Mini First
Reliability, running costs, and MOT data across 5 years from 2,851 real MOT tests.
Avg Pass Rate
78%
Total Tests
2,851
Best Year
2012 (84%)
Years Covered
5
About the Mini First
The Mini First has been tested 2,851 times in 2026 MOT data across 5 model years (2009 to 2013), with an average pass rate of 78%. That's close to the national average of 82%. Available as petrol.
Best and Worst Years
The 2012 model is the most reliable with a 84% pass rate from 813 tests. The 2009 model has the lowest at 66%. With a 18 point spread, choosing the right year makes a big difference to reliability.
Reliability Trend
Newer MINI FIRSTs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Mileage Across Years
The oldest model in our data (2009) averages 82,142 miles, while the newest (2013) averages 69,493 miles.
Compared to the Mini brand average of 84%, the First is 6 points lower, placing it among the less reliable Mini models.
Estimated Running Costs
Based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Full 2013 detailsHow reliable is the Mini First?
Mini First by Year
Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.
Mini First Guides & Articles
Best First Cars in the UK: Top Picks for New Drivers 2026
12 min read
Running CostsCheapest Cars to Run in 2026: Real Data from 19.8 Million MOT Tests
9 min read
Running CostsCheapest Cars to Insure in the UK: Insurance Groups 1-10
9 min read
Buying GuideFord Fiesta Common Problems (2026): What to Check Before Buying
13 min read
ReliabilityFord Puma Problems: 7 Issues Owners Report (2026)
13 min read
Checking a specific Mini First?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.