Heyyy just wanted to introduce myself Im from long island NY and im new to mini but not performance fwd cars (was a honda guy) had 2 integras, 2 civics, motor swaps the whole 9. I was sick of the honda crowd (immature) and especially the theft associated with them especially after i caught 2 trying to steel my civic hatch awhile back so i sold the gsr n purchased a family mazda 6 sedan and said by to the whole scene, but as any car enthusiast i got the itch and in the market for another car. I always liked mini's and after extensive research i was excited and loved the ride! I was debating a newer civis si or a rx8 but the choice is clear its going to be a r56

Im sure ill have alot of questions in the near future but as far as mods i already have some planned out
swift spec r springs/koni shocks and more

But before i start modding away Is there any parts that u suggest me getting first to prevent any possile future known issues with the car (an example issue is with the ps fan cover on the older minis) Anything you would suggest to get ??

 

Welcome aboard! I once owned Hondas too. There's no comparison. You'll never look back. No special parts needed that I'm aware of.

 

How many miles on the MINI and what year?

 

Welcome! If you are unsure of the service history get a GOOD Insp2 done straight up. Also make sure you get and read the Owner's Manual. More in there than you might think......

 

09 65k selling for 12,000

 

At 65k miles, look at carbon buildup. Also timing chain issues. Other than that, visual and mechanical inspection is a must to make sure she runs good. But not bad for $12k.

I'd start researching through the search engine and check out forums for 09' as well. Good luck and look forward to adding another MINIac to the insanity:-).

 

Make sure it had all its "free" scheduled maintenance through 36,000 miles. Any Mini dealer can tell you as the key fob holds the evidence and they can tell you when they plug it in. Make sure the car has synthetic oil in it at all times as this is mandated by Mini. And make sure to run "premium" fuel....93 octane minimum. Have fun.

 

its at a suzuki dealership .... how would i be able to check for carbon build up? Im going to carfax it soon but i imagine it should be good considering its at a major dealer.

Is it possible to tell from synthetic and regular motor oil from the dipstick?

 

Probably not. Have them change the oil before you buy it and have them show you what they have used. The warranty depends on synthetic oil being used otherwise any claim / warranty / problems would be voided. Also for you its longevity of the car.

Carfax is only good if a garage reports information. I don't believe that all garages do this. Contact your closest Mini dealer to see if the have information on the car using the vin number.

 

Carbon build up in parts of the engines, like the valves, will not be evident through a visual inspection of oil.

Also note that MINIs ONLY use synthetic.