So after 8 months of minigasm, 4 months of unemployment and 5000 miles of biking to get things done, I finally have a 04 cooper S and bought this baby 2 weeks into my new job. Also, this is my first car and I'm an absolute newbie to the world of DIY. I'm in love with this car. I've been taking detours to anywhere I go and just want to ride it to my will.

However, it has a couple of issues which may need immediate attention but I wanna do it myself. I've ordered a Haynes Mini manual and it should be in 2-3 days from now. Listed below are the problems I think the ride has and you maybe able to give me a better understanding.

04 Cooper S (R53S) Manual 6 speed. 60,000 miles. Hyper Blue, white top.
Issues :/

1. The first gear responds very slowly at low rpm's when the clutch is released parallely with gas pedal. Biggest issue imo.

2. Seems out of balance. Drifts to right when steering left alone.

3. Steering shakes when the car hits medium to large size potholes.

4. Brake is a little spongy. The car steers either right or left when braked intensely at high speeds. Brake pads?

5. Very small oil leak somewhere. Did some research and looking. Its the oil pan gasket.

6. Rear wiper does not want to spray effectively. What is the recommended washer fluid and its level?

Those are the main issues I'm having but otherwise, the car is great and everyone who ever sat inside are thinking about getting one themselves. Concealing smiles when driving this thing is a pain so I just started smiling my heart out. Haters gonna hate.

Any advice is appreciated =).

 

congratulations! ;-)

May I suggest:
(1) check front control arm bushings for [2,3,4]
(2) try turning OFF the ASC (should illuminate yellow light at bottom of speedo) and see if that affects the car's behavior off the line.

Cheers,

Charlie