Hi, my name is Mike and I just got a 2002 MCS a week ago. Don't know much about coopers, but eager to learn... and definitely mod... Car runs smooth, however interior is in pretty bad shape. Also, had several (that I found out are very common) problems that I already fixed, or being fixed right now. Had several leaks (oil pan gasket, was one) that are being fixed. I had to change fan assembly as my low speed sensor failed. Unfortunately, that failure seemed to cause air conditioning thermostat to fail (as AC kicks in, but no cold air is blowing). Also had to install new outside temperature sensor, as mine was gone Also had to order new bushings for front control arms, the ones on mini are shot beyond belief

Next couple of things to do to interior will be to remove headliner as it sagging immensely. Also, most likely will have to replace both seats, as they are all torn up. Any suggestions on how to stop airbag light from turning "ON" if I put the seats that do not have airbags in them (thinking race-style seats)?

Also need to address my suspension, as both rear shocks are leaking. Thinking BC Sports or similar adjustable coil-overs.

I like the car overall. I will post pictures soon. Its a sky-blue color mini with some white stripping. I am not sure if this is some sort of special edition or not, but I seem to have sort of body kit, or at least front and rear bumpers don't look like any that I saw on Minis around. Also, have a spoiler. Did Mini Cooper had anything like that OEM?

Anyway, happy to be here and start learning...

 

Welcome! I can't help you at all with modding as I personally have not been brave enough to try anything as of yet. But you are definitely in the right place for good advice. Congrats on your buy!

 

 

Welcome to the MINacs.

Headliner, I just did mine in #211, I personally tried twice to recover it and not being happy with my own work, I turned to some pros, they recovered my headliner for just over $100 and then only an hour later I had the whole thing put back together. (Getting it out, you will pretty much strip the entire interior, it only takes about an hour. Basic tools screw driver, pliers, panel puller tools, and plastic bags for all your screws and clips).


It looks like it has the JCW Aero Kit... NICE.

 

Nice find,

Its and Electric Blue with White top and white bonnet stripes. Also has a factory MINI Aero body kit, They also painted the wheel arches and the black parts on the Aero kit for the full body painted look. You also have R90 MINI wheels in silver. Its not a special edition but the EB are a little rare, in the combo also. Looks like the put an aftermarket mesh lower grille, look home made and painted the lips on the upper grilles to EB also.




Here is a Cooper S EB in aero kit normal.

 

02 S had a spoiler too





headliners are something that 9 of 10 learn are better left to a 'pro' .... they can do it in less time and it usually comes out better (altho I DID redo the one in my 79 .... the pro's had never seen one like that! ... I didn't replace it, I painted it with special paint to cover some serious stains and a scorch mark)


There were no 'special editions' in 02. The AERO KIT was an option and EB a standard color. The painted arches and stuff was not a factory option, but I know a few folks who had it done at local body shops.

 

Painted arches and body kit looks really good, nice looking r53.

 

thanks for all the info guys... learning so much already...

 

Welcome.

 

Welcome!! Have a blast!! Good to see you are reading and learning...
Tons of info in many older threads here...
Google "site search" will get the ones that have "aged out" from the built in search engine (limits dates to prevent dead threads from getting brought to life will mostly gone members and dead links, etc).