Hello, I am looking into a used MINI I found locally. Its an 08 Cooper hardtop S w/30k on it, pepper white, xenons, manual trans, sunroof, aftermarket wheels. I have a couple of questions:

1) I noticed it doesn't have a barcode on the rear hatch behind the plate holder, is that normal or does it mean its been painted?

2) The passenger side door doesn't seem as flush to the body on the rear edge as the driver's door. Is that normal, have you ever seen that? The carfax shows no accident history...

3) Is there any specific reasons to stay away from an 08 S model as far as known problems/reliability?

4) Of course, what is a good price on something like this if it is clean, etc.

Thanks!

 

I think I remember seeing a barcode someplace on my '07. I can't imagine they would put one on a re-paint.

The doors fit flush. Have the car put through an inspection before purchase. Also, ask the seller directly if it has been in any accidents or had any body work done.

The '08 is early in the cycle of Gen 2s. Check to see if the timing chain has stretched as well as checking for any fluid leaks.

Don't know much about the car you are looking at, but options, mileage, condition and the part of the country you are in matter. Go on Craig's list and see what they are asking for MINIs that match the one you are looking at.

Make sure you test drive a Justa also.

 

This is normal and DOES not mean a repaint or repair.

 

Update - This MINI is off of my list now. After a closer look, I figured out that the car must have been repaired. The black stripes did not line up on the hatch and the hatch didn't align well. Anyway, it just goes to show you that a good eye will tell you more than a Carfax...which was very clean in this case.

 

Good luck in your search. Hope you find a good one.