Hello all,

Wanted to shoot out in the dark looking for a response in the MINI community. Just recently became a MINI owner in the NOVA,DC area. I purchased a used MINI with lots of miles and character to boot, so I am looking to chat with anyone with knowledge or aleast more knowledge than me on repairing and fixing up MINIs. So far I have started out on the right foot with getting an repair manual and have made some repairs that I have first noted on my used MINI purchased. So far it has been fun in fixing the minor repairs, but as I get into it, I am finding more stuff that I need to fix. However my concern is that I would rather do the best repair possible than just putting a bandaid on it. So I am hoping to find some one here that can help and fixing up the MINI to standard so that I am making the proper repairs. It is a 2002 MINI with many booboos, but it now has a home and a owner that is willing to put in time and effort to bringing it back to it's luster as a true MINI should. So anyone with advice or even just pointing me in any direction would be totally awsome.

Thanks,

Helo

 

What kinds of things are you noticing? If you search around here, you will find "how-tos" for many repairs, especially the most common things. If you're looking to not do some of the harder things yourself, then maybe try the forums that are local to your area (further down the main forums page) and see if someone can recommend a good independent shop near you.

Welcome!

 

welcome!

may I suggest that I have the best search experience if I forego the search engine here, and use Google instead?

if you've never tried that the only trick is to use "site:www.northamericanmotoring.com" as part of your search (without the quotes)

the Google search

subforum, high mileage site:www.northamericanmotoring.com

will get you started...

cheers,

charlie

113k on an '04 MCS and it is still delightful! and starts on the first try at -5 I discovered (yay Canada!)

 

I can't help you on the repairs part (haven't had my MINI long enough, I guess) but welcome to MINIs and NAM. Sounds like you've got all the makings of a great MINI enthusiast; you should feel right at home here!

 

Congrats Helo on the new Mini, Welcome from North Carolina.

 

Thank you, so far the Mini has been a blast to drive and soon as I get good clean bill of health I would like to be motoring farther from home...

Much thanks from NOVA/DC

Helo

 

Thanks for the compliment. I am really excited to get down to business in fixing and repair what needs to get fixed and hopefully improve on the mini's already good performance. So far for all the driving...it has been great and very enjoyable even in all the DC traffic....

 

Charlie,

Thanks for the advice. Will pretty much try anything as far research goes...and finding what available as far as resources go online.

Helo

 

MLPearson,

Thanks for the advice. I am still in the process of conducting a good diagnos of the mini. So far, the cues have been minor rattling and clicking noises with the interior, slipping and noises when in 1st gear, and a loose feel, but stable feel to the steering. Also I on the exterior, I just notice recently separation in seams of the windshield and hood assembly area. The rest are minor cosmetic repairs which I will save for last sinceI want to make sure that the Mini will be safer than the normal vehicle inspection we get here in NOVA. Some of which I know I can do, but will need professional advice or guidance.

Glad to be finding some help and connection on NAM...thanks.

Helo