Hi there,
I know there is a zillion threads dealing with these questions but i'm looking for a Canadian point of view since we don't have the free full service warranty.

I am considering buying a new 2007 Mini Cooper Classic. I've always loved the mini but its never really been an option before. I love driving and its really important to me have a car that is fun to drive. The problem is i HATE puting money into cars. I am fine with normal wear and tear, i.e. oil changes, brakes every once in a while. Overall though I like to know what will be paying month to month, i.e. no unexpected expenses. The reliability ratings are all over the map when it comes to Mini's and most are based on US information so they show no costs over the first few years.

So i guess i really have two questions for you Mini owners out there;

How is the maintenance cost and frequency within the first few years of Mini ownership?

Based on what i have just told you about myself do you think a Mini is a good choice for me?

I can't seem to make up my mind so i decided to ask the experts.

Thanks in advance!

 

Im not Canadian, but I'll share a few thoughts anyway. The 07 is a completly new motor (unless you are lookin at a cabrio). As with anything new there are some issues that generally get shaken out in the first few years. So far the reports on the 07's have been pretty good, but there are also those who have problems since day one.

That being said I have a 03 with over 148,000 miles on it, and have only been back to the dealer twice, both for oil changes. During one they replaced a couple of items under a recall (should still be free in Canada right?)

As for mantiance costs - all the usual items
Tires (I drive alot, so a set a year)
Brakes (done them once, rear at 90,000, fronts at 130,000)
Mods - well that never stops

You might want to consider an 06 - they seem to be the most reliable so far.

Nik

 

I agree with xsmini re: getting an '06. I'm always leery of first year models. Where are you located winston81? That may have a lot to do with your decision. I waited to get my MINI until there was a dealer in Windsor. Once I got it, however, I didn't like their attitude or their service so did all my maintenance at Detroit Tuned or by myself. I bought a used '03 that went out of warranty within 2 years but have had virtually no problems and only one dealer recall for a vacuum hose. I'm at 110,000 km now. Are you looking at getting a Cooper or Cooper S? My vote is for the "S"! The fun factor goes up dramatically with that super/turbo charger.

 

Thanks for the response guys, it actually never crossed my mind about the 07's being new and all the kinks that may need to be worked out.

I'm probably going to lease if i go for the Mini, so an 06 isn't really an option. Plus i'd really like to have a brand new car, i want to pick my colour etc... and have it exactly the way i want.

I'm looking at a Cooper or even maybe a Cooper Classic. That's probably all i really need (for now), its the handling that i'm really after, not necessarily power. Plus i like the fuel economy and the $1000 you get back from the Government.

I'm glad to hear you guys haven't had many problems, its encouraging. I guess i'm still in used car thinking mode where i have no warranty and everything is out of pocket. There shouldn't really be too much to do that isn't normal servicing or covered by the warranty.

I'm in Ottawa so i don't have much choice as to where i have servicing done. There is only one dealership within a few hours drive. So far i've been pretty impressed with the sales staff though which is pretty rare.

Thanks for the help, i have some serious contemplating to do!!

 

I have an 07 (since June) MC and no probs yet after 4,000 kms. I have the Manual Transmission, for which I'm really glad. Firstly, there have been a few problems with the Auto as I've seen on this site. Secondly, I love the feel of the manual on this car. My biggest surprise is the solid feel of the workmanship on this car. And even tho the 07 is new, there is 10+ years of BMW tech in this car...it's not like they invented it out of thin air!

So...after about 1 year, any problems with the 07 have been pretty slim....