2004 MINI 1.4L Diesel · LG04 YTP

The current roadworthiness status of this vehicle is critical, as the most recent MOT test conducted on 8 January 2026 resulted in a failure at 166,309 miles. While the preceding three annual tests between 2023 and 2025 yielded clean passes, the sudden failure without recorded defects suggests an administrative issue or a severe mechanical fault that prevented the vehicle from meeting basic inspection standards. This reversal after a period of stability indicates a concerning shift in the vehicle's reliability profile, particularly given the high total mileage. The vehicle has covered 166,309 miles over its 22-year lifespan, averaging approximately 7,560 miles annually. This rate of use is consistent with typical long-term ownership, though the jump from 151,079 miles in January 2025 to 166,309 miles in January 2026 represents an accumulation of over 15,000 miles in a single year. This is a significant increase compared to the modest 5,000 miles added between 2023 and 2024. Such intensive recent use may have accelerated wear on high-mileage components that were previously dormant. Prospective buyers must prioritise a thorough inspection of the drivetrain and chassis, as the lack of recorded advisories in the history is unusual for a vehicle of this age and mileage. You should specifically examine the suspension bushes, ball joints, and coil springs for signs of fatigue or perished rubber, as these components often deteriorate unnoticed until they fail. Check the subframes and sills for structural corrosion, as these areas are prone to rust on this generation of MINI. Given the recent test failure, verify the current status of the braking system, including the condition of the discs and the presence of any binding calipers, to ensure the vehicle is fit for the road.