2022 MINI Cooper S 2.0L Petrol · CF71 WFJ

The most recent DVSA examination on 27 May 2026 resulted in a clean pass with a single advisory note concerning an offside rear child seat preventing full inspection of the adult belt. This is a situational observation rather than a mechanical defect, and it carries no roadworthiness concern for the prospective buyer. Looking at the broader trend across the recorded tests, the vehicle demonstrates a stable and well-maintained pattern overall. The lone failure recorded on 21 January 2025, which was the result of a nearside front tyre falling below the legal 1.6mm tread depth, was addressed immediately as evidenced by the pass the following day. With the exception of a minor windscreen chip noted on both January 2025 entries, the vehicle has shown no recurring mechanical, structural, or corrosion-related issues across its MOT history, indicating that the owner has kept on top of consumable replacement. The recorded mileage of 25,820 miles over a four-year period equates to an annual average of roughly 6,455 miles, which sits squarely within typical usage parameters for a car of this age. There is no evidence of either prolonged standing or excessive high-mileage accumulation, both of which would carry their own respective concerns. The mileage progression between MOT tests suggests the vehicle is being used regularly for mixed driving, which is generally beneficial for maintaining component health, particularly for items such as the brake system, exhaust, drivetrain, and 12V battery. A consistent usage pattern like this typically translates to even wear across consumables rather than uneven degradation from irregular operation. Given the relatively modest annual mileage and the vehicle's age now standing at four years, there are several practical inspection points a prospective buyer should prioritise during a physical viewing and test drive. Tyre condition should be assessed carefully not only for remaining tread depth but also for sidewall perishing or cracking, as tyres fitted several years ago can degrade from age even if the tread remains legal. Examine all four tyres for the DOT date code, looking for fitments older than five years, and check for uneven shoulder wear which could indicate suspension misalignment or worn bushes. The brake discs, particularly the rear units, should be inspected for surface corrosion and any evidence of binding calipers, given the modest annual mileage which can allow light surface rust to develop. On the test drive, listen for any suspension clunks or knocks over uneven surfaces, pay attention to brake pedal feel and any vibration or shudder under moderate application, and confirm that the car tracks straight without steering pull. Beyond the mechanical items, time-based servicing should be verified regardless of the odometer reading, as fluids degrade with calendar age. The brake fluid should have been renewed at least once given the car's age, and the coolant, transmission fluid, and spark plugs on this MINI Cooper S should be checked against the manufacturer's service schedule. Inspect the 12V battery for any signs of slow cranking, as four years is approaching the typical replacement interval, and verify the auxiliary battery condition if the vehicle is equipped with one, as MINIs of this era commonly suffer auxiliary battery failure. Confirm that the service book is fully stamped and cross-reference the work carried out with the mileage recorded, paying particular attention to whether the timing chain, known to be a wear item on MINI petrol engines, has been inspected or addressed. Finally, examine the underbody and suspension components for any signs of standing corrosion, ensure all exterior lighting functions correctly, and check that the recent tyre replacement was carried out in pairs to the same specification and brand to maintain balanced handling characteristics.