2009 MINI 1.4L Petrol · LM59 AYC

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of recurring mechanical neglect. While it passed the most recent test on 19 December 2025 at 88,086 miles, this followed a failure just three months prior at the same mileage. The transition from significant emissions failures and lighting issues in previous tests to a pass suggests that the vehicle is only maintained when necessary to pass legal inspections rather than through proactive preventative care. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 88,086 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 5,200 miles per year. However, the data shows a recent spike in usage, with 8,156 miles covered between September 2024 and December 2025. This sudden burst of activity after periods of lower mileage often accelerates the degradation of rubber components, seals, and fluids, which is consistent with the persistent oil leak noted in every test record from August 2024 through to late 2025. A buyer must prioritise a close inspection of the engine health, as the record shows multiple failed hydrocarbon, carbon monoxide, and lambda readings in both 2024 and 2025. These failures indicate poor combustion efficiency and potentially a failing catalytic converter or oxygen sensor. Furthermore, the persistent front oil leak, though described as not excessive, requires a physical check to determine if it originates from a simple gasket or a more costly internal seal failure. The braking and suspension systems also require scrutiny. The December 2025 test flagged a slightly distorted offside front road wheel, which likely resulted from an impact and could affect handling or cause premature bearing wear. Combined with the August 2024 warning that the front brakes only just met imbalance requirements, an inspector should check for seized calipers or uneven pad wear to ensure the braking system is not nearing a point of mechanical failure.