2009 MINI 1.4L Petrol · SM09 HDD

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in August 2025 at 69,353 miles was a pass, it followed a significant failure just three weeks prior. The trend shows that critical issues are only addressed when they reach an MOT failure threshold, evidenced by the recurring presence of worn components and structural corrosion that persist across multiple testing cycles until forced into a repair. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 69,353 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 4,080 miles per year. This low rate of use often leads to age-related degradation rather than mechanical wear from distance. The data supports this, with perishing and cracking tyres noted in 2023 and structural rust and brake failures appearing in 2024. The gap of nearly 9,000 miles between July 2023 and July 2024 suggests the car sits for long periods, which likely accelerates corrosion on rubber components and hydraulic lines. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front sub-frame, as the corrosion flagged in both 2024 and 2025 indicates a developing structural issue that will eventually fail. The braking system shows a history of neglect, with multiple reports of pitted discs, thin pads, and corroded brake pipes. You should verify that the recent repairs following the July 2025 failure included all necessary hardware replacements, as the tester repeatedly noted binding and worn components in previous years. The emissions failures in 2024 and 2025 suggest potential engine management issues or incomplete combustion common in low-mileage vehicles sitting idle. Given the history of structural tears and exposed ply cords, the state of all rubber bushings and tyre sidewalls must be checked for deep cracking. This vehicle requires a thorough mechanical review to ensure that the low mileage has not masked deep-seated decay in the suspension or braking architecture.