2022 MINI Cooper 1.5L Petrol · FV22 AAE

This MINI Cooper’s most recent MOT, conducted just three months ago on 14 May 2026 at 16,144 miles, reveals a stable but inconsistent maintenance record. The vehicle passed the test without defects, yet the same session also recorded two failures related to windscreen wiper functionality—a pattern that suggests either a recurring oversight in basic upkeep or a mechanical issue with the wiper motors or linkage. The absence of structural or safety-critical faults in the latest test indicates no immediate cause for alarm regarding suspension, brakes, or exhaust emissions. However, the repeated failures on wipers imply a lack of attention to minor but essential consumable components, which could escalate if ignored. The vehicle’s mileage progression, averaging around 4,036 miles annually, is unusually low for its age, particularly given the 2022 model year. This suggests either very light usage or prolonged periods of storage, which can accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and rubber components. The gap between tests—12 months between the 2025 and 2026 MOTs—is standard, but the earlier failures in May 2025 on front tyres (a nail penetration and a cut exceeding legal limits) highlight a critical lapse in tyre maintenance. Failing twice on tread integrity within a single test cycle indicates either a rushed inspection or deliberate neglect, as both issues were likely present before the test date. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate visual and functional inspection of the front tyres, verifying there are no further cuts, bulges, or embedded debris. The wiper failures from May 2026 warrant testing the operation of both near- and offside wipers under running water, as persistent motor or linkage faults can impair visibility in adverse weather. Given the low mileage, attention should also be directed towards fluid levels—brake, power steering, and coolant—and the condition of suspension bushes, coil springs, and steering rack boots, which may degrade even with minimal use. The absence of advisories in recent tests suggests no hidden structural corrosion or drivetrain issues, but a thorough underbody check for rust around wheel arches and sills remains advisable.