Hi All,

I'm a 25 year old woman, and I've always loved MINI's. I found an automatic 2010 Mini Cooper S on Craigslist. I've read tons of reviews with both pros and cons for Mini's. Can anyone give me advice on what to look for? I spoke to the guy selling it. He said he has all of the maintenance records. He said he replaced the timing chain, radiator and water pump this past December. Is that a bad sign? Oh, the car has 92,500 miles on it. Thanks!

 

Welcome to NAM. I'd highly suggest taking it to a MINI indy shop in your area to have it looked over. They will be able to look out for problem areas for that year. Timing chain is good that it has been done as the N14's do have timing issues. You'll just want to always keep an eye on your oil level as the guides wear from lack of lubrication and running low on engine oil. Did he say that any other items have been replaced? Post up the add for us to see.

 

Below is the Craigslist ad:

https://atlanta.craigslist.org/sat/cto/5482305972.html

The timing chain, water pump, and radiator were the only thing he mentioned.

 

I'd check the service records as the individual states they have them available. I'd see if the thermostat or anything else has been replaced. It looks to be in pretty good condition. I'd still recommend a pre-purchase inspection by a MINI shop just so you know if there is anything that would need to be fixed.

 

Great! Thanks for your help

 

You're welcome. If you need help finding a MINI shop in your area you can use this site: http://www.minirepairshops.com/. Good luck and I'm sure other members will have some good input for you as well.

 

Don't buy a MINI with the N14 engine. Too many possible problems including: oil consumption, carbon build-up and timing chain problems.

Avoid:
2007 – 2010 R56 S model (N14 engine)
2009 – 2010 R57 S model convertible (N14 engine)
2008 – 2010 R55S Clubman S (N14 engine)
Also - the JCW used the N14 thru 2012

 

Turn and run the other way! Seriously these Mini Coopers are money pits and I'm sure the current owner feels the same way having to replace a timing chain before 100k. These Coopers S weren't built to last pure and simple. These Mini's drink oil like crazy and most buy new and don't know, most don't even think to check oil levels on a brand spanking new car and usually end up bringing it into the dealer with very little oil. Heard this story countless times.

 

I do wish you the best of luck in your search for the perfect MINI. More advice - if you're going to buy a used MINI, only buy one with a warranty. When I bought my 2015 (with 5,000 miles on the odometer) I got a 4-year / 75,000 mile warranty from the MINI dealer at no extra charge. I plan to offload the car as soon as the warranty ends.

The other option is to buy new. The MINI dealer will treat you like a queen...the treatment includes free loaner cars, oil changes, etc. However, I will warn you once the warranty is over so is the love...be prepared for very expensive repairs.

The other thing that you should be aware of is the run flat tires...they are standard on the S models and are very expensive to replace.

 

+1 what systemlord and mini_wisconsin said.
Keep looking, your MINI is out there.