2017 MINI Cooper 1.5L Petrol · ST17 WHU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the most recent test indicates a lapse in basic maintenance. While it passed the MOT on 11 May 2026 at 35,852 miles, it initially failed due to a nearside front tyre with tread depth below the legal 1.6mm limit and perishing on both rear tyres. This represents a shift from the perfectly clean-record trend seen in the previous three years, suggesting that the owner recently neglected consumable replacements leading up to the latest inspection. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a nine-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 4,000 miles per year. Between May 2023 and May 2026, the car covered only 1,621 miles, moving from 34,231 to 35,852 miles. This low usage explains the minimal wear on the engine and drivetrain, but it also explains the rubber perishing noted in the 2026 test. Rubber components degrade over time due to age and environmental exposure regardless of how many miles the vehicle has driven. A buyer should physically inspect the condition of all four tyres for sidewall cracking and flat spotting, as the record confirms the rear pair is already showing signs of age. Because the car sits for long periods, it is vital to check the brake discs for corrosion and seized calipers, which are common in low-mileage cars. The lack of structural rust or suspension defects in the history suggests a generally sound chassis, but the aged bushings and rubber seals should be examined to ensure they have not become brittle during the long intervals between use.