Hello all,

I'm new to the Mini world and am in the market for a new car (not brand new). Anyway, I came across this on my local craigslist and am wondering if it is a good buy? What types of things should I look for when I go to check it out other than the obvious? From what I've gathered online, '06 is a good year for the Mini. My only concern is the person texted me the other day and said that they had to take it to the shop for a new clutch so I'm assuming they drove it pretty hard. I mean, they burned up a stage 2 clutch in something less than 65k miles... Thanks for any help/input!

 

Yes, 2006 is a good year for the MINI Cooper S. However, you're buying an eight year old car and there will be problems. Therefore, you either need to be able to perform your own maintenance, or have a mechanic or shop in your area that works on MINI. Don't think that you can rely on the dealer for repairs, unless you don't mind paying BMW prices.

To me $9,000 seems pricey for a private party sale.

 

Thank you for the reply! I do most of my own maintenance/work so that doesn't scare me. I stay away from dealers. I usually only go to shops for work I can't perform like alignments and such. They are willing to flex on the price. I checked kbb and it said 9500 so I'm guessing it's not too bad. Any things or known issues I should look for? Obviously I'll be listening for engine, trans, and suspension noises when I drive it.

 

I also came across this. http://allentown.craigslist.org/cto/4543120155.html
Which is the better buy?

 

TotMeter,

I'm not up to speed on what 2006 MINI S Models are selling for and I did not check KBB, before I made my statement. Sorry if I was wrong by me saying that it was pricey.

If you're not afraid of getting your hands dirty, then this is a good car for you.

I am not an expert on the first generation MINI Cooper S, so hopefully someone else will answer your questions about what to check for when you look at it.

If you're serious about the car, do get a Carfax report.

Good luck!

 

TotMeter,

I love the looks of the 2009 MINI Cooper S with 32,000 miles, but it's a second generation, and I know a lot about them...the 2007 - 2010 MINI Cooper S with the N14 engine has its problems, to include the timing chain, excessive oil consumption, and carbon build-up. Don't buy it unless it's covered under the MINI Next warranty program.

Stick with the 2006 MINI Cooper S, with the Six Speed Manual. (Avoid the CVT)

 

Okay thank you for the words of wisdom!