Hey guys,
I just wanted to get some more input. I am looking at buying a 2007 type s, 6-speed manual with 58000 miles on it. I have test driven the car many times and i love it more and more. My Girlfriend doesn't but i do . I've been looking through reviews and found many negative comments about reliability. Everyone loves the car but has had many minor issues. My only concern is that this car will cause me lots of grief. I figured i would ask the experts. I will be getting a 2 year extended warranty with the car. your input about reliability would be wonderful. I will be needing new tires by next spring so if you have any recommendations to improve comfort that would be great as well. Thank you!

Andrew

 

Hi Andrew, welcome to NAM.

The 2007 S was the first year of a new gen, so it's not unexpected for the first year of any redesign to have a few issues that get ironed out in the succeeding years. Keep in mind the majority of what you read on the interwebz are complaints & problems, but much less "everything was great today". Those owners and cars do exist. Not two cars are exactly alike in how they're driven or maintained, so it's hard to say what might or might not crop up.

If you get a good warranty, then anything that goes wrong in the next two years is covered, so that's a plus. To prepare yourself, you might read through the R56 subforums here to get an idea of what others have experienced, and use Search liberally.

if you get the last seven digits of the VIN you can call a MINI dealer and find out what maintenance has been done by MINI on the car, regardless of where/which dealership. Also, ask yourself what your budget is like, how much you can lay out for an unexpected repair. When buying a used car that's something anyone has to account for. Many minor issues are cheap to repair, and you might be able to DIY if that helps.

As for tires, check the tire & wheel forum - tons of threads on the subject to keep you busy for a while.

Good luck on your decision, and we'll hope to see some pics from you soon!

 

my 07-S - bought new - has been to the dealer for scheduled service. PERIOD
since I ran out of pre-pay service I do it myself: filters, oil, brakes . .

well, that's not 100% true, it was back last week having been invited for a free "inspection" at the dealer .... aka what can we sell this guy IMO ...

After looking at my car for an hour the service manager recommended a brake fluid change .... PERIOD

 

thanks guys. I ended up buying the car. I love it!! just picked it up last night. I will have pictures up soon. I will call with my vin number too just to make sure all the recall work is complete as well. Thanks again

Andrew