2021 MINI Cooper S 1.5L Hybrid electric (clean) · AF71 VHD

The most recent MOT, carried out on 17 September 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, and the preceding test on 18 September 2024 also returned a clean pass. With two consecutive years of fault‑free results, the vehicle’s recorded maintenance trend appears stable; there are no indications of emerging safety‑critical issues or a deterioration in condition from the MOT perspective. At 97,598 miles the 2021 MINI Cooper S has accumulated roughly 19,500 miles per annum, which is considerably above the typical UK average for a small performance hatchback. This level of utilisation suggests that wear items such as tyre tread, brake pads, discs and suspension components will have been exercised heavily. The mileage also implies that the engine and transmission have been subjected to a substantial number of load cycles, so any time‑based service intervals that are mileage‑dependent may be approaching or have already been exceeded. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the condition of the front and rear suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs, looking for any signs of looseness, creaking or uneven tyre wear that could indicate worn bushings or mis‑alignment. The brake system should be inspected for pad thickness, disc surface condition and any evidence of glazing or rust‑induced scoring, as high mileage often leads to disc corrosion and reduced braking efficiency. Tyres should be examined for tread depth, sidewall cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the car has spent periods of inactivity, and the wheel bearings should be checked for play or grinding noises during a low‑speed spin. Verify that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, spark‑plug replacements and timing‑chain or belt service as prescribed by MINI, and confirm that the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been refreshed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar‑based intervals. Given the vehicle’s age of five years, the 12‑volt lead‑acid battery should be tested for cranking amperage and inspected for any signs of sulfation or terminal corrosion, as batteries can lose capacity even when the car is driven frequently. Examine the exhaust system for rust or perforations, particularly around the manifold and catalytic converter, and check for any oil or coolant leaks around the engine bay and under the vehicle. On a test drive, listen for any clunking from the suspension, hums from the drivetrain, or pulsations in the brake pedal that could betray hidden wear. Anticipate that the next major service may involve a full brake fluid flush, replacement of the timing‑chain tensioner if applicable, and a comprehensive inspection of the turbocharger and intercooler, all of which are prudent items to negotiate or budget for when finalising the purchase.