New and confused.
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1st Gear
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 13
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New and confused.
Hi!
I'm new to NAM... I've been driving a 2010 Jetta and the lease is expiring soon. I've test driven several cars, none as fun as the MINI. I'm finally looking to buy my own car but I just graduated from grad school and money is tight. However, that said, I'm rather confused about some things and I would love some input on the matter.
1. Are there some models from any specific years that I should avoid??
2. Is there a significant difference between the non-S and the S versions (besides the power)? I drive around 7-8miles to work and am mostly a city driver. Road-trips are reserved usually for long weekends/ holidays.
3. If I'm looking at a used car, do I truly need the warranty (factory vs. extended vs. both). The extended warranty is rather expensive :(
4. Maintenance - is a maintenance package necessary for used cars (esp if I look at older models like the 06-09)..those are rather pricey too :(
5. Most of the MINIs available come with a manual transmission. Is there any flip-side to owning one with an automatic transmission??
I know some of these questions might seem vague (and subjective), some even silly, but any input is welcome.
I'm new to NAM... I've been driving a 2010 Jetta and the lease is expiring soon. I've test driven several cars, none as fun as the MINI. I'm finally looking to buy my own car but I just graduated from grad school and money is tight. However, that said, I'm rather confused about some things and I would love some input on the matter.
1. Are there some models from any specific years that I should avoid??
2. Is there a significant difference between the non-S and the S versions (besides the power)? I drive around 7-8miles to work and am mostly a city driver. Road-trips are reserved usually for long weekends/ holidays.
3. If I'm looking at a used car, do I truly need the warranty (factory vs. extended vs. both). The extended warranty is rather expensive :(
4. Maintenance - is a maintenance package necessary for used cars (esp if I look at older models like the 06-09)..those are rather pricey too :(
5. Most of the MINIs available come with a manual transmission. Is there any flip-side to owning one with an automatic transmission??
I know some of these questions might seem vague (and subjective), some even silly, but any input is welcome.
Welcome aboard.
1. Are there some models from any specific years that I should avoid??
2002-2003 and 2007 as these are 1st year models and IMO had many issues
2. Is there a significant difference between the non-S and the S versions (besides the power)? I drive around 7-8miles to work and am mostly a city driver. Road-trips are reserved usually for long weekends/ holidays.
No real difference except power. They still handle the same and both benefit from suspension tweaks.
3. If I'm looking at a used car, do I truly need the warranty (factory vs. extended vs. both). The extended warranty is rather expensive :(
You NEED the longest warranty you can afford. Unfortunately it will probably pay for itself in the long run.
4. Maintenance - is a maintenance package necessary for used cars (esp if I look at older models like the 06-09)..those are rather pricey too :(
Don't bother with one. Learn how to do it yourself and you will save lots of money. Get a Bentley manual to help you learn how to work on your MINI yourself.
5. Most of the MINIs available come with a manual transmission. Is there any flip-side to owning one with an automatic transmission??
This is a personal prefernce. IMO get a stick. MINI automatics again IMO take some of the fun away from your MINI and some seem to have problems.
Read this and it will help answer some question about early R50/53 models.
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/
Also on that same site you can learn about all modesl like the R56. Then you can decide for yourself.
My advice is buy the lowest mileage MINI you can find and get the longest extended warranty you can afford.
1. Are there some models from any specific years that I should avoid??
2002-2003 and 2007 as these are 1st year models and IMO had many issues
2. Is there a significant difference between the non-S and the S versions (besides the power)? I drive around 7-8miles to work and am mostly a city driver. Road-trips are reserved usually for long weekends/ holidays.
No real difference except power. They still handle the same and both benefit from suspension tweaks.
3. If I'm looking at a used car, do I truly need the warranty (factory vs. extended vs. both). The extended warranty is rather expensive :(
You NEED the longest warranty you can afford. Unfortunately it will probably pay for itself in the long run.
4. Maintenance - is a maintenance package necessary for used cars (esp if I look at older models like the 06-09)..those are rather pricey too :(
Don't bother with one. Learn how to do it yourself and you will save lots of money. Get a Bentley manual to help you learn how to work on your MINI yourself.
5. Most of the MINIs available come with a manual transmission. Is there any flip-side to owning one with an automatic transmission??
This is a personal prefernce. IMO get a stick. MINI automatics again IMO take some of the fun away from your MINI and some seem to have problems.
Read this and it will help answer some question about early R50/53 models.
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/
Also on that same site you can learn about all modesl like the R56. Then you can decide for yourself.
My advice is buy the lowest mileage MINI you can find and get the longest extended warranty you can afford.
If you can yes. Then you can be the 1st to drive it and customize it your way. You will then have a full warranty. Either way you will enjoy a MINI.
5th Gear
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 754
Likes: 1
From: Bucks County PA
The real difference between an S and non S. is the required maintenance. I do love the S but for me it has too much power and can get me into trouble. I have gone 22 years without a ticket and don't want one now. The automatic (Steptronic) is the best transmission that I have ever driven. Shift points are great and you can still manually shift when needed like on the dragon. I would order a new non S. (aka justa) and pick and chose my options. Of course, to your taste. We are getting ready to order our second MINI. An R59. Color was the hardest part. Good Luck!!!!
Thread Starter
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1st Gear
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
I currently have an eye on a 2012 S Hardtop with 27,137 miles, Certified pre-owned (factory warranty until 2018) maintenance runs out in 9/2014 for $25K (out-the-door price). Any thoughts????
Do you think a the S-version is worth the additional sticker price that it comes with??? Also, with a new car, wouldn't I lose a significant portion in depreciation?? Or are MINIs good in holding their value?
Do you think a the S-version is worth the additional sticker price that it comes with??? Also, with a new car, wouldn't I lose a significant portion in depreciation?? Or are MINIs good in holding their value?
3rd Gear
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 294
Likes: 0
From: Denver, CO
The "your way" is key. You can save a chunk o' change getting a car equipped with all the stuff you want and none of the stuff that you don't.
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3rd Gear
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: East TN
Hey New & Confused!!!
Listen to Bramie b/c he is THE Bramiexpert!!
I did a great deal of research & finally decided on newer model w/warranty. I also got a manual but that is my personal preference. I did talk to several at MOTD who enjoy automatic more & had great reasons as to why they do. As for the S or non-S....mine is the S but I certainly would have been just as pleased with non-S. Def more power than I need. There was several that you might really want to avoid. Not only did I find this in my research but my favorite MA told me the same. For me, I am avoiding ALL black vehicles for I have spent 3 days polishing my other one & I now HATE IT!!! :( lol lol
Hope this helps!
From 'Not as new & always confused'
\m/
Listen to Bramie b/c he is THE Bramiexpert!!
I did a great deal of research & finally decided on newer model w/warranty. I also got a manual but that is my personal preference. I did talk to several at MOTD who enjoy automatic more & had great reasons as to why they do. As for the S or non-S....mine is the S but I certainly would have been just as pleased with non-S. Def more power than I need. There was several that you might really want to avoid. Not only did I find this in my research but my favorite MA told me the same. For me, I am avoiding ALL black vehicles for I have spent 3 days polishing my other one & I now HATE IT!!! :( lol lol
Hope this helps!
From 'Not as new & always confused'
\m/
Thread Starter
|
1st Gear
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
Hey New & Confused!!!
Listen to Bramie b/c he is THE Bramiexpert!!
I did a great deal of research & finally decided on newer model w/warranty. I also got a manual but that is my personal preference. I did talk to several at MOTD who enjoy automatic more & had great reasons as to why they do. As for the S or non-S....mine is the S but I certainly would have been just as pleased with non-S. Def more power than I need. There was several that you might really want to avoid. Not only did I find this in my research but my favorite MA told me the same. For me, I am avoiding ALL black vehicles for I have spent 3 days polishing my other one & I now HATE IT!!! :( lol lol
Hope this helps!
From 'Not as new & always confused'
\m/
Listen to Bramie b/c he is THE Bramiexpert!!
I did a great deal of research & finally decided on newer model w/warranty. I also got a manual but that is my personal preference. I did talk to several at MOTD who enjoy automatic more & had great reasons as to why they do. As for the S or non-S....mine is the S but I certainly would have been just as pleased with non-S. Def more power than I need. There was several that you might really want to avoid. Not only did I find this in my research but my favorite MA told me the same. For me, I am avoiding ALL black vehicles for I have spent 3 days polishing my other one & I now HATE IT!!! :( lol lol
Hope this helps!
From 'Not as new & always confused'
\m/And yes... Bramiexpert has been extremely helpful!
Thread Starter
|
1st Gear
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
Also, if the base model is driven in the "Sport"-mode....does that damage the engine/ transmission/ power-train (I'm clearly clueless here)? I'm guessing it would consume more petrol too???? And is there a a reason why the S-version also has a sports-mode button??
As confused as ever! :p
As confused as ever! :p
Welcome aboard.
1. Are there some models from any specific years that I should avoid??
2002-2003 and 2007 as these are 1st year models and IMO had many issues
2. Is there a significant difference between the non-S and the S versions (besides the power)? I drive around 7-8miles to work and am mostly a city driver. Road-trips are reserved usually for long weekends/ holidays.
No real difference except power. They still handle the same and both benefit from suspension tweaks.
3. If I'm looking at a used car, do I truly need the warranty (factory vs. extended vs. both). The extended warranty is rather expensive :(
You NEED the longest warranty you can afford. Unfortunately it will probably pay for itself in the long run.
4. Maintenance - is a maintenance package necessary for used cars (esp if I look at older models like the 06-09)..those are rather pricey too :(
Don't bother with one. Learn how to do it yourself and you will save lots of money. Get a Bentley manual to help you learn how to work on your MINI yourself.
5. Most of the MINIs available come with a manual transmission. Is there any flip-side to owning one with an automatic transmission??
This is a personal prefernce. IMO get a stick. MINI automatics again IMO take some of the fun away from your MINI and some seem to have problems.
Read this and it will help answer some question about early R50/53 models.
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/
Also on that same site you can learn about all modesl like the R56. Then you can decide for yourself.
My advice is buy the lowest mileage MINI you can find and get the longest extended warranty you can afford.
1. Are there some models from any specific years that I should avoid??
2002-2003 and 2007 as these are 1st year models and IMO had many issues
2. Is there a significant difference between the non-S and the S versions (besides the power)? I drive around 7-8miles to work and am mostly a city driver. Road-trips are reserved usually for long weekends/ holidays.
No real difference except power. They still handle the same and both benefit from suspension tweaks.
3. If I'm looking at a used car, do I truly need the warranty (factory vs. extended vs. both). The extended warranty is rather expensive :(
You NEED the longest warranty you can afford. Unfortunately it will probably pay for itself in the long run.
4. Maintenance - is a maintenance package necessary for used cars (esp if I look at older models like the 06-09)..those are rather pricey too :(
Don't bother with one. Learn how to do it yourself and you will save lots of money. Get a Bentley manual to help you learn how to work on your MINI yourself.
5. Most of the MINIs available come with a manual transmission. Is there any flip-side to owning one with an automatic transmission??
This is a personal prefernce. IMO get a stick. MINI automatics again IMO take some of the fun away from your MINI and some seem to have problems.
Read this and it will help answer some question about early R50/53 models.
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/
Also on that same site you can learn about all modesl like the R56. Then you can decide for yourself.
My advice is buy the lowest mileage MINI you can find and get the longest extended warranty you can afford.
6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,894
Likes: 8
From: Philly PA
Also, if the base model is driven in the "Sport"-mode....does that damage the engine/ transmission/ power-train (I'm clearly clueless here)? I'm guessing it would consume more petrol too???? And is there a a reason why the S-version also has a sports-mode button??
As confused as ever! :p
As confused as ever! :p
It changes a few settings to make the car feel more peppy.. er - sporty.
It comsumes more fuel.. mainly because your foot is too the floor and having fun.
6th Gear
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 2,358
Likes: 1
From: Graham, NC
Also, if the base model is driven in the "Sport"-mode....does that damage the engine/ transmission/ power-train (I'm clearly clueless here)? I'm guessing it would consume more petrol too???? And is there a a reason why the S-version also has a sports-mode button??
As confused as ever! :p
As confused as ever! :p
jmo, but bottom line the sport mode is more marketing by MINI than anything else.
3rd Gear
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: East TN
Miss me?!?!
All the joking aside, he really knows his stuff!!
Welcome to my world 
........just found out on my trip this week to Nashville that mine has 'magic mirrors' 
........and I thought it was my sunglasses!!
LOL!!! It's reassuring to know that I'm not the only one confused. While I LOVED the power/pop of the turbo engine, the base model was too bad either. I'm just a little more nervous about the price of a pre-owned S (and I do have a lead foot). :(
Seriously, I know nothing but the land of confusion for I have lived there my whole life!! 
And yes... Bramiexpert has been extremely helpful!
Seriously, I know nothing but the land of confusion
for I have lived there my whole life!! And yes... Bramiexpert has been extremely helpful!
Also, if the base model is driven in the "Sport"-mode....does that damage the engine/ transmission/ power-train (I'm clearly clueless here)? I'm guessing it would consume more petrol too???? And is there a a reason why the S-version also has a sports-mode button??
I would not think so..........
As confused as ever! :p
I would not think so..........
As confused as ever! :p
........just found out on my trip this week to Nashville that mine has 'magic mirrors' ........and I thought it was my sunglasses!!
3rd Gear
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: East TN
Look, it is always a gamble when buying any car so take a leap of faith & get one. My new Jetta spent more time at the dealership the 1st 24 mos then in my driveway & I LOVED that car. If it works out GREAT & if not then there is always Craig's list!!!! Take it from someone who obsesses wayyyyyy toooooooo much researching........Get one with some warranty left so at least you will have a better idea of how reliable the car is going to be.
If it works out GREAT & if not then there is always Craig's list!!!! Take it from someone who obsesses wayyyyyy toooooooo much researching........Get one with some warranty left so at least you will have a better idea of how reliable the car is going to be.
6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,894
Likes: 8
From: Philly PA
I researched the poop out of the Mini..
It's not perfect, it needs some TLC, it has quirks..
Sunroofs can get sticky.
Carbon on intake valves on the past engine design.
Oil changes can be too infrequent based on the internal computer.
Bonnet stripes can get blotchy if flat finished.
Run flat tires = crummy ride.
I ordered one.
It's not perfect, it needs some TLC, it has quirks..
Sunroofs can get sticky.
Carbon on intake valves on the past engine design.
Oil changes can be too infrequent based on the internal computer.
Bonnet stripes can get blotchy if flat finished.
Run flat tires = crummy ride.
I ordered one.
Miss me?!?!
Look, it is always a gamble when buying any car so take a leap of faith & get one. My new Jetta spent more time at the dealership the 1st 24 mos then in my driveway & I LOVED that car. If it works out GREAT & if not then there is always Craig's list!!!! Take it from someone who obsesses wayyyyyy toooooooo much researching........Get one with some warranty left so at least you will have a better idea of how reliable the car is going to be.
If it works out GREAT & if not then there is always Craig's list!!!! Take it from someone who obsesses wayyyyyy toooooooo much researching........Get one with some warranty left so at least you will have a better idea of how reliable the car is going to be.
I researched the poop out of the Mini..
It's not perfect, it needs some TLC, it has quirks..
Sunroofs can get sticky.
Carbon on intake valves on the past engine design.
Oil changes can be too infrequent based on the internal computer.
Bonnet stripes can get blotchy if flat finished.
Run flat tires = crummy ride.
I ordered one.
It's not perfect, it needs some TLC, it has quirks..
Sunroofs can get sticky.
Carbon on intake valves on the past engine design.
Oil changes can be too infrequent based on the internal computer.
Bonnet stripes can get blotchy if flat finished.
Run flat tires = crummy ride.
I ordered one.
3rd Gear
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: East TN
I researched the poop out of the Mini..
It's not perfect, it needs some TLC, it has quirks..
Sunroofs can get sticky.
Carbon on intake valves on the past engine design.
Oil changes can be too infrequent based on the internal computer.
Bonnet stripes can get blotchy if flat finished.
Run flat tires = crummy ride.
I ordered one.
It's not perfect, it needs some TLC, it has quirks..
Sunroofs can get sticky.
Carbon on intake valves on the past engine design.
Oil changes can be too infrequent based on the internal computer.
Bonnet stripes can get blotchy if flat finished.
Run flat tires = crummy ride.
I ordered one.
6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,894
Likes: 8
From: Philly PA
I've been a loooong time VW/Audi owner... Consumers *hated* those cars for years... I always had good luck with them...
I'm not planning on failures in the Mini... just its nice to be alert for possible issues so they don't take you by surprise someday.
OVERDRIVE - Racing Champion
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 15,262
Likes: 72
From: Mililani, Hawaii
Your best value is a base Cooper with low miles that still has some warranty (less than 3 years old). For more reliability stick with the Cooper, for urban use it works fine. Either manual or automatic transmission is fine but for stop and go heavy traffic daily the automatic makes more sense.
You can also shop for a new Cooper in your area for comparison.
If you care about options then it's harder to find the right configuration on a used Cooper and usually they are sold with more not less upgrades. When buying a used car tell the seller you don't care about the extras (even if you do).
You can also shop for a new Cooper in your area for comparison.
If you care about options then it's harder to find the right configuration on a used Cooper and usually they are sold with more not less upgrades. When buying a used car tell the seller you don't care about the extras (even if you do).
So this person doesn't get scared of getting a MCS 11+ or whatever 2nd gen. But I only had one issue and that was the thermostat at 23k miles or so. And two recalls work done also(same time at 32k miles), water pump auxiliary and timing chain tensioner.
Other than that she's been good to me. I lost boost one time due to bad fuel but refilled her up with Shell and stuck with it regularly. At 50k miles, I can't complain, most reliable MINI I've had. I had a '08 Cooper, and she was in the shop too many times and eventually said, "reliability issues with a MCS?", when in reality it was basically the car, so I upgraded and been happy with my choice.
Keep in mind whatever you purchase it'll be a great MINI but most of this forum is full of a bunch of babies with bitching and moaning about their issues(I've done it once when my thermostat was replaced). Most owners aren't on here, and imagine how many that aren't on the forum don't have issues with their Cooper, MCS, and JCW. Good luck with your choice!!!
Other than that she's been good to me. I lost boost one time due to bad fuel but refilled her up with Shell and stuck with it regularly. At 50k miles, I can't complain, most reliable MINI I've had. I had a '08 Cooper, and she was in the shop too many times and eventually said, "reliability issues with a MCS?", when in reality it was basically the car, so I upgraded and been happy with my choice.
Keep in mind whatever you purchase it'll be a great MINI but most of this forum is full of a bunch of babies with bitching and moaning about their issues(I've done it once when my thermostat was replaced). Most owners aren't on here, and imagine how many that aren't on the forum don't have issues with their Cooper, MCS, and JCW. Good luck with your choice!!!
Thread Starter
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1st Gear
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 13
Likes: 0
I'm so grateful for all the input I've received on the car. It seems that the general consensus is that, both the non-S or the S, are good, decent and reliable (although both have had their fair share of issues). My biggest hiccup is with the price-tag of the S. Not only are they harder to come-by in automatic, but they come with a lot of miles on them. The base model feels a lot more weak (or am I imagining it)????