R57)2010 · 1.6L PETROL

This 2010 MINI has clocked just over 70,000 miles in 16 years—roughly 4,400 miles annually—which suggests moderate, intermittent use rather than continuous daily driving. That pattern can work either way: lighter use means less mechanical stress, but extended standing periods invite corrosion, rubber degradation, and fluid issues that are starting to show here. The most recent MOT in June 2025 passed, but with several telling advisories. The fuel cap seal is perishing, the nearside front tyre is wearing unevenly on both edges (a classic sign of alignment or suspension wear), the engine oil level is low, and jacking mounts on both sides are missing—a safety concern for future servicing and recovery. These aren't catastrophic failures, but they paint a picture of deferred maintenance and light oversight. Looking back, the trend is concerning. A year earlier, in May 2024, the car failed its MOT because both windscreen washers were inoperative and the offside front position lamp was dim. It passed on retest the same day after the lamp issue was addressed, but the washer fault required correction. By May 2023, a nearside rear tyre showed cracking and perishing. The 2022 test was clean with no defects noted.