My wife has got a "new to her" car, R56 I think is the right code. It's a 2007 Mini Cooper S. I'm on here because I have the addiction of modifying all vehicles I can get my hands on. She's given me permission to do some small things to her car, and I'm trying to find a way to get her to get another car and I'll take hers! It's a blast to drive, I can only compare it to my 1985 SVO mustang so it feels amazing! I would like to find the right mods, nothing that would compromise daily comfort/drive ability. I think probably exhaust and some really nice suspension parts.

Anyhow, were live in central FL area.

 

Welcome aboard. The fun has just begun. Everyday you will find something new about your MINI or what you want to do to it. Make sure you check the oil regularly and change it before the you wait for the computer. There is also a recall you will want to make sure you have done. Look up all the info you can, so that you may smile every time you drive it. Post some pics and remember to WAVE.

 

Is there a way to tell if the water pump recall has been done on our car? Something I can look for like visual cues to avoid having to take it to the dealer.

 

I believe it is starting now so I highly doubt it was done. Call a dealer.

 

Thanks

What's a factory motor capable of handling power/boost wise? I don't want to get carried away with power but would like a little more.

 

The 07 S already has 172 hp. I would be more concerned with handling than more power.
First off, if it doesn't have an OCC and boost tap, that's the first thing I'd do. It's more of a necessity rather than a mod. Will help reduce carbon buildup on intake. BSH is probably the most popular.
Maybe front strut brace.
Rear 19 mm H sport sway bar.
Upgrade the brake rotors and pads. Zimmerman cross drilled and EBC redstuff pads are great. IMO
Tires and possibly rims.
I don't have it but as far as power boost, I guess an access port upgrade.
Forgot, you'll probably be getting the recall letter for the electric aux. water pump. Nothing to be alarmed about immediately.
Also, run your key fob in the ignition and take the car to a dealer. They can pull up all service that's been done.
Some things to might have been done and if not might become a problem 1. timing chain (tensioner issue), 2. thermostat leaking. Both went 3 months after I bought my 07 used. Other than those two things it's been great.

 

I know about turbo's and whatthey need to work, but I'm unfamiliar with some of the terminology used here. What's an OCC and boost tap?

 

OCC= oil catch can http://www.waymotorworks.com/bsh-oil-catch-can-r56.html

Boost tap= https://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coo...t_adapter.html

 

Sorry about the abbreviations.
What Bram said. Check out www.waymotorworks.com
Good guy, good prices and quick delivery.
OCC= oil catch can
Boost tap is for the intake side (passenger side) of valve use to block off flow.
Both help reduce carbon build up due to the engine setup and direct injection.