2005 MINI 1.6L Petrol · LM54 VGZ
2005 MINI (1.6L, petrol). First registered 18 Jan 2005. Recorded mileage 52,320 miles. MOT valid until 13 Mar 2027. Taxed until 01 May 2027.
- Make & Model
- MINI MINI
- Year / Origin
- 2005 · Wimbledon (South London)
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 13 Mar 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 May 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 52,320 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Likely ULEZ Compliant (Early 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.
LM54 VGZ Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 14/03/2026
- 52,320 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
LM54 VGZ 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 2005 Mini Mini (LM54 VGZ) between March 2024 and March 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 14 March 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: Lighting (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 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: “Offside Front Upper Anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Nearside Front Upper Anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”; “Offside Front Inner Drive shaft joint constant velocity boot split or insecure, no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (”.
LM54 VGZ Mileage History
- 01/03/202448,269 mi
- 05/03/202448,278 mi+9 mi
- 27/02/202549,588 mi+1,310 mi
- 27/02/202549,589 mi+1 mi
- 14/03/202652,320 mi+2,731 mi
Average of roughly 1,992 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 caution but consider this a
When inspecting this 1.6L petrol MINI, pay close attention to the suspension and drivetrain components. The MOT history shows that in February 2025, both nearside and offside inner drive shaft CV boots and anti-roll bar ball joint covers failed. You should verify that these specific parts were replaced and that there are no signs of grease leakage around the joints.
Additionally, the 2024 failure regarding fractured Macpherson strut mountings is a known area of concern for this era of MINI. Check for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces, as this can indicate issues with the strut assemblies. Given the recent advisory regarding product on the headlamp lenses, check that the light output is clear and that the lenses are not significantly oxidised.
With a 1598cc petrol engine, running costs will be moderate for a small car. Fuel economy will depend on driving style, but you should expect typical figures for a 2005 petrol MINI. Tax and insurance groups for this model vary depending on the specific trim level, but it generally sits in a mid-range bracket for older hatchbacks.
Maintenance costs for this vehicle may be influenced by the age of the rubber components, as seen in the CV boot and ball joint failures. Budget for regular inspections of suspension bushings and drive shaft components to avoid sudden MOT failures. The estimated annual running cost is roughly £1,100-£1,400, including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance.
Focus your inspection on the front suspension and drivetrain. Specifically, look for evidence of recent work on the inner drive shaft CV boots and the anti-roll bar ball joints, as these were the primary reasons for failure in the 2025 MOT. Ensure the boots are intact and free from splits or grease residue.
Because the vehicle previously failed on fractured Macpherson strut mountings, inspect the top of the struts for any signs of movement or noise. Finally, examine the headlamp lenses; the 2026 MOT noted a product on the lens, so ensure this does not impair visibility during a night test drive.
This 2005 silver MINI (LM54VGZ) has covered 52,320 miles, which is significantly lower than the model average of 4,512 miles per year. The MOT history shows a pattern of mechanical failures related to boots and mountings in 2024 and 2025, though the most recent test in March 2026 was a pass. The vehicle's mileage is a standout feature, but the history of component failures suggests regular inspection of the underside is necessary.
Aggregate data for this model shows a 75.6% MOT pass rate, with common failure points including headlamps, tyres, and brake pipes.
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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