1998 ROVER MINI COOPER COOPER S1.3L PETROL

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the mechanical condition shows a clear worsening trend in suspension and steering component degradation. The most recent test in October 2025 at 24,456 miles flagged play in all four suspension ball joints, a worn offside rear wheel bearing, and perished front subframe pins or bushes. While the car passed, the accumulation of these advisories indicates that multiple rubber and metal components are reaching the end of their functional life despite the extremely low distance travelled. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 28-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 873 miles per year. The record shows significant periods of inactivity, with only 24 miles recorded between July 2024 and October 2025, and just nine miles between previous tests. This low usage suggests the car has sat for long durations, which often leads to the accelerated drying of seals, perished rubber bushings, and internal seizing of moving parts, as evidenced by the oil leak and steering issues noted in 2024. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front subframe and jacking points, as the 2021 test already identified structural weakness in these areas. The recurring reports of steering rack inner joint play and ball joint wear necessitate a comprehensive overhaul of the front suspension geometry to ensure handling precision. Additionally, the reported oil leak from 2024 should be monitored to ensure it remains a minor seep rather than a developing engine seal failure that has not been fully addressed.