2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · FT04 MJK

The February 2023 MOT at 110,201 miles passed with no defects, confirming current roadworthiness and indicating a stable maintenance trend since the February 2022 test, which also recorded no defects. Earlier failures in February 2022 were limited to a loose front track rod end ball joint, a minor exhaust leak and an out‑of‑spec Lambda reading, all of which were rectified before the subsequent test. The mileage trajectory shows a modest increase from 27,384 miles in July 2011 to 110,201 miles in February 2023, averaging roughly 5,000 miles per year, which is low for a 22‑year‑old vehicle and suggests periods of limited use. The record is continuous, with annual tests from 2010 through 2023 and no extended gaps, though the jump from 98,920 miles in February 2022 to 110,201 miles in February 2023 represents an accumulation of 11,281 miles in a single year. A buyer should therefore focus on the suspension components that have repeatedly shown wear: the front track rod end ball joint, rear and front suspension arm pins and bushes, and the trailing arm bush, all of which have exhibited slight to excessive play in earlier tests. Inspection of the brake system is essential, given the recurring corrosion of front and rear brake pipes noted from 2021 onward, which can lead to binding calipers or pipe failure. The buyer should examine the exhaust system for the minor leak recorded in February 2022 and look for any signs of structural rust on chassis rails or suspension mounting points. Although oil leaks have appeared intermittently since 2016, they have not been classified as defects, but the buyer should verify the source of any oil seepage and ensure that the rear power steering ram seal is intact, as indicated by the 2011 advisory. Overall, the vehicle appears roadworthy now, but the history of suspension play and brake pipe corrosion warrants a thorough in‑person mechanical assessment before purchase.