2021 MINI Countryman 1.5L Petrol · YC71 AAX

The most recent MOT, carried out on 25 October 2025, was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the off‑side headlamp aim failure noted a month earlier on 25 September 2025 has been rectified. With two successive passes in 2024 and 2025 surrounding a single, quickly remedied fault, the maintenance trend appears stable and responsive rather than deteriorating, suggesting the current owner or servicing centre is attentive to corrective work. At five years old the MINI Countryman has logged 19 386 miles, which works out to roughly 3 900 miles per annum – considerably below the industry average for a vehicle of this class. Such low annual usage often points to periods of limited running or extended storage, rather than high‑stress driving. The modest mileage reduces the immediate wear on high‑frequency components such as clutch plates, timing chain and brake pads, but it also raises the possibility that certain parts may have aged without the benefit of regular operation, for example rubber bushings, tyre sidewalls and battery plates. For a buyer, the first visual check should be the condition of the tyres; even with low mileage the rubber can perish after six to eight years, so inspect tread depth, sidewall cracking and any bulges that would indicate dry‑rot. Verify that the 12‑volt battery is not more than three years old and test its cranking voltage, as standing periods can cause sulphation and reduced capacity. Examine the brake discs and pads for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – a common issue on cars that sit for long stretches. Inspect the suspension for any cracked or dried‑out bushes, worn coil springs or signs of corrosion on the sub‑frame, and listen for clunks or squeaks when the wheels are rocked over bumps. Finally, confirm that the headlamp aim has been correctly adjusted and that the lenses are free from fogging or moisture, as the previous MOT failure was purely an alignment issue. During a test drive, pay attention to any abnormal noises from the steering column, uneven tyre wear that could hint at mis‑alignment, and any hesitation or shudder when applying the brakes. Request service records to confirm that time‑based fluid changes – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – have been performed at the manufacturer’s intervals, since these are not mileage‑dependent and are critical for a vehicle that has seen relatively little road time.