2008 MINI 1.6L Petrol · LJ57 AHC
2008 MINI (1.6L, petrol). First registered 14 Feb 2008. Recorded mileage 110,638 miles. MOT valid until 14 Jan 2027. Taxed until 01 Jan 2027.
- Make & Model
- MINI MINI
- Year / Origin
- 2008 · Wimbledon (South London)
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 14 Jan 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Jan 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 110,638 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
LJ57 AHC Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 15/01/2026
- 110,638 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
LJ57 AHC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2008 Mini Mini (LJ57 AHC) between May 2023 and January 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 15 January 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (2 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Oil leaking excessively from engine (8.4.1 (a) (i))”; “Exhaust emissions exceed manufacturer's specified limit (8.2.2.2 (a))”; “Emissions unable to be completed CO level in excess of 9.38% (8.2.1.2 (d))”.
LJ57 AHC Mileage History
- 20/05/2023104,727 mi
- 21/10/2024108,464 mi+3,737 mi
- 24/10/2024108,478 mi+14 mi
- 28/10/2025110,509 mi+2,031 mi
- 15/01/2026110,638 mi+129 mi
Average of roughly 2,223 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution or avoid this vehicle. While the MINI remains a stylish classic, the recent history of major engine oil leaks, emissions failures, and structural corrosion suggests a history of poor reactive maintenance.
If you are considering this car, a professional inspection is non-negotiable, specifically focusing on the engine's health. The 'excessive' oil leak noted in October 2025 suggests a potential head gasket or valve cover issue that could be expensive to rectify. You should also ask for a full service history; the MOT history shows frequent failures for basic items like tyres and brakes, which suggests the owner has only maintained the car when forced by the law.
Negotiate aggressively based on the sub-frame corrosion mentioned. While currently described as 'not seriously weakened', rust on these models tends to progress quickly and will eventually cause an MOT failure if not treated. Ensure the engine engine management light (MIL) is not illuminated, as this was a major failure in 2024 and could indicate deeper electronic sensor or ECU issues.
The 1.6L petrol engine is relatively efficient for city driving, likely yielding around 40-45 MPG depending on driving style. As a 2008 model, it should fall into a mid-range tax band and insurance group depending on your profile.
Maintenance costs for this generation of MINI can be higher than a standard city hatchback due to specialised parts. Given the history of frequent failures, you should budget for annual costs—including fuel, tax, insurance, and repairs—between £1,200 and £1,500.
Look closely under the engine for signs of fresh oil, as the MOT history has progressed from 'not excessive' to 'excessive' leaks in just one year. Check the exhaust system for smoke or soot, as the car recently failed emissions tests, likely indicating a failing catalytic converter or oxygen sensor.
Inspect the front and rear sub-frames for bubbling rust. The advisories from 2024 indicate the structural integrity is starting to degrade. Additionally, check the condition of the tyres and brakes immediately; the vehicle has a history of presenting with 'dangerous' defects in these areas, suggesting a lack of proactive care.
This 2008 MINI Cooper has covered over 110,000 miles, which is slightly above the average for its age, but its MOT record reveals a concerning pattern of neglect. Recent failures include excessive oil leaks and high emissions, following previous dangerous safety failures like exposed tyre cords and bald brakes. The presence of advisories for sub-frame corrosion indicates that significant structural repair costs may be looming in the near future.
The 2008 1.6L MINI engine is known for potential oil pump failures and timing chain wear if oil intervals are not maintained.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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