2022 MINI Cooper 1.5L Petrol · NG22 CPU

The 2022 MINI COOPER presents a broadly positive roadworthiness picture on the strength of its official DVSA test history. The most recent examination on 17 July 2026 resulted in a pass, with only two advisories issued, both relating to slight perishing or cracking of the rear tyres. The previous test on 17 July 2025 was completely clean, recording no advisories or defects. There is therefore no evidence of a worsening maintenance trend or any recurring mechanical concerns; the absence of structural advisories, brake warnings, or exhaust or suspension defects indicates that the car has been maintained to a satisfactory standard through its early life. The fact that only advisory-level tyre condition notes were raised is typical for a vehicle of this age and mileage and does not constitute a failure point. With 24,539 miles accumulated over approximately four years, this MINI is averaging around 6,135 miles annually, which sits squarely within the typical usage band for a modern small car in the UK. There are no large unexplained gaps between recorded mileages, and no evidence of either unusually low use that might have led to long stationary periods or excessive accumulation that would accelerate wear on major mechanical components. This balanced usage pattern is favourable for a buyer, as it suggests the clutch, brakes, tyres, suspension components, and drivetrain will have experienced reasonable working stress without being subjected to extreme duty cycles. The mileage is sufficiently modest that significant wear items such as timing chain replacement, clutch refurbishment, or major suspension overhaul are unlikely to be imminent. Because the MOT record is otherwise clean, a prospective buyer should focus on age- and mileage-related condition checks rather than chasing specific known defects. The two rear-tyre advisories are worth scrutinising closely: examine both rear tyres in person for sidewall cracking, perishing, and any bulges or cuts, as rubber degrades with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and confirm that replacements were fitted with matching load and speed ratings suitable for a MINI Cooper. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocks over uneven roads, particularly from the rear, and check for uneven rear tyre wear which could indicate tracking misalignment or worn rear axle bushes. Pay attention to brake pedal feel and any vibration through the steering wheel under braking, as even lightly used cars can suffer brake disc corrosion or binding calipers from periods of standing, and inspect the visible disc edges for a pronounced lip of rust. Beyond the items raised at MOT, it is prudent to verify the full service history stamp trail in the book, ideally confirming that the MINI has been serviced in line with the manufacturer’s condition-based servicing schedule, including brake fluid replacement every two years irrespective of mileage. Given the car is approaching four years old, the original 12-volt battery may be nearing the end of its service life, so confirm its age and test its resting voltage. Check the coolant and confirm the air conditioning system functions correctly, as seals and condensers can deteriorate with age. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for any signs of corrosion at mounting points and joints, examine the underside for fluid leaks or rust around suspension components, and verify the operation of all electronic systems, including infotainment, parking sensors, and driver aids, to satisfy yourself that this low-mileage example remains in the sound mechanical condition its MOT record suggests.