2007 MINI 1.6L Diesel · FD57 AHO

The 2026‑05‑01 MOT at 137,643 miles resulted in a pass, but the preceding 2026‑04‑30 test at the same mileage failed due to a serious fluid leak from the offside front shock absorber, a fractured near‑side rear coil spring and severe corrosion of the rear sub‑frame and near‑side front coil spring. This sequence shows a clear worsening trend in structural and suspension condition rather than stability or improvement. Mileage has risen from 126,081 miles in the April 2024 pass to 137,643 miles in the May 2026 test, an increase of 11,562 miles over roughly two years, equivalent to about 5,800 miles per year. The interval between the April 2025 pass (132,540 miles) and the May 2026 pass is 5,103 miles in 13 months, indicating consistent use, while the short gap between the April 30 failure and the May 1 pass suggests the vehicle may have been stationary or subjected to heavy loads shortly before the retest. Recurring faults include persistent corrosion of coil springs, a fractured rear spring, leaking shock absorbers, and binding rear brakes, all of which point to deteriorating suspension components and potential structural weakness. Tyre wear has been noted as close to the legal limit in multiple tests, and windscreen damage, while not impairing vision, remains a recurring advisory. A buyer should therefore inspect the rear sub‑frame and all coil springs for rust and cracks, test the shock absorbers for fluid leakage and proper damping, examine the rear brake assembly for binding and disc condition, verify tyre tread depth and edge wear, and look for any signs of fluid loss or structural deformation that could affect roadworthiness.