1969 Morris MINI Cooper 1.3L Petrol · THO 765H

The vehicle failed its most recent MOT test on 29 July 2026 at 100,480 miles, indicating a recent decline in maintenance standards. The tester identified missing steering rack gaiters on both the nearside and offside front, alongside a deteriorated front passenger door catch. This failure follows a period of relative stability after the 2022 test, but the recurrence of steering-related component degradation suggests that preventative maintenance on rubber gaiters and seals has been neglected. The mileage profile shows extremely low usage for a 57-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 1,763 miles per year. There is a significant four-year gap in recorded testing between August 2022 and July 2026, during which the vehicle covered only 1,771 miles. Such infrequent use and long periods of inactivity often contribute to the deterioration of rubber components, such as the steering rack gaiters and suspension ball joint dust covers, which appear to be a recurring issue throughout the history. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity due to a long-standing trend of corrosion. Records from 2012, 2014, and 2022 consistently flag corrosion on the sills, floorpans, and the rear subframe. While the 2022 advisory noted that the structural rigidity was not significantly reduced, the presence of ongoing corrosion in these integral areas requires careful physical verification to ensure it has not progressed beyond repairable levels. Mechanical attention should also be directed toward the steering and suspension systems. The MOT history reveals a chronic pattern of play in the steering rack ball joints and track rod ends dating back to at least 2008. Additionally, the frequent reports of wheel bearing play and deteriorating suspension dust covers suggest that while the car is driven sparingly, the mechanical components are subject to age-related degradation. A detailed check of the steering rack, suspension bushes, and all mounting points is essential.