Just purchased preowned 2017 convertable from a non MINI dealership. Love it. Kid loves it. Dog loves it.

Am wary because I've read about so many issues. Went ahead and purchased extended manufacturer's warentee. Plan to take to MINI dealer for full inspection this week.

Give it to me straight, guys. The more that gets laid out, the better prepared I can be to keep this babe running healthy. Would like to pass down to kid when old enough.

What are the most common issues I can expect and what do I need to know?

The good stuff is amazing but what's the bad stuff?

 

The 3rd-gen hatch/convertible has been really solid in terms of reliability. As far as I know, there aren't any systemic issues with them, other than an issue with very early F57's that had a hole wearing through in one particular spot of the convertible top. There was a production change to alleviate the problem, but again, that was early (I think just the 2016 models). I know my 2019 F57 with ~30,000 miles has been flawless.

 

I've had a 2016 CPO Cooper Convertible since December. No issues, other than needing the driver adaptations reset to learn my driving style and patterns. The previous owner lived in the San Francisco bay area, and must have driven in a lot of slow and stop/go traffic. The car was shifting into third gear before it hit 20 mph. This was a simple software reset.

I previously owned a 2007 Cooper S hardtop. The build quality, materials and ride/handling of the 2016 are very elevated compared to my old car.

 

For me, the only issue after 18 months has been already having to replace the battery on my 2022 bought used. Whenever you do replace the battery, I'd suggest doing so with the most powerfult battery you can find, as cars now still use a lot of power when parked and turned off.

My dealer wanted $800 for the official BMW battery, but I ended up with an Interstate group size H7 battery, installed by British Worx OC for half the price, and supposedly more power. Choices are: MTX-94R/H7 (3 yr free replacement warr + 2x power) or MTZ-94R/H7 (4 yr free replacement warr + 3x power.)