2018 MINI Countryman 1.5L Petrol · YA18 AXO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 19 May 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. However, the preceding three years show a mixed picture: a major failure for a fractured off‑side front coil spring in May 2025 and serious rear‑tyre damage in May 2024, both of which required remedial work before the subsequent passes. The pattern suggests that the vehicle has experienced intermittent component failures, particularly in the tyre and suspension areas, but that these issues have been addressed, resulting in a short‑term improvement in the latest test result. At 85,506 miles for a 2018 model, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 10,700 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the normal usage envelope for a small SUV of this age. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would hint at prolonged periods of storage, nor is the accumulation unusually high, so the wear on engine, transmission and drivetrain components should be proportionate to the recorded distance. Nonetheless, the combination of age and mileage means that consumables such as rubber, bushings and fluids are approaching the point where calendar‑based degradation becomes as significant as mileage‑based wear. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set a thorough visual and tactile inspection. The rear tyres have a documented history of cuts, tears and perishing, so check both sidewalls for any dry rot, cracking or bulging, and verify that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm across the entire width. While the front tyres were flagged for edge wear in 2025, confirm that the tread is even and that there are no foreign objects embedded in the tread pattern. During a test drive, listen for any thumping or vibration that could indicate a remaining tyre defect, and feel for a loose or shuddering sensation when cornering, which may betray residual suspension issues despite the coil‑spring replacement. In addition to the tyres, examine the suspension for any excessive play in the off‑side front spring mounts or worn bushings, and listen for clunking noises over bumps. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and operate the handbrake to ensure the rear calipers are not binding. Given the vehicle’s eight‑year age, assess the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and confirm that it holds charge, especially if the car has spent any time idle. Finally, verify that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals, as fluid breakdown can occur on a calendar basis even when mileage is moderate. A full service history and receipts for the recent tyre and suspension work will provide additional confidence in the vehicle’s current roadworthiness.