I just found this site and am beginning to do as much research on this car before I buy but I was hoping to get some input from the forums. Im interested in trading in my car (although it will be missed) for a 2007 or later cooper s, most likely a manual. Is there anything unique to this car i should look out for while shopping? Common maintenance issues to check for? Years to avoid? Does this car have any quirks i should know about and which ones to be wary of and which ones to ignore? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all.

 

Hi there and welcome. A 2007 or later is going to be referred to as a second generation, so for basic issues, try searching around on the Second Generation area. From what I've heard, the manuals are pretty sound, and that its the Automatics that have had more issues. But I think most of those issues have been taken care of. Remember (as some members of the forums may or may not like) MINI is under the umbrella of BMW, so of course we get access to the service programs provided by BMW. Really, you should find a dealer with a large selection of certified used MINI's and just have a look. Not a whole has changed interior-wise from 1st to 2nd gen.

Anyways, good luck.

 

I was in the same research mode 3 weeks ago myself. 2011 has a bump in hp/tq that is noticeable from previous second gen years. Be sure to confirm what option packages the MCS you are looking has. I was told I was getting one with the Sport package, but turns out it didn't have it. Down side to the endless customization you can do direct from the factory. If you can I also recommend finding a Mini dealer and shopping their lot. At the end of the day it is a 'baby beammer' so there are mechanical quirks compared to say a Chevy; ie starred hex screws to get to the air filter.
Oh and look for the upgraded HK stereo. It seems Minis are PITAs to upgrade stereos in.

2 weeks with my Mini and I have drank the kool-aid, even ordered custom plates for her.

 

Based on owner reports, Consumer Reports estimates the reliability of the '07 through '10 non-S (Justa Cooper) to be average, and that of the S to be worse than average. Body hard-wear and body integrity tend to be weak areas for both versions, but the S has had fuel system problems that the Justa hasn't. For the S, the years from '08 through '10 seem somewhat better than the '07, but that may be partly due to the '07s having more miles.

When you find a MINI that you're very serious about, a pre-purchase inspection by a different dealer, or a good independent shop that knows MINIs, may save some grief and buyer's remorse.

As you work your way toward newer and more expensive used MINIs, at some point you might consider buying a new one instead; for the full warranty and "free" services.

Good luck.

Welcome to NAM.

 

Welcome to the forum, find a good clean and straight MINI, have it checked out by a qualified tech, and if OK, get in and drive away. There aren't any major problems '05 on. Don't abuse the car and keep up the maintenance and every thing will be fine. The only ones to avoid are '02-'06 base Coopers with CVT automatics, they have history of failing, cannot be repaired and cost about $7000 to replace.

 

With the incentives being offered by BMW financing, .09 % and $500 off a manual, I'd run the numbers for buying new v. used. It just might be a narrower gap than you think.