hello everyone

my name is Ben and i just turned 16 tomorow i am going to pick up my first car. Its a 2006 cooper s 6 speed. i am really excited and i hope to get involved in the mini community. i hope to modify my car and i was wondering if anyone had some ideas for some cheap fun mods that i can do until i get a job and install a catback, suspension, etc.

 

Welcome!

 

Great, let's see some pics when you get it!. Cheap is relative, and when you don't have a job, I'm guessing on the low side. The cheapest mods I know of that's worth doing would be a SC pulley swap or rear anti-sway bar. But I'd suggest putting a few thousand miles on the car to get used to it the way it is, so you can appreciate the difference. Something else you may want to consider is upper strut tower anti-mushrooming supports. I don't have them, though, and my towers are just fine at 134k

 

16 with a MINI, lucky guy you are. Welcome to NAM!
Check out the site you will be inspired by all the mods.

 

Welcome Ben. Nice first car. Be careful!

 

Yes, Welcome, Ben, and congratulations! I agree - definitely be careful!! My first car at 16 was a '69 Roadrunner my Dad restored. Was an absolute rocket. Between the Roadrunner and the MINI, knowing what I know now, IMO, the MINI S is far more dangerous for first time drivers. Honestly, I'd say don't mod your MINI at all right now no matter how tempting it is. Your money is far, FAR better spent enrolling in a MINI driving course or any other driving course. Mod later when you know your MINI through and through.

 

The '06 production is one of the most reliable. Good choice. Comb thru everything on NAM and learn all you can about not abusing your clutch. Check you fluid levels regularly and get your oil changed on time. Rotate your tires about every 5K otherwise the negative camber on the rear will cause uneven wear. MINIs are quirky and you've got a lot to learn about them. They ain't your family Detroit iron sedan. You also might enjoy hooking up with a local MINI club in your area and/or joining the local SCCA chapter. Auto cross is a total blast. Good track training will go along ways to make you a better street driver too.

 

sorry i havent been on lately i have been out enjoying my new ride. first a few updates. i found out that they really dont like 83 (cheap) gas. thank god i only put about 2 gallons in. next it is a rocket and i constantly have to remind myself that there are speed limits. my brother races auto X with his 2012 subaru wrx sti, and he wants me to join, which i probably will. I do have a broblem though.....i put an ipad box in my glove compartment to hold stuff to stop them from rollling around and when i went to open in it, something snapped in the latch and the handle will move but it wont open. does anyone have a way to get it open so that i dont have to tell my parents yet.. i just need to get the stuff out and re-close it till i have the money to buy a new lock. Please help!

 

Great, let's see some pics when you get it!.

 

its probably just a spring that has lost tension or the keeper for the spring let go... get a plastic panel tool and try to open er up. BTW sweet MINI.