2009 MINI 1.6L Petrol · FP09 TSX

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 November 2025 resulted in a Pass, although two advisories were issued for both the nearside and offside front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but carries a few persistent concerns that have surfaced repeatedly rather than being definitively resolved. The 2020 test recorded an exhaust gas leak, worn front anti-roll bar D bushes, pitted front brake discs, and underside corrosion, all of which were advisories at the time. The 2023 test then noted deterioration to the offside steering rack gaiter, which subsequently worsened to a Major failure on the nearside gaiter in October 2024 alongside a defective offside front position lamp. The vehicle passed a retest on the same day after those items were addressed, and the 2025 test was clean apart from the tyre advisories, suggesting the owner has been attending to issues as they arise but the underlying wear pattern of the front-end components is characteristic of a car of this age and mileage. The recorded mileage of 100,318 miles over approximately 17 years equates to around 5,900 miles per year, which is well below the national average and points to a vehicle that has either been used sparingly as a second car or has spent extended periods standing between uses. The MOT record is reasonably consistent year on year, with no obvious gaps that would suggest the vehicle was off the road for prolonged periods, but the relatively low annual mileage means many components will have aged in calendar terms rather than through heavy mechanical use. This is particularly relevant for rubber and fluid-based items, which degrade with time regardless of how few miles are covered. Given the advisories recorded over the years, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. The history of steering rack gaiter failure indicates that the rack itself should be inspected for any signs of fluid leakage, and the gaiters on both sides should be examined for splits or perished rubber. The worn front anti-roll bar D bushes and pitted front brake discs noted in 2020 are common wear items on a MINI of this age, so the buyer should listen for clonks or knocking from the front end over speed humps and during cornering, and feel for brake shudder or vibration under firm pedal pressure, which would suggest the discs have worn further and may need replacement. The exhaust leak flagged in 2020 should be confirmed as having been properly rectified, and the underside corrosion advisory warrants a careful inspection of the rear subframe and surrounding structural areas for any progression of rust that could compromise integrity. Beyond the items highlighted in the MOT history, the low annual mileage and age of the vehicle mean several age-related checks are essential before purchase. Tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for cracking or perishing, even if the tread depth remains adequate, as old rubber can fail suddenly regardless of mileage. The 12-volt battery should be tested, as batteries that have stood partially discharged are prone to sudden failure. Brake calipers that have remained unused for long periods can seize, so the wheels should be spun with the car jacked to confirm the discs rotate freely without binding. Coolant, brake fluid, and the manual transmission or automated manual gearbox fluid should all be considered due for replacement on a time basis rather than purely mileage, and a full service history with evidence of recent fluid changes would significantly strengthen confidence in this particular example.