Hi f56 owners!

I'm really toying with the idea of leaving my GTI and getting something with more of an edge (the GTI is too refined and plain for me in alot of ways).

I drove the f56 when they first came out and have always really liked them. I've found a couple used ones (with manual trans) that seem to be a really good deal. All that said, I've been hesitant to buy a MINI because of reliability. How has the f56 held up so far? Anything to watch out for? MINI has been in my head so long I feel like I finally want to own one and I should just buy while its under warranty.

Thanks!

 

5K miles on mine and no issues except for the stinky AC on start up. Cars manufactured prior to April 2014 have an issue with the AC evaporator and there is a TSB for replacement. Cars made after that date have the new evaporator, but still have an issue with a smell on start up (dissipates within seconds of start up). No TSB issued for fix yet.

As with all cars, some will have issues (major and minor) and most of those are voiced on forums like this one. Most posts usually asking if anyone else is experiencing similar problem or as a way of venting frustration. Should not let this color ones perspective on purchase until more than a few complain of similar issue.

 

A/C stink , solar / window auto sensor ( front windshield ) gel pack leaky, leaky washer just that make marks on the stripes. They issued new parts for the washer jets and gel pack. Those are some of the big ones I have seen.

 

Most of the issues seem to have popped up in the 2014, the first year, and the 2015s have scattered small issues, which if you're buying from a dealer should be sorted.

If you're buying from a dealer, I assume you'd be looking at CPOs? If so, you don't have much to worry about. You'll have the remainder of the factory warranty and maintenance, plus the extra two years CPO warranty.

 

I agree, CPO is the way to go. I have 7K on mine at this time with no problems other than the recall for side impact improvement. Warranty is good until 2019 or 75K miles. After my R56 with 129K miles it's nice to not be wondering what part is gonna fail next.

 

We have 2 2015 model S automatics. Zero problems thus far. One car has 6700 miles and the other about 7400 miles. We like them a lot. Much more refined than our 2009 cars and like I said zero problems. Not even a rattle.

 

I have a 2014 justa with manual trans and 55K miles, including a 14K jaunt around the USA and southern Canada this past summer.

I've had a couple of recalls, all done at no cost. The only major problem I've had is a front brake caliper freezing up, replaced under warranty. The only minor problem is the front driver's side parking light bulb burning out twice, also replaced under warranty.

Other than that, the car has been very reliable and I've enjoyed every minute of driving it.