1989 Rover MINI 1.0L Petrol · G161 AEF

The 2026‑05‑20 MOT passed the vehicle, confirming that it remains roadworthy despite the recorded advisories of a worn front suspension arm pin or bush, worn front sub‑frame rubber and trailing arm rubbers. No major mechanical failures were noted, indicating a stable maintenance trend with only minor wear progressing since the 2020 test, which showed no defects. At 97,927 miles the Mini is 37 years old, averaging only about 2,650 miles per year, which points to light use or extended periods of inactivity. Mileage rose sharply between 2015 and 2016 (89,424 to 96,231 miles) and then slowed, while gaps such as the 2018‑2019 interval with just 84 miles recorded suggest the vehicle may have been stored for lengthy stretches. A buyer should focus on the front suspension geometry, as repeated wear of the arm pin or bush and trailing arm rubber wear indicate potential looseness in the front sub‑frame and compromised handling. Recurrent play in suspension components, including rear wheel bearing excess and corrosion of subframe mounting areas noted in earlier tests, warrants close inspection of the chassis integrity and bushings. Additional checks should cover the oil leak history, brake calipers and discs for binding or judder, and the condition of the rear tyres, which have shown cuts reaching the ply in the latest test. Verification of the registration plate, hazard warning switch and washer system is also advisable, given their prior failures.