2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · EK54 ORY

The maintenance trend for this 2004 MINI is currently worsening, shifting from a clean pass in late 2024 to a failed test in October 2025 before a subsequent pass later that month. The most recent test on 2025-10-22 at 96,816 miles passed, but the tester flagged persistent structural corrosion and ongoing fluid leaks. All coil springs are corroded, and both rear trailing arms plus the sub-frame show corrosion, though the tester deemed them not seriously weakened at this stage. An oil leak and power steering seepage persist across multiple tests, indicating the previous owner deferred basic mechanical repairs. The tester also noted a non-functioning reverse lamp and a nail in the nearside rear tyre, pointing to neglected minor consumables. Covering roughly 4,401 miles per year, the 96,816-mile total reflects unusually light use for a 22-year-old vehicle. The record shows steady accumulation rather than rapid spikes, adding 4,996 miles between September 2023 at 87,907 miles and October 2024 at 92,820 miles, then just 127 miles before the October 2025 failure at 96,689 miles. This minimal recent mileage suggests the car spent long periods stationary, which often accelerates corrosion on suspension components and brake surfaces. The low mileage spares high-consumable wear, yet the recurring tyre damage and structural rust indicate storage conditions or maintenance routines were less than ideal. A buyer must inspect the undercarriage closely. The recurring corrosion on the coil springs, rear trailing arms, and sub-frame requires verification of structural integrity, as surface rust can hide deeper pitting on a 22-year-old chassis. The tester flagged a severely deteriorated offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover in October 2025, which likely allows grease egress and water ingress, risking joint failure. Brake pipes also demand scrutiny; the tester noted an offside rear pipe at imminent risk of fracture in October 2024, alongside front-to-rear pipes covered in grease and corrosion in September 2023. The persistent oil leak and power steering seepage from the rack and pipes need immediate attention to prevent fluid loss and compromised steering. Finally, check the condition of the remaining tyres, as the history shows repeated cuts reaching the ply and punctures, suggesting the previous owner skipped basic wheel care.