2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · VA04 AEC

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT status following a successful test on 22 December 2025 at 103,638 miles. The maintenance trend appears stable but shows evidence of recent testing volatility. The record shows two failed tests in late 2025, specifically on 17 December 2025 and 27 January 2025, both of which were rectified immediately to achieve a pass. While these failures did not list specific defects, the proximity of the tests suggests the vehicle may have been undergoing minor remedial work or addressing minor non-compliance issues to meet the minimum standard. The mileage profile indicates a low-use vehicle, averaging approximately 4,711 miles per year over its 22-year lifespan. There is a notable gap in the recorded history between the October 2023 test at 92,069 miles and the January 2025 test at 101,744 miles. This period of approximately 15 months saw an accumulation of nearly 9,700 miles. The current mileage of 103,638 miles remains relatively low for a vehicle of this age, which often correlates with less mechanical fatigue on the drivetrain, though it can sometimes lead to issues arising from long periods of inactivity. A physical inspection should focus on components that typically degrade when a car is driven sparingly. Given the low annual mileage, I recommend checking for rubber degradation in the suspension bushes, coolant hoses, and tyre sidewalls. You should also examine the underside for surface corrosion or structural rust, particularly around the subframes, as these are common age-related issues on this model. Finally, verify the condition of the braking system. Although the recent MOTs show no advisories, the repeated failures in 2025 suggest the vehicle may have required minor adjustments to the braking or lighting systems to pass. Inspect the brake discs for uneven wear or pitting and check the suspension coil springs for any signs of corrosion or fractures to ensure the vehicle's structural integrity matches the clean MOT record.