2006 MINI 1.6L Petrol · VU56 AEM
2006 MINI (1.6L, petrol). First registered 29 Dec 2006. Recorded mileage 72,050 miles. MOT valid until 31 Jan 2027. Taxed until 01 Jan 2027.
- Make & Model
- MINI MINI
- Year / Origin
- 2006 · Worcester
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 31 Jan 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jan 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 72,050 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
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VU56 AEM Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 28/01/2026
- 72,050 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
VU56 AEM MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2006 Mini Mini (VU56 AEM) between January 2022 and January 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 3 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 3 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
VU56 AEM Mileage History
- 24/01/202267,308 mi
- 16/01/202368,358 mi+1,050 mi
- 29/01/202469,263 mi+905 mi
- 23/01/202571,380 mi+2,117 mi
- 28/01/202672,050 mi+670 mi
Average of roughly 1,182 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution. While the mileage is relatively low for a 2006 model, recent advisories regarding sub-frame corrosion and a history of oil leaks require careful mechanical inspection.
Your primary focus should be the most recent MOT advisory concerning the front sub-frame corrosion. While noted as 'not seriously weakened' in January 2026, corrosion on these models can progress quickly. Ask the seller for proof of any remedial work or underbody treatments.
Secondly, investigate the history of oil leaks. This vehicle has had 'oil leak, but not excessive' noted in multiple MOT tests dating back to 2019/2020. You should check if this was ever professionally addressed or if it's a persistent issue. Finally, ensure the SRS (airbag) warning lamp issues noted in 2018 and 2019 have been fully resolved and are not currently active on the dashboard.
As a 1.6L petrol MINI, running costs are generally moderate. You can expect typical urban/extra-urban fuel economy for a car of this era, though heavy maintenance on suspension or brakes can spike costs.
Insurance groups for 2006 MINIs vary depending on the driver profile, but they are generally affordable for younger drivers compared to performance models. Tax and maintenance will be standard for a small petrol hatchback, though older MINIs can sometimes suffer from more frequent minor component replacements like tyres and brake discs, as seen in this vehicle's history.
Start with the underside; look closely at the front sub-frame to assess the extent of the corrosion mentioned in the January 2026 MOT. Check for any signs of fresh oil weeping around the engine block or sump to see if the long-standing oil leak issue has been managed.
Check the braking system thoroughly. This car has a history of imbalanced rear brakes, binding brakes, and worn discs/pads. Ensure the pedal feel is firm and there are no unusual noises when braking. Also, inspect the tyres; the 2024 MOT highlighted perishing/cracking on the front tyres, so ensure the current set is relatively fresh and not showing age-related cracking.
This blue 2006 MINI (1.6L petrol) has covered 72,050 miles, which is reasonable for its age. The MOT history shows a consistent pattern of passing, but there are recurring themes of oil leaks, brake wear, and most recently, sub-frame corrosion. While it has avoided major failures in the last two years, the cumulative maintenance needs suggest it hasn't been a 'set and forget' vehicle.
The 2006 MINI models are known for being engaging to drive, but they often require diligent maintenance regarding oil management and suspension components.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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