2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · FV04 CFA

This MINI has maintained a stable roadworthiness record over the past two years, with the most recent MOT passing on 18 October 2024—just nine months ago—at 147,227 miles. The absence of defects across all tests since 2022 suggests the vehicle has been kept in a consistent condition, though the single failure in October 2023 (a retest immediately passed) indicates a minor oversight rather than a recurring mechanical flaw. No advisories or repeated issues appear in the record, which is unusual for a vehicle of this age, implying either diligent servicing or a history of well-maintained components. The latest test date, however, means the vehicle has not undergone an official inspection for nearly a year, a period during which wear on suspension bushes, brake pads, and tyres could have progressed. The mileage progression shows a steady accumulation of approximately 13,800 miles annually since 2022, which aligns with typical usage patterns for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps or abrupt jumps in mileage, though the retest in October 2023—just six days after the initial failure—suggests the owner addressed the issue promptly. The most recent MOT was conducted at 147,227 miles, meaning the vehicle has covered roughly 3,856 miles since its last inspection, a distance that could stress components like brake discs, suspension linkages, and exhaust systems if maintenance has been deferred. The lack of pre-MOT servicing records means potential wear on items like differential fluid, timing belt (if applicable), or power steering hoses cannot be confirmed. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the suspension, particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, as these are common wear items that may not have been formally assessed since 2024. The brakes, while not flagged in tests, should be checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the rear discs—especially if the vehicle has been driven in wet conditions. Structural integrity is another critical area; a thorough examination of the sills, wheel arches, and subframe for corrosion or damage is essential, given the vehicle’s age. Tyre tread depth and uniformity should also be verified, as the absence of MOT failures does not guarantee they have been consistently replaced. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive rust, as emissions-related components often degrade silently over time.