2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · RL04 FET

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile with a worsening trend in structural integrity and mechanical neglect. While it passed its most recent test in September 2025 at 108,410 miles, the record reveals a recurring failure to address developing faults before testing deadlines. The persistence of an oil leak and corroded brake components across multiple years suggests an owner who performs only the minimum repairs required to pass an MOT rather than engaging in proactive preventative maintenance. At 22 years old, the recorded 108,410 miles represent a low-mileage usage pattern, averaging approximately 5,000 miles per year. However, the data gap between April 2023 and April 2024 shows a sudden accumulation of over 4,000 miles during which the vehicle went from a clean record to a significant failure involving a seriously weakened front sub-frame. This low annual mileage typically indicates the car may have sat for long periods, which often leads to the degradation of rubber components and accelerated corrosion, as seen in the brake line history. A physical inspection must prioritize the structural condition of the sub-frames. The 2024 failure flagged a seriously weakened front sub-frame, which was later noted as a corroded but stable rear sub-frame in 2025. A buyer must verify that the repairs to the front frame were structurally sound and not merely cosmetic. Furthermore, the braking system requires close scrutiny; the tester repeatedly flagged corroded brake pipes, deteriorated rear hoses, and a parking brake that barely met the efficiency threshold in 2024. These indicators suggest a system nearing the end of its functional life.