Hello Everyone,

I purchased a 2007 MINI COOPER S with 93K miles, this past weekend. I was looking for quick, fun, and decent mpg 2nd vehicle. Was considering a Honda Civic Si, Accord/Camry/Avalon V6, but the prices are on the high side for what I was seeing. My budget was $8k and I was able to find a MINI in Chantilly, VA, and it came with a documented history. Vehicle passed VA inspection in April, and is scheduled for MD inspection this weekend. Ordered an Ultragauge and CravenSpeed dipstick.

Finally, thank you to the current and previous members that have shared their MINI knowledge and experiences. I have read countless threads, repairs, and links that are extremely helpful.






FORD MAVERICK welcoming the new guy home.

 

Added a few pieces:



Needed a new antenna and found this stubby on Amazon.

UltraGauge and window mount ($93.75). Easy to setup and it is nice to check things out before the inspection.

Rear knock off “MINI” badge from Amazon. Added silicone to badge and it is gtg. The original was badly faded. Used floss, small plastic stick, and Goo Away to remove the remaining adhesive.

Just like the rear Mini badge, faded. Replacement ordered to add some new life to my 2007 Cooper S.

 

New front OEM badge.

 

Ordered water pipe, water pump, pump wheel, and timing chain kit from Detroit Tuned. Planning to knock out this huge project in the next two weeks.

 

Looks like you have the dreaded steering wheel lock on the display? https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ight-on-431666

I had an 2007 R56 MINI Cooper S and brought it back to life, sold it to a local guy who now autocrosses it.

We are the largest MINI part site, so check us out.

I have been seeing a bunch of those new ford mavericks around.

 

Thank you for that info.

 

Passed Maryland’s re inspection today

Needed to replace a serpentine belt and front parking bulb.

 

Added some Killachrome tips and this perfect I phone holder.








I needed something strong and sturdy because I use my phone for gps (WAZE). No more phone flying around, when I complete a turn, or during launch

 

Time to make room because we are doing the timing chain belt, water pump, water pump wheel, water pipe, and thermostat housing. Will pick up new spark plugs tomorrow.

 

Paw Patrol to the rescue!

 

Somebody has to guard and protect my engine area

 

More progress today. Installed timing chain and everything lines up evenly, correctly, and tight. We are using the kit from Detroit Tuned. https://www.detroittuned.com/mini-n14-timing-chain-kit/




Planning to install the thermostat housing and water pipe tomorrow.

 

Everything done! Kept the old parts for back up because they are in good shape and I like having spare parts. One is none and two is one. Engine sounds and rides great, idle is smooth, and no codes.

Time to spruce up the outside. Added the “S” to the new front grill.

 

Cleaning up the rear wheel hubs to be hit with some Rust-Oleum.


Front pic with new grill and light covers. Prepping for vinyl stripes.




Test fitting the rear for positioning.




I finished cleaning my nuts Will spray them down with some lube to sit overnight.



Added 3 coats of primer.

 

Interesting choice of paper you put those bolts on: Surgical Prep Instructions....

 

Good eye. It was leftover paper from work.

 

Decided to promote my MCS to Corporal and we finished his stripes today. Hmm, I am going to name my 2007 Mini Cooper S “Cpl MCS”.

 

 

Looks great!
Are you planning to black out the waist belt, or to leave it chrome?

 

Thanks. I am planning on leaving the waist belt chrome. It matches the front and rear MINI badges, and prevents me from buying black badges (or something else black).

Replaced rear arch trim claps today. Ordered the rubber trim pieces (below the windshield) today. Did not see any water, but the trim is decaying and not secured on both sides.