Y'all have scared me... need your honest opinions

[treehugger]

I'm sure you all have heard this question a million times, but I'm in need of some serious reassurance. I've been in love with mini coopers for YEARS, but just now has the opportunity come up for me to actually purchase one. I want to get the MCS with an automatic transmission.

This is going to be my only source of transportation, so I need something that is going to be reliable. Plus, my job requires a lot of driving. My car now (VW) is still relatively new (2007) and has NEVER given me any problems. My big concern is that I could potentially be getting rid of a great car for something problematic.

So my question is... now that your a mini owner, knowing what you know now- would you still have made the purchase? What are your biggest pet peeves about the car? What accessories do you have that you love/ could live without?

I was so sure about getting a sunroof, but this forum has definitely made me second guess this (i live in Houston where it is HOT!) so the issue of it getting stuck is a bummer.

Also, it seems like the rear fog lights are a big deal on here... what makes them so great? Same with the xenon lights.

I'm really into quality sound so I'm debating on getting the better speakers. I'm also looking into the automatic wipers and multi-function steering wheel.

Rattling is a big issue with me (Houston = potholes) so that's a big concern as well.

I'm a 24 year old girl with very little knowledge on cars, so I'm in definite need of people's personal experiences.

I just need your honest opinions please!!!!!! Thank you!!!!!

(sorry for such a long post).

[RandomGemini]

Originally Posted by treehugger

I'm sure you all have heard this question a million times, but I'm in need of some serious reassurance.

I've got your back!

Originally Posted by treehugger

I've been in love with mini coopers for YEARS, but just now has the opportunity come up for me to actually purchase one. I want to get the MCS with an automatic transmission.

This is going to be my only source of transportation, so I need something that is going to be reliable. Plus, my job requires a lot of driving. My car now (VW) is still relatively new (2007) and has NEVER given me any problems. My big concern is that I could potentially be getting rid of a great car for something problematic.

Totally understandable. The MINI is not known for its reliability so it's natural that you would have this concern. If you need a car that is going to get you from A to B and never give you any problems at all... I'd even go so far as to tell you that a VW was the wrong choice because the newer VWs are also not known for being the most reliable car you can choose. You would have been better off getting a Honda.

That said... the Hondas are boring. With less boring cars, you are always going to run the risk that it won't be as reliable. I like VWs and their reliability issues were not so tragic that I was put off of the idea of looking at one when I went new car shopping. The same held true for the MINI. There was no problem that seemed so tragic that I couldn't handle it.

The automatic transmission complaints you are probably hearing about are problems with the CVT transmissions in the first generation MINIs. MINI replaced the automatic with a transmission made by AISIN on the 2nd gen models (AISIN can also be read as "toyota"). I have an AISIN automatic and have driven it for over 9,000 miles. Not a noise, peep or complaint so far. No reports of issues with the AISIN automatic tranny that I am aware of either.

Originally Posted by treehugger

So my question is... now that your a mini owner, knowing what you know now- would you still have made the purchase? What are your biggest pet peeves about the car? What accessories do you have that you love/ could live without?

Absolutely yes. I did not buy an S and next time around, I would. However, I avoided the S because I did not need the extra horsepower and still really don't. Also the engines in the S run hotter, which, IMO just means the car will wear out faster and I expect to keep a car for about ten years. Your average S owner keeps their car for 3-5 years before trading it in. Something to consider in your circumstances for sure. Drive both. Determine if you really need the extra horsepower of the S.

Pet peeve... I really hate the center armrest. I thought I would love it when I bought the car and now I wish I didn't have the darned thing. I also wish I'd gotten the Nav. I live for my sunroof. I love my stereo system. I love driving my car in the bends... I LOVE my car. I don't think I could live without it.

Originally Posted by treehugger

I was so sure about getting a sunroof, but this forum has definitely made me second guess this (i live in Houston where it is HOT!) so the issue of it getting stuck is a bummer.

I've only had mine stick when I've parked the car out in direct sunlight, but there is a TSB out for the sunroof issue and it can be fixed by your dealer. If you experience it, report it and they WILL fix it under warranty. IMO... not a big deal other than having to take the car in to get it fixed... also the sunroof sticks closed, not open... so if you can't use it while you wait to get in at the dealer, you won't get rained on.

Originally Posted by treehugger

Also, it seems like the rear fog lights are a big deal on here... what makes them so great? Same with the xenon lights.

Rear fogs are great because they fill in a blank switch location on your center stack. Xenons are pretty and supposedly give you better vision. Neither are musts IMO, but if you're going to do Xenons, go with the factory lights. Aftermarkets are illegal in the United States.

Originally Posted by treehugger

I'm really into quality sound so I'm debating on getting the better speakers. I'm also looking into the automatic wipers and multi-function steering wheel.

Love my MFSW. Worth the extra money. You don't get cruise control unless you have it. Also, having the stereo controls on the steering wheel is NICE for long commutes. It's really worth the money.

As far as the sound system goes, I'd listen to the 10 and the 6 speaker systems at your dealership and decide which one you like better. I have the 10 speaker system and really dig it. Automatic wipers... *shrug* I've never had them so I don't notice the loss of them. I don't think you would either.

Originally Posted by treehugger

Rattling is a big issue with me (Houston = potholes) so that's a big concern as well.

I'm a 24 year old girl with very little knowledge on cars, so I'm in definite need of people's personal experiences.

I just need your honest opinions please!!!!!! Thank you!!!!!

(sorry for such a long post).

If rattling is a concern, I'd recommend you get 16" wheels and trade the runflat tires for all seasons. The ride is much smoother and less bumpy... but still I'd recommend trying to avoid potholes where possible.

No worries on the long post! We're here to help and welcome to NAM! If you do decide to go with a MINI, you will be glad you stopped here.

[ftttuhzbmcs]

I'm from Houston but have been living in the El Paso area for the last 20 or so years so I know about the potholes. MINIs handle so well, you can zip right around them. Remember that you are hearing the squeaky wheels here. As you know, the squeaky wheel gets the attention. I've had two MINIs and not one problem at all. You, being a girl, you need a sunroof. If you park it somewhere where you can see it, you can leave it open to let that horrible heat out. Also, having it open in the evening is wonderful! You have to get the convenience package. You don't have to get the fog lamp unless you have to have most of your toggle switches filled. Not a biggy at all. I've heard many install aftermarket speakers, which woke up the system dramatically. I'm sure you know that if you buy a starter home, you will outgrow it in just a few years. Purchase a car you can barely afford, knowing that you will eventually grow into it. You only live once!

[ACEkraut11]

Rear fog lights are also a nice option to be seen from the rear. They add a brighter light to attract the attention of the drivers behind you. I have followed a few Audi's that have it and it is definitely noticeable.

As was mentioned, you will hear a unequal amount of problems versus problem free comments. Not that many people post on here complaining that they are having no problems with their car but if you consider the number of MINIs sold compared to the amount of complaints you see on here then there are many more people motoring around without problems than with. Have you driven one yet?

[Sketch]

Hey Treehugger,
Well I have owned my mini for 2 years and have had absolutley ZERO problems with it. It has been the most awesome car ever for my commute to school (5 minutes away :D). VDubs and minis are VERY similar to each other, in fact a lot of my Vdub loving friends have at one point been a mini owner or will be future owners, simply because they rock that much. Switching over to the mini will be extremely easy, so thats a +

The rear fogs are cool, but I would say definetly get the Xenons. Well worth the $$. They are very bright, and look really cool on the exterior, wether they are lit or not. Same goes for the rear fogs. One thing about the rear fogs to remember, if you dont have them, mini will put a cheap piece of non-matching grill trim in their place, that bugs a lot of people. If you can live with not having the toggle switch that they come with, and the plastic inserts, then you dont need them. (although I would recommend getting them cause I think they are cool looking)

As far as rattles, my mini has none (not sure about others). That was also a big concern for me as there are ripped up streets all over my neck of the woods. The multifunction steering wheel is definetly worth the money, like the xenons.

[DrewN]

A warning about MINIs - they are not Japanese commuter cars. They are quirky and have a lot of character. If you're OCD about small things like rattles and squeaks, occasional funny noises/lights that come and go, etc., then be prepared to suffer for the sake of owning the coolest car in the world. Another important thing is having a good relationship with your dealership's service department. If you can, research it. Maybe try a keyword search on your dealer, heading over to the regional board here and asking around, or join your local motoring club. Especially with MINI, if you end up having warranty service issues and all your dealership does is say "can't replicate" over and over again then it will make you miserable.

As a MINI owner, I would definitely recommend my car, I love it and am hoping to put over 200k on it and run it into the ground. However, I didn't expect nor am I getting your typical Honda/Toyota/Mazda ownership experience. Good luck with your decision

[glangford]

I would second randomgemini's comments about possibly thinking of a MC instead of mcs. Generally the MC reliability is a notch above the MCS (consumer reports data). The aisin 6 speed works just fine in that car as it does in the MCS. I bought a manual but did drive the automatic MC and it drove just fine. The steptronic also allows a manual shift mode which is nice. They have dropped the paddle shifters on the MC, which in my mind was a plus!

[Gluhwein]

Both of my MINIs are extremely reliable, comfortable and economical. But do keep it mind that you can't fit much of anything in the trunk. No lumber from Home Depot, bulk items from Sam's Club let alone helping a friend move. Today I'm spending $75 to rent a van to move my daughter back from school.

And I would lose the automatic transmission. Manual is waaaaaay more fun.

[MCEnvy]

Hi there, I've had my Mini for a few months now and also bought it after a long love affair from far. I absolutely love it. Problematic? Nothing serious. I'd say comparable to VW (I've also had Audis). I wouldn't worry about the reliability, it will be fine.

As for the options, for me the sunroof is a must. Xenons are cool looking, but not worth the extra cost. All of this really depends on your budget though. If you're willing to spend the extra money, then get the xenons, you'll love them. If you're working with a budget, you can definitely live without them and still love the car just as much.

I would second the comment above about the manual trans. This is my first manual car. And I am so so happy I decided to make the jump. Even my wife, who was ultra scared of learning manual, loves driving it. It's not that bad in traffic and well worth it when you get on open roads.

In summary - GO FOR IT, LIVE THE DREAM!!!

[sequence]

Originally Posted by Gluhwein

And I would lose the automatic transmission. Manual is waaaaaay more fun.

That's very debatable, and did U ever think that maybe the OP cant drive a manual? And dealing with stop/go Houston traffic???

Also, the LuK clutches and dual-mass flywheels in these cars continue with their historically very spotty reputation and generally crappy build quality. I mean, a plastic throwout bearing?? If the OP wants dependability, then she would be better off with the automatic, for it's not as fun-sapping as you perceive it to be, and much more dependable than what's between the 6-speed and the engine.

Think about the poster and her needs, and not yr perceptions on something you have no clue about.

[tgs91]

I agree with all said and reaffirm the initial warranty.

Mine had several little tweaks and one fairly major (rattling sun roof frame)

If you buy within the first three years of manufacture Mini's initial warranty covers EVERYTHING.

I also agree to check out your local dealers rep on this and other Mini online communities. Apparently I am very lucky to have Mini of St. Louis whose service dept just Rocks! Some others are not so good I have heard

It is a trully awesome car

[MMMdonut]

Hi Treehugger,

I LOVE MY MC! I have loved them since I rode in a friend's 2002 MC. I had to have one and finally realized that dream in July 2005.

I am driving my second MC. My first - a first gen 05 - was sadly totaled in an accident and I walked out of the MC without so much as a bruise! All MINIs are little tanks with lots of safety features.

My 05 was very dependable! I've only had my 2nd Gen MC for almost three weeks, so I really can't comment on it's reliability, but so far Homer has been awesome. I can say more after we drive to the Outer Banks and Back next week. And we will be filling the boot and beyond with all of the stuff we have taken to the beach for the past four years. But Gluhwein is right, you won't be carrying lumber nor helping people move. It's not been a problem for us.

I didn't buy a MCS because I don't need the extra HP, the engine runs hotter and louder, and the MPG is a lot less.

Save the money and get the halogens. To improve the light I did two things upon getting Homer. 1) Raise the angle of the headlights** 2) and I bought these these after reading lots about them on NAM forums. http://www.bulbs.com/eSpec.aspx?ID=1...f2=Light+Bulbs

Get the MFSW.

Get all season tires. The run flats ride hard. You will feel all the bumps in the road a lot harder than on all season. Since you have lots of pot holes don't get low profile tires.

I got the convenience package, cold weather package (I doubt you'll need that) and the premium package.

Pass on the arm rest.

Test drive an automatic and a manual. See what you like best and fits your driving. I have manual and I love it, but your driving conditions might make an automatic a better choice.

Form a really good relationship with the service department! I have a great relationship with mine and it makes getting service a very smooth experience.


** To raise the headlights there is a white plastic philips head screw next to the headlamps on the side towards the grill. Clockwise will raise the lamps.

[galoki]

I've had mine for just over a month. I had a front sway bar get loose, but they fixed that with no issue. I've owned Honda's for the past 3 years and only had to worry about oil, tires, and break pads.... but I love driving this car so much, I can take a bit of the quirky, it's worth it.

Also... consumer reports gave the 09 MC very good reliablity ratings. Slightly less, but still good, on the MCS.

I like the armrest... however, I got an aftermarket installed by the dealer. It's a fliptop, as opposed to the slide installed at factory. I don't have any issues with it.

[santero]

I have an '05 MCS and live in NYC, the pothole capital of the world. This is my first Mini, owned it since Dec. '08, bought it used from a dealer.
So far the only complaint I have is that the ride's a little rough. IMO Mini's are meant for smoothly paved roads, you should really try to avoid the potholes otherwise you'll bend your rims (twice for me + an alignment) .
No probs with auto trans, sun roof (a little slow when opening, no automatic closing when car shuts off), like the heated seats, xenons, front fogs, stereo's great, gas miliage so-so, probably beacuse I'm driving at 70+ all the time . Rear fog slot, I installed the additional back-up light, did'nt find rear fog light necessary. I also didn't install the armrest, opted instead for keeping both my hands on the steering and pretending I'm a race car driver. The Mini is a fun little car to drive around in. Like someone had mentioned, you could purchase something perhaps more reliable, but Mini's are cool looking and if you buying new, you're covered under warrenty. I like mine enough to consider getting a convertible the next time around! Good luck.

[Arnbut]

Originally Posted by treehugger

So my question is... now that your a mini owner, knowing what you know now- would you still have made the purchase? What are your biggest pet peeves about the car?

Abso-freekin'-lutely not.
Quirks are quirks --- annoying but can be lived with.
But defects can kill somebody. I am totally fed up with MINIs.

Bonnet's too hot? Don't touch the dang bonnet.

Center column gets too hot to touch when it's warm out? Don't wear shorts/sandals.

Passenger airbag turns itself off when driving with a passenger? Don't drive with a passenger.

Boot opens itself while driving? Don't carry anything in the boot.

And now with MINI-USA telling me that they refuse to drive my car to diagnose the problems (after test driving it many times over a 15 month period) until I remove the mods to the suspension, aftermarket wheels, & aftermarket tires....

[willsblackmini08]

I think you have already decided to get a MINI so i'm just going to come out and say it. GO TO THE DEALER AND ORDER ONE!!!!! Build a few online and go in and crunch the numbers. Go for the manual and skip the auto it is a lot more fun. Even if you don't know how to drive stick learn it will be worth it. just take the jump and don't look back. As for your thought on this car being reliable you are right but if you look closly at eveyr car they have there problems. The sunroof will take a try or two to get it open if it has been hot out but nothing too crazy as for noises and what not, again every car has them.

[Browser_23]

I have had my 09 MCSa since October. Absolutely love it. Almost 5000 miles on it and 0 problems. Do have a rattle or 2 but not bad enough for me to worry about and they are not always there. No Xenons or rear fogs. Just could not justify the cost of them for their functionality. Standard headlights are just fine in my opinion. Especially if you live in a city. I have the factory armrest and for me it is great. But I am tall, 6'2". My sister who is 5'4" drove the car and the armrest was useless to her. Too far back for where she had the seat. I did go for the convenience package and love the comfort access. The HiFi sound system sounded much better to me than the standard system. By no means a top end system but for a car it is not bad. The automatic transmission is a lot of fun. I can drive manual transmissions just fine but with a mainly stop and go commute for work and old knees I don't do manual clutches anymore. Folding down the rear seats and removing the shelf in the back makes for quite a bit of storage space. Gas mileage is not bad either. My overall average since I bought the car is 27 mpg with about 70/30 city/highway mileage. The auto dimming rear view mirror and rain sensing wipers are great. i also got the auto climate control. So nice to just set it to the temp you want and forget it. Works great. No sunroof for me. have had in many previous cars and I can count on 1 hand the total number of times I opened them in the last 10 years.

I would buy a MCS again in a heartbeat. And I have no complaints with the standard 16" run flats that come on the car.

[RandomGemini]

Be considerate of other people's needs when you make recommendations folks. Fun is very subjective... and driving a manual in Houston is not something I would enter on my list of top 10 fun things to do every single day when I have to spend most of my time... in my car.

She's absolutely right to want an automatic... and the new automatics are reliable and trouble free as far as we know. There's no reason to recommend against them at all other than personal preference.

[EENY]

Reading posts on a bulletin board like this highlight the worst of the worst more than the best of the best. People write when they have issues (like Arnbut - sorry for those problems), not as often to glow over good experiences - maybe they're just out enjoying themselves.

My experience is all good, as far as quality. I do not, even with all my reading on this forum, consider Mini a problem car, and neither should you. I haven't had any serious issues, and am still in love with my Mini.

I agree with most of the other recommendations, but I'll repeat anyway to add weight.

I think considering an MC vs. an MCS may a good idea, unless you are a very racy driver. If you are a "treehugger" the extra MPG may give you an extra reason to be a proud owner. Maybe it'll also give you a small quality edge, over time. But if you don't go that route don't question yourself - they are both solid cars, both have good MPG, and some small percentage of all cars have problems. There is not a right or wrong choice, just choices. Make the decision, and be confident both are fine cars.

I concur with prior posts about sticking with the 16" wheels - more tire, less wheel is better for absorbing bumps and so gives a smoother ride. But, the reason for the 16" rims is more comfort, nothing to do with rattles. My car doesn't "rattle" at all. It just has a firm, tight suspension feel, because I got the 17" wheels with runflat all season tires. There is a difference between firmness and rattles - the 1st is OK, the 2nd is not (and I haven't experienced any of that).

The rest of the issues are largely personal - headlights, transmission, etc. Small details, picked over just because the forum supports working over minor details. Just because it's in writing here doesn't make it a big deal. For example, I didn't get a sunroof because I had a leaky sunroof in another model car (not Mini) and it ruined the entire car for me - never going to have one again. Plus, it's quieter without one. But if you want one, get it. That's just a personal choice. I think they're super cool looking.

I'd purchase my Laser Blue with White Stripes and White Wheels again in a nanosecond. No second thoughts, just continued happiness.

[JudgeS]

First, I have to say I absolutely love my MCS, it is my daily driver and an absolute blast, and aside from a melted hood scoop, I have had no issues (going on 11k, 1st year). Thats being said I would never want it as my only car, if I did not have my Audi and was only able to own one car I would definitely opt (or in your case stay) with the VW (preferably a GTI). As far a reliability goes I would also be a little hesitant as well, even though I've had no major issues, there seems to be quite a few with this car. I spend a ton of time on car forums, and know you tend to here far more bad things than are actually occurring (people love to b1tch), however the reports on this car are far to frequent for me to feel comfortable.

As far as transmission, don't listen to the MT fanatics, I've owned plenty of both, I would choose the AT every time with the MCS, the AT on the MCS is one of the best AT I've ever driven (only better was DSG). The MT was one of the worst I've driven, and not one I'd recommend learning on.

As for options, I would absolutely get the sunroof (have), anthracite headliner (wish I had), MFSW (have).

Options I would not, rear fogs, way overpriced for what it is, you can get the reflectors for like $40.

Standard headlights look better IMHO, and work fine if you live urban/suburban, but xenons are always nice if its really dark.

The rest are all really personal to your taste.

Pet peeves, the rattles

Would I buy again, absolutely.

[carsncars]

Originally Posted by JudgeS

As far as transmission, don't listen to the MT fanatics, I've owned plenty of both, I would choose the AT every time with the MCS, the AT on the MCS is one of the best AT I've ever driven (only better was DSG). The MT was one of the worst I've driven, and not one I'd recommend learning on.

I respectfully disagree with this. I will say that the AT is probably faster than the MT in the hands of your average driver, and that the AT does have a better reliability record. It's purely the "fun" factor of the MT that draws some drivers (this is subjective), and the greater control you have over the car (this is objective--there's no comparison between the degree of control with the AT vs. MT).

However, the reliability of the MT is by no means bad, as evidenced by the thousands of MT MINIs trundling around Europe. Furthermore, the MT on the MINI is excellent. The gates might be a little notchy, but clutch action is perfect and the gears are easy to find (with exception of reverse). I learned on the MINI, and while it was a little easy to stall (not much low-end torque), the good clutch feel and well defined gates made it an excellent car to learn on. It bested the other MT cars in its segment that I test drove, with exception of the Civic Si, and on the whole is very "BMW" in its feel.

Jump into any Toyota vehicle (or even the VW Rabbit!) with a MT and you'll be begging for the MINI. Vague clutch action, rubbery gearshifts and impossible-to-modulate-finely throttle is the name of the game there.

I promise. That's the last I'll say on this subject in this thread. Search up one of the multitude of threads on this topic if you want some reading material.

[RandomGemini]

Guys, seriously, there are plenty of other threads for automatic versus manual debate and the OP is a first timer here on NAM. Arguments like this can intimidate newcomers. So please... be nice.

She wanted some reassurance about the MINIs reliability which is the only reason I brought up the automatic transmission at all. There is a lot of old information out there that does not apply to the second gen AT and newcomers to the MINI often end up getting the wrong info about the AISIN transmission.

[DrewN]

Nothing remotely bad about the automatic in current MINIs, it's a reliable transmission that can be put into Manual mode and can be just as fun as any manual, so let's put that to bed.

As for rear fogs, there are 2 scenarios - buying off the lot or custom order. If you buy off the lot then it's definitely NOT a dealbreaker. However if you place a custom order then it's a no-brainer for $100, get them. JMHO

[MMMdonut]

I have never once regreted or second guessed my purchase of my 2005 and 2009 MC. I am a MINI driver for life. Mine have been reliable, solid and very, very fun. It is my primary car and I drive it everyday for every purpose. I'll never go back to driving a Honda and that's not a slam against Honda. They are solid, reliable and practical, but they don't have the fun factor and personality of the MINI.

Now, go get that MINI!

[carsncars]

Life's too short to buy boring cars. If I only had the money for, say, a new Hyundai Accent, I'd honestly spend the money on an older, used car, talking into account the cost of repairs.