2017 MINI Cooper 1.5L Petrol · NV67 CVE

The most recent MOT test on 2025-11-28 confirms the vehicle passed without defects, though the preceding test just one day earlier revealed critical failings that were rectified before the final pass. This suggests a last-minute correction of urgent issues, primarily related to tyres and windscreen wipers, rather than an overall improvement in maintenance. The recurring pattern of tyre-related failures—both tread depth and perishing—indicates a chronic neglect of basic upkeep, while the 2022 advisory on rear brake pads highlights a trend of progressive wear that may not have been addressed consistently. The absence of structural or drivetrain advisories in the latest tests is a positive, but the history of repeated tyre and wiper failures underscores a lack of diligent servicing. The vehicle’s mileage progression shows unusually low annual mileage, averaging just over 4,000 miles per year since 2017, which is well below the typical range for a car of this age. The gaps between tests are consistent, with annual MOTs recorded in December each year, suggesting the vehicle was either lightly used or stored for extended periods. Notably, the jump from 25,628 miles in 2022 to 28,473 miles in 2023 represents a slower accumulation than the preceding years, which could imply reduced usage or a temporary pause in operation. While low mileage generally correlates with less wear on high-stress components, the repeated tyre and wiper failures contradict this benefit, indicating that even minimal use did not prevent basic maintenance oversights. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the tyres, focusing on the rear axles where perishing was flagged in 2022 and 2024, as well as the front tyres, which have shown consistent wear approaching the legal limit. The 2022 advisory on rear brake pads warrants verification of current pad thickness and disc condition, as thin pads left unaddressed could lead to binding calipers or uneven wear. The windscreen wipers, particularly the near-side front blade, should be checked for splits or degradation, as this failure recurred in 2025. While the suspension and structural integrity appear unremarkable in the MOT history, a thorough examination of the wheel arches and underbody for corrosion—common in MINI models—is advisable, given the vehicle’s age and exposure history. The absence of exhaust emissions or structural advisories in recent tests is reassuring, but the overall trend of deferred maintenance suggests a need for cautious verification of less obvious components.