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I've just posted in the 1st gen Cooper S forum looking for info and advice,
as I'd like to buy one and want to get as much feedback on things to look for as possible.
If I end up buying one, you'll end up hearing much more from me
What all do you want to know? Quickest way to get an answer, ask a question or a couple of dozen or more. Lots of free advice here for the taking.
__________________ SCOOTER2009 MC, Chili Red/White, Automatic, Cold Weather, MFSW, Sport Seats, Center Armrest, 25.5mm Rear Sway Bar, Falken Azenis RT-615, Valentine V1, Now Alive and Well in Salt Lake
i'm thinking about buying a cooper S, but will be looking at the cheaper end of the market. i've found a 2003 one, but it is very close to the 100K mileage mark. as far as i know they have timing chains, so there's no need to worry about a timing belt, but how long do the clutches last on average? is there anything else that might need changing at this mileage?
is there a buyers guide on this forum?
what things should i be looking out for when i go to view it?
how will i know if the supercharger needs attention?
does it make weird sounds? is there a pressure gauge in the dash?
what are the costs of getting the SC reconditioned?
Not speaking from personal experience (mine is an 06 cabrio), but I've read on this forum and others that some of the early cars (like this 03 you're looking at) had problems that were ironed out in later years. Might like to think about this. As far as service work, I think it depends a lot on whether you can do any of it yourself. The BMW dealers think all Mini owners are deep pockets, like some BMW owners doubtless are. Just my humble opinion. HTH
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Sgt Pepper, an '06 MCSc, PW/G, Premium, Sport, Cold Weather, green leather, anthracite interior, clear bra, window tint, "S" sticker covers for ugly yellow air bag sticker (from Aestheticcreations), M7 STB, M7 USS, M7 air diverter, Texas Speedwerks engine damper. When you're born, you're crying and everyone else is smiling. Live so that when you die everyone else is crying and you're the one who's smiling!
SCOOTER 2009 MC, Chili Red/White, Automatic, Cold Weather, MFSW, Sport Seats, Center Armrest, 25.5mm Rear Sway Bar, Falken Azenis RT-615, Valentine V1, Now Alive and Well in Salt Lake
When you're born, you're crying and everyone else is smiling. Live so that when you die everyone else is crying and you're the one who's smiling!
