2014 MINI Countryman 1.6L Petrol · AV64 LPZ

A pattern of recurring advisories, particularly relating to tyre perishing and rear suspension corrosion, characterises this 2014 MINI Countryman's recent MOT history, although it has yet to fail a test. The most recent examination on 26 July 2026 was a pass, with advisories raised for slight damage, cracking, or perishing on both rear tyres. This continues a clear trend: the rear tyres have shown signs of perishing at multiple consecutive tests, and in 2025 the inspector noted corrosion on both rear coil springs. While these items remain advisory rather than failure territory, the consistent reappearance of the same degradation across the same axle points towards ongoing environmental exposure and age-related material deterioration that a prospective buyer should not dismiss as cosmetic. With 57,586 miles recorded over twelve years, this Countryman averages roughly 4,800 miles annually, which is notably low for the model and its age bracket. The MOT testing history is continuous with no gaps, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular, albeit light, use rather than being laid up for extended periods. Lower annual mileage of this nature typically reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and transmission internals. However, it can also accelerate certain peripheral degradations — notably rubber and polymer perishing on tyres and exposed suspension components — because shorter journeys and prolonged standing allow surface oxidation and UV degradation to take hold without the components being heavily worked. The annual increments between tests are modest and steady, with no evidence of rapid accumulation that would suggest motorway mileage or towing duty. For a prospective buyer, the rear axle should be the focus of a physical inspection. The advisories on both rear coil springs and rear tyres over consecutive tests warrant a close look at the spring seats and the lower suspension links for any flaking or advanced surface corrosion, as progression from surface rust to structural compromise can be rapid on a vehicle of this age, particularly one that may have seen winter road salt. Listen for any clonking or knocking from the rear over uneven surfaces, and check for uneven tyre wear which could indicate weakened springs allowing the car to sit low on one side. Inspect both rear tyres for cracking in the sidewalls and tread blocks, as perishing of this nature can fail a future MOT regardless of remaining tread depth, and confirm the DOT date codes to ensure the replacements are not themselves approaching six years of age. The braking system also requires attention, given the 2024 advisories showing front brake pads at 3mm and rear pads at 2mm. Two years on, the pads are almost certainly approaching or past minimum serviceable thickness, and the discs should be inspected for lipping, scoring, or corrosion pitting, particularly if the vehicle has been used predominantly for short journeys. On a test drive, expect a firm brake pedal without excessive travel, listen for any grinding or scraping from the calipers, and watch for judder under firm braking which would indicate warped discs. The front tyres were also flagged for perishing in 2024, so a full four-corner tyre inspection is essential, paying particular attention to the age of the rubber and any sidewall cracking that might have developed since the last test.