2009 MINI 1.6L Petrol · LC09 FPO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the recent inspection history shows a worsening trend regarding mechanical and structural integrity. While it passed the most recent test on 23 May 2026 at 68,554 miles, this followed a failure just three weeks prior. That failure revealed a major front exhaust leak and multiple exhaust emission failures, including high carbon monoxide and lambda readings. This sequence indicates that while repairs were made to satisfy the legal standard, the engine management or exhaust system is experiencing significant issues that were not previously present. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 17-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,000 miles per year. However, there are notable gaps in usage, such as the fourteen-month period between October 2022 and December 2023, and the seven-month gap between November 2024 and May 2025. This low-frequency use often correlates with age-related degradation of components, evidenced by the perished rear tyres noted in 2017 and the persistent corrosion of the suspension components despite the low total distance driven. A buyer must prioritize a structural inspection of the front and rear subframes, as the tester flagged corrosion on both during the December 2025 test at 68,530 miles. This is a critical area where rust can lead to structural failure if left untreated. Furthermore, the record shows a recurring pattern of brake issues, including binding calipers, imbalanced shoes, and worn discs noted across 2019, 2022, and 2025. The corrosion on the nearside front coil spring reported in both 2023 and 2024 also requires a physical check to ensure it has not reached a point of structural fatigue.