2018 MINI Cooper S 2.0L Petrol · LS68 VKO

The vehicle remains roadworthy having passed its most recent MOT in February 2026 at 36,337 miles. However, the maintenance trend shows a worsening pattern regarding age-related wear and tear. While the car passed the test, the tester flagged both thin rear brake pads and a perished nearside rear outer tyre. This indicates a shift from the clean records seen in previous years to a stage where components are now requiring immediate attention. The mileage profile is notably low for an eight-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,500 miles per year. The data shows consistent but low-frequency usage between 2022 and 2026, with a gap of 5,707 miles recorded between the February 2025 and February 2026 tests. This low mileage often suggests less mechanical strain on the engine and drivetrain, but it frequently leads to the degradation of rubber-based components, which is evidenced by the recurring advisories for cracking and perished tyres despite the low tread depth. A buyer must prioritise inspecting the full set of tyres, as the record shows persistent surface cracking and perishing across 2024, 2025, and 2026. These issues are typical of a vehicle sitting for long periods rather than being driven frequently. The presence of thin rear brake pads in the latest February 2026 test also necessitates a thorough check of the brake discs for pitting or corrosion caused by inactivity. Given the low mileage, the inspector should also verify the suspension bushings and rubber hoses for cracks, as these materials can age and fail even when the car is not regularly used.