2009 MINI (R57) 1.6L Petrol · SV09 GXU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive rather than preventative approach to repairs. While it passed its most recent test in April 2026 at 101,826 miles, it failed just days prior due to a non-functional stop lamp and multiple tyre-related defects. The recurring failures regarding tyres and mechanical components across several years suggest that the owner only addresses faults when they reach the point of causing an MOT failure. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 101,826 miles represents a low annual average of approximately 6,000 miles. However, the data shows a significant gap in usage between March 2023 at 78,966 miles and August 2024 at 96,882 miles, where the car covered nearly 18,000 miles in just seventeen months. This period of high intensity following longer periods coincides with the degradation of rubber components and the accelerated corrosion noted on the sub-frames. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the structural integrity of the front and rear sub-frames, as the April 2026 test flagged corrosion on both. Although not classified as seriously weakened at that time, this type of rust is progressive on R57 models. The front oil leak noted in 2024 should also be monitored to ensure it has not worsened into a significant leak, and the offside front drive shaft CV boot should be checked for signs of grease leakage or tearing to prevent imminent failure. The history of tyres worn to the legal limit or with exposed cords suggests a lack of basic consumable upkeep. The buyer should verify the current depth of all four tyres and check for uneven wear patterns which would indicate suspension alignment issues. Given the age of the vehicle and the noted corrosion, all rubber bushes and suspension components should be inspected for cracking or perishing.