We have a 2004 Mini, Base, 5 speed. Ever since they were reintroduced I thought it was a cool looking car. We bought it last fall with 160K miles and it's a blast to drive. I'm also learning all about the 'normal' issues the early ones have. It's Pure Silver with Cold Weather, Sport and Premium packages. I've visited this site many times in the past few months for the following issues: cooling fan, shift cables, rear door latch, power steering fan, power steering pump, steering shaft seized, loose door windows, low tire indicator light, door locks not working. Now that I'm ready to pull the transmission to fix the pop cycle stick in the bicycle spokes noise (in reverse only), I'm wondering is the transmission case going to be ruined or will I be able to replace the bearings and seals and be good to go.

 

I have no idea, perhaps you should do a search in the gen 1 sub-forum