2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · RA04 UFG

The 2004 MINI presents a mixed maintenance trend, currently passing its most recent MOT in March 2026 at 111,151 miles, though the immediate preceding test a day earlier resulted in a failure. The tester flagged recurring headlamp aim defects and split wiper blades as minor issues, while an oil leak and minor exhaust gas leak persist as ongoing advisories. The rectification of the offside front suspension ball joint dust cover and the split constant velocity boot between the failed and passed tests indicates targeted mechanical repairs, yet the underlying pattern suggests a vehicle that receives patchy upkeep rather than consistent preventative maintenance. Accumulating 111,151 miles over 22 years equates to roughly 5,052 miles annually, confirming exceptionally light use. The mileage progression reveals a notable gap between March 2024 at 100,319 miles and March 2025 at 107,110 miles, representing an accumulation of approximately 6,791 miles in that single year. This sudden increase contrasts sharply with the low historical average and the subsequent mere 4-mile increment between the March 2025 and March 2026 tests, implying the vehicle spent significant periods stationary or that the 2025 mileage reading warrants scrutiny for a potential recording anomaly. A buyer must inspect the front suspension and drivetrain components closely. The repeated advisories regarding nearside and offside front suspension arm ball joint wear, alongside split anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers and constant velocity boots, point to degraded sealing against dirt ingress. Once compromised, these joints suffer accelerated wear and require prompt replacement to maintain structural integrity and steering precision. The tester also noted a hydraulic leak near the rack area in 2024, which demands a thorough inspection for fluid starvation or corrosion. The exhaust system requires immediate attention due to persistent minor gas leaks and insecure heat shields flagged across multiple tests. A failing exhaust can lead to harmful cabin fumes and accelerated deterioration of nearby underbody components. Beyond the mechanical faults, the repeated headlamp aim rejections and missing washers suggest previous owners neglected basic lighting compliance. Failing twice on wiper blades and registration plate lamps indicates basic upkeep was skipped, reinforcing the need for a comprehensive underbody and mechanical inspection before purchase.