2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · NU04 AXJ

The most recent MOT on 7 November 2022 at 137,871 miles recorded a failure, chiefly for a near‑side rear suspension arm pin or bush deemed likely to detach, corroded rear coil springs, an excessively worn off‑side front suspension arm ball joint and a tyre worn close to the legal limit. The pattern of repeated failures from 2014 through 2022, especially the recurring corrosion of brake pipes and suspension wear, indicates a worsening maintenance trend rather than a stabilising one. At 22 years old the vehicle has accumulated 137,871 miles, averaging roughly 6,300 miles per year. Between 28 April 2014 (71,789 miles) and the 7 November 2022 test the mileage rose by about 66,000 miles, equating to roughly 8,250 miles annually – a noticeable increase compared with the earlier, slower accrual. No large mileage gaps appear in the record; the odometer progression is consistent, suggesting continuous use rather than prolonged storage. A prospective buyer should give priority to the rear suspension assembly, confirming that the near‑side arm pin and bush are secure and that both coil springs are free of corrosion. Inspection of all ball joints, especially the off‑side front joint flagged in 2022, is essential. The front and rear brake discs, pipes and hoses should be examined for pitting, corrosion and any binding of the service brake, as similar issues were noted in multiple tests. Tyre condition warrants close scrutiny; the near‑side rear tyre was repeatedly near the legal limit, and a front tyre tear was recorded in 2020. Finally, verify the integrity of the fuel‑cap seal, look for any oil leak at the engine block, and ensure the steering column attachment – previously deemed defective in 2019 – has been repaired, as its failure poses a structural risk.