I just purchased an '03 base automatic with 81K as a commuter car. Interestingly, while was considering the purchase it seemed that I couldn't find any dis-satisfied mini owners. But, now that I have purchased I've come across them in various forums. Anyway, I hope to remain in the "happy" family and enjoy the time driving. I also hope to learn a bunch from all of you.

 

You'll get a lot of comments that you should not have bought the automatic, it has a pretty high failure rate and is expensive to replace ($7000.00) that said I've owned 2 with the CVT and both have been flawless. You might want to get the fluid changed, it should be changed every 28,000 miles (last time for me it was $240.00) and it should only be done at the dealer. Good Luck with your new purchase.

 

Welcome. can you give us an idea of what you paid for the 2003? Plus, post a picture.

 

Atomic #47, I am having fun with it! It's nice to hear some success stories among a large number of "downer" ones. Maybe it's only those with issues that do most of the complaining. I've found an import service center that is huge on customer service. They've spent a lot of time educating me about the car w/o any charge.

Rockridge, I paid $9,350 for the car and it has 81,000 miles. It's in good shape aside from smelling of smoke. Fortunately, I have a neighbor who is a physicist. He built me an ozone generator, and it is doing a great job of getting rid of the odor.

 

Welcome to NAM!
R50's are COOL!

 

congrat...welcome too