So I was on here a while back when I was trying to trade in my Z to get a MINI and low and behold many months later I finally sold it. I've always liked the MINIs, and I've got my eye on a 2006 MCS with 60,300 miles.

I've tried to read up on all the various complaints, TSBs, quirks etc. Low-speed fan resistor, cold-starts and stumbles. I'm having trouble grasping the breadth of these problems. From what I could tell there were no recalls on the 2006, just 05 and earlier, but plenty of TSBs.

I know it's a forced induction sporty hatch, so I'm willing to accept higher cost maintenance than an econobox, but I definitely don't want something reminiscent of my old Jag XJS.

Anywho, anyone who can give me some insight into this would be greatly appreciated. Also when I go to look at the car, what specific things should I look for? Other than the standard dents, scuffs, leaks, cracked hoses etc. Specific parts of the body prone to rust?

the vin is WMWRE33506TL16214

 

So since its a 06 MCS you are fine with the powertrain, especially with only 60k miles. The Chrysler iron block is bomb proof, including the forged crank. The tranny, either the manual or the automatic, is bomb proof also. The supercharger, with that amount of miles should be fine. Suspension should be good with the miles, eventually the bushings and shocks will need to be gone thru. I mean the only thing that goes bad with the first gen cars is the electronics, aka, window motors, all stuff that can be repaired fairly inexpensively. One thing to kinda check is the clutch, if it is bad it can be a $1000 job, if you go back with stock. Rust has not been a issue with these cars, BMW made a pretty heavy duty body here. You will be fine with a 1st gen car, now the 2nd gen cars........

 

Not too bad on the clutch, was about the same with my Z.

I know model problems get exaggerated on a forum because nobody posts "help my car works great today!" but how widespread are these issues really?

When I bought my Z, everyone complained about my model burning through oil but I never had a single with the car whatsoever. Wondering if it's blown out of proportion a bit. Thanks for the words of wisdom though.