2004 MINI One: petrol or diesel?
Petrol, diesel and hybrid versions go wrong in different ways, so each has its own figures from the MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Pick the one you’re looking at: the fuel is on the logbook and in the car’s MOT history.
Diesel and Hybrid versions had too few MOTs for figures of their own, or weren’t sold.
Known faults on every 2004 MINI One
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- Manual gearbox
Gearbox bearing and differential noise
Early cars used a Midland gearbox where a rattle or hum can mean a worn bearing, and clicking can mean a failing differential. The later Getrag box (from mid-2004) wears less but shouldn't jump out of gear.
At the viewing: Listen for rattles at idle and hums on the move, and make sure every gear engages and stays in.
- All engines
Water leaks and damp boot
The frameless front windows can seal badly, and the rear lights and tailgate handle trim often let water in.
At the viewing: Lift the boot floor and check for damp or a musty smell.
- All engines
Rust on neglected cars
Neglected cars can rust at the rear sill edges, around the front bumper and in the arches.
At the viewing: Look along the sills and wheel arches for bubbling paint.
Looking at a MINI One?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the MINI One compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | 1,284 | Tyres 27% |
| 2021 | 2,698 | Tyres 27% |
| 2020 | 3,442 | Tyres 25% |
| 2019 | 4,588 | Tyres 28% |
| 2018 | 4,609 | Tyres 29% |
| 2017 | 15,961 | Tyres 33% |
| 2016 | 24,767 | Tyres 32% |
| 2015 | 31,025 | Tyres 30% |
| 2014 | 18,466 | Tyres 30% |
| 2013 | 21,196 | Tyres 31% |
| 2012 | 12,997 | Tyres 30% |
| 2011 | 3,168 | Tyres 33% |
| 2010 | 1,781 | Lights and electrics 33% |
| 2009 | 1,035 | Exhaust and emissions 31% |
| 2008 | 933 | Brakes 35% |
| 2007 | 848 | Lights and electrics 36% |
| 2006 | 589 | Brakes 52% |
| 2005 | 590 | Brakes 54% |
| 2003 | 270 | Brakes 61% |
| 2002 | 181 | Brakes 62% |
| 2001 | – | Too few tests |