2001 MINI 1.6L Petrol · DG51 AOC
2001 MINI (1.6L, petrol). First registered 11 Sept 2001. Recorded mileage 104,805 miles. MOT expired on 03 Sept 2024.
- Make & Model
- MINI MINI
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Chester
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 03 Sept 2024
- Road Tax
- —
- Recorded Mileage
- 104,805 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Likely ULEZ Compliant (Early Euro 4)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
DG51 AOC Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 05/09/2023
- 104,805 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring windscreen items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
DG51 AOC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 Mini Mini (DG51 AOC) between March 2022 and September 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 05 September 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Windscreen (4 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Steering (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 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.
Recorded failure items include: “Driver's seat insecure (6.2.5 (a) (ii))”; “Exhaust Lambda reading after 2nd fast idle outside specified limits (8.2.1.2 (c))”; “Exhaust carbon monoxide content after 2nd fast idle exceeds manufacturer's specified limits (8.2.1.2 (a))”.
DG51 AOC Mileage History
- 15/03/2022103,472 mi
- 31/08/2022103,475 mi+3 mi
- 05/09/2023104,805 mi+1,330 mi
- 05/09/2023104,805 mi
Average of roughly 903 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
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
Caution advised for this high-mileage classic. While it remains an iconic drive, the MOT history shows recurring leaks and mechanical issues that suggest it may require significant investment to keep roadworthy.
When inspecting this first-generation MINI, prioritize the engine bay and underside. The history repeatedly mentions oil leaks, power steering fluid leaks, and anti-freeze leaks; check if these have been properly sealed or merely cleaned up. Pay close attention to the steering system, as previous tests noted 'stiff steering' and hose seepage, which could indicate a failing pump or rack.
Check the seats for structural integrity, given the 'dangerous' MOT failure in 2022, and ensure the windscreen has been replaced recently, as it has been a recurring minor defect for nearly five years. Ask for a full service history to confirm if the timing belt has been replaced, as this is a critical maintenance item for the 1598cc engine at this mileage.
The 1.6L petrol engine is relatively efficient for its era, likely yielding 40-45 mpg depending on driving style. As a 2001 vehicle, it falls into a lower tax band, but insurance groups can vary significantly based on driver age.
Maintenance costs for older MINIs can be high due to the age of the car and components like rubber hoses and seals becoming prone to perish. Expect an annual running cost including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance to be approximately £1,200-£1,500.
Perform a thorough check for fluid leaks. The MOT record shows a history of oil, power steering fluid, and coolant leaks. Look for fresh oil on the engine block and around the sump plug. Additionally, inspect the rear brake pipes for corrosion, which was specifically flagged in a previous test.
Examine the exhaust and emissions system. The history shows major failures for exhaust leaks and lambda readings in the past; ensure the exhaust is rust-free and the catalytic converter is functioning correctly. Finally, check the tyres for uneven wear, which has been a recurring advisory across multiple years.
This 2001 MINI Cooper has covered over 104,000 miles, placing it well above the average for its age. The service history reveals a pattern of mechanical wear, including recurring oil leaks, power steering fluid issues, and a dangerous failure related to an insecure seat. While it passed its most recent test, the persistent advisories for leaks and worn components indicate a vehicle that is nearing the end of its primary maintenance cycle.
The R53 generation is known for its superb handling but is prone to oil leaks and cooling-related issues as it ages.
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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