1992 Rover MINI 1.3L Petrol · K605 DDC

A persistent oil leak has been recorded at every inspection since February 2022, marking a chronic issue alongside recurring exhaust leaks and tyre degradation. While the vehicle passed its most recent test on 6 February 2026, the record shows a pattern of recurring advisories for front exhaust leaks and worn tyres. Previous failures include a major fuel hose leak in 2025 and multiple lighting faults in 2024, suggesting a trend of component deterioration that frequently requires remedial work just prior to testing. The recorded mileage of 73,698 miles over 34 years equates to an average annual usage of approximately 2,168 miles. This low rate of accumulation is consistent with the specific defects observed in the MOT history, particularly the perishing and cracking of tyre sidewalls and the failure of a fuel hose. Such usage patterns typically lead to the degradation of rubber seals, hoses, and consumables through age-related atrophy rather than mechanical wear from high mileage. Particular attention must be paid to the braking system and steering gear. Brake discs have been flagged as worn, pitted, or scored across multiple years, and there was a recorded instance of play in the offside front steering rack inner joint in 2024. During a test drive, feel for any vagueness or instability in the steering and listen for knocks when traversing uneven surfaces. Check for pedal judder or inconsistent braking pressure, which would correlate with the history of pitted and worn discs. The recurring oil leak and exhaust issues require physical verification. Inspect the engine bay and underside for active oil misting or dripping, and listen for a distinct rasp or hiss from the front exhaust section. Given the 2025 failure for a leaking fuel hose, a thorough inspection of all fuel lines for cracks or seepage is necessary. Ensure the engine mounting is secure, as a damaged upper mounting was previously noted, which can manifest as excessive engine movement during gear changes or acceleration.