Hello there,I don't own a mini yet. Im considering buying one and im sure you guys are the best source of info. I own a mazdaspeed3 currently and despite all the fun and stupendous power you get for such a cheap price the car is proving to be extremely unreliable and costly. I honestly want to know from you folks. how reliable would you rate your mini cooper. Also which is more reliable? 1st gen or second?? what are common issues with each generation??? how often do people blow their engines or ruin their transmissions??

 

Oh boy, this is a double edged sword. IMO Gen 1's are more reliable as they are supercharged and seem to have less issues. Gen 2's are turbocharged and are direct injected and seem to have more issues and need more maintenance that the Gen1's. Again IMO.

Transmission don't have too many issues in either. Clutches have been a problem more in the Gen 2's if you search this forum. Also you will need to have a carbon cleaning on the Gen 2's as preventative maintenance to avoid major engine issues.

Do a search on both and you will see more of the issues each one has then you can make your own decision.

Drive both to see and feel the differences also. The gen 1 is raw as the gen 2 is more refined.

Good luck either way.

 

Thanx for your imput.when you mentioned direct injected gen2 I can understand where all the issues might come from.My mazdaspeed3 is also turbo direct inject, a very innovative technology that makes great torque down low but creates the carbon build up issue you just mentioned and ive seen this too first hand. Ultimately I also know heat from turbos fatigues ingines a lot. Thanx for your input. More opinions and info please. what should I look out for when buying?

 

I can understand the reduced reliability with second gens.turbo cars are greatly affected by heat and direct injection creates that problem of dirty valves.my mazdaspeed3 I exactly the same way. Thanks for your opinion