Hi,

I got a 2008 MCS in 2011. In the past year, I had to take the car back to the dealer to have the following done

- replace water pump
- recall to replace turbo water pump
- engine thermostat
- gasket ring, gasket, clamp to repair oil leak
- timing chain
- today, another oil leak issue

Was wondering how is everyone's else experience with their MCS esp with reliability. The guy at the shop mentioned that I may have a lemon.
Anyone had their mini up to 100K without any numerous repair and maintenance costs

 

Unreliable - possibly...

However while the law varies by state, in most states to be declared a lemon the car has to be in for the same repair 3 or more times for the same issue.

 

Some states also may have a number of days without the car. Its best to look up your specific states requirements.

 

Is all this under warranty. That is a big hit on the Visa card if you had to pay for it. I want to extend my warranty on my MINI. I'll sleep better.

 

Very few bad cars. Lots of bad servicing. You are driving an 'exotic'. Get used to regular servicing and repair bills. The latter goes away once the car is sorted. The former never does. One missed service = $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.

PS: Our 3 have over 380k on them - no problems.

 

No telling what the previous owner did for periodic maintenance. The only thing you know is your at the tail end catching all the problems. I know how you feel, I've had the same problems with an older BMW, I'm buying a new MINI and getting a fresh start. Good luck.