I thought I would take the time and introduce myself. My name is Greg and live in NC and have ask several questions and have received great answers from the members (thank you soo much). I bought my 2005 Mini-S last year from a private party. Looked good (will add pics when I figure out how) but now after reading all the threads from the group of very seasoned Mini veterans I have become scared to find out about the many quarks to this adventure you already know. I should have asked you guys & gals about before buying! I wanted a Mini so bad I jumped... I can only hope going into all these threads and reading I don't become so overwhelmed I sell my dream...

Thanks again for giving so much incite on these fascinating cars.
I only wish the Mini owners in NC would wave to each other, I feel like an idiot waving to someone that looks straight ahead... Look around people we are out there and like Harley riders wave!

Greg

 

Welcome and yes there are many helpful people here with tons of great info.
I also became very worried when I read all the "quirks" people experience with their MINI
but I try to always remember that people speak up more about negative experiences that positive ones.
There is a thread somewhere about positive MINI ownership. It should be kept up to decrease this anxiety.

 

Car forums tend to concentrate problems with the cars, nobody gets on a car forum and says, "My car is running great!"

Well, I have had no problems with my MINI! I got on this forum to learn about available Mods to improve performance.

My car is running great!

Do you feel better?

Dave

 

It always makes me feel better hearing from happy MINI owners.

 

Welcome!

 

Yeah, these forums will have you believing that everyone has nothing but horrible mechanical problems. Check out Honda, Toyota, Porsche, etc. sites and you'll find the same basic thing, so don't fret too much.

I have had good service out of my 2009 MCS and it is the most fun car I have ever owned in over 30 years of car ownership. MINIs are not Hondas and do require more maintenance than a Japanese car but they are SOOO much more fun to drive and it is well worth it to me. Consumer Reports still recommends MINI even though the maintenance needs are not the lowest out there.

Keep an eye on fluids. Don't run the oil the ridiculous mileage between oil changes MINI
recommends. I never go over 8000 mi on the recommended MINI synthetic oil. You can get an idea
about areas to watch on first gen MINIs here: http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

Relax and enjoy!!

 

I agree with all the above comments. Take the negative's with a grain of sand/salt. Bought mine used Aug. 2011 and only had two issues ($900 worth of repair) and it's been great ever since. I change oil/filter every 6K, watch my fluid levels, rotate tires, etc. I'm going on about 9K (almost 67K total) now and car runs and performs great.

 

I very much agree, much of the time your car returns to you how well you treat it and checking your fluids, and oil upon fill-up of your fuel tank with your Premium fuel gives you peace of mind that your checking you oil, since it's a critical fluid for these motors if it's allowed to remain at a low level. Mini's are just awesome at all levels of options!!!

 

Welcome, and congratulations on purchasing one of the most desirable year and model of MINI, in a lot of people's minds. I think the MINI (especially an older one) is best enjoyed by somewhat of a "hands on" owner. If you spend the time to get to know your car, and do the maintenance and basic repairs yourself, it's a lot cheaper, and also a lot more enjoyable. Don't even consider selling your car based on the feeling you get from a bunch of internet strangers. Consider it IF the enjoyment factor and practicality is outweighed by hassle and expense. It doesn't sound to me like you are anywhere near that point.

 

And you are also a spammer.

 

Thanks to all of you for posting.. I love this car and get the adrenaline rush every time I leave work with the rice burners trying to catch me. I have some issues with the steering pulling. Not sure if its tires so I'm having new ones installed this week with an alignment to start. Thumping in the left rear so thats next. Love NAM so far for all the info it has, I'm just jealous of some of the pics of your rides, makes mine look plain...
Greg

 

GAWANNAMINI, I love your car, I wanted a convert. but out of my buget.
Greg

 

Thx. I've had convertibles for 30 years and don't plan on growing up anytime soon. With the seat heat and wind deflector the R57 is comfortable with top down in the high 40's F. Sold my beloved 2000 BMW 3 series convertible to buy the MCS. Loved the bimmer but the MCS is simply more fun to drive. Wife initially thought I was crazy but she now loves the MINI too. Happy Motoring!