Hi everyone,

I'm new to NAM and am pretty excited about getting into the Mini world! I found a 2009 JCW with about 80k miles, full service records up for grabs and wanted to see how you guys and gals felt about it. They replaced the belt tensioner and had the turbo lines changed (they provided proof of service) and are the original owner. I have yet to drive it to verify the clutch, but I imagine if it has made it to 80k thus far and hasn't given them any issue, I might be able to squeeze even more out of it.

Is there something specific I should check or investigate further? I've gotten pictures of the interior/exterior and engine bay and nothing to the naked eye looks out of place or funky (like discoloration of heat shielding, etc). The high miles are a bit of a concern, but I think proper maintenance>lower miles. Appreciate any input, thanks again!

 

Check for timing chain since it has the N14 motor, carbon buildup(known issue with the turbo's), oil leaks/oil being consumed, and test drive the crap out of her to make sure she is in one piece before you purchase the car. Other than that, I can't think of anything else at this time, others will post here for you.

 

Rob hit the two big ones, the timing chain stretches till its out of spec. and with that many miles it probably is pretty carboned up. I would get an extended warrenty that would cover those things for peace of mind.

 

That sounds good to me. They mentioned the timing chain guides had been replaced, I'm going to try to get the VIN and have a local dealer run the service history on it. I'm aware of the carbon deposits, has anyone had any luck using that seafoam carbon cleaner?

 

SeaFoam is a BandAid it works but its not a "Cure All" as compared to a walnut blasting.. I would think if you would get walnut blasted then with Seafoam it at 5K than do your oil changes there too. I would think that should keep things cleaner for awhile longer.
But you will need that another Walnut blasting eventually, but not near as soon as not using Seafoam. A lot of buildup depends on how the car is driven, maintained, climate and even type oil... and possibly the weather in France when your block was cast(just guessing) and Of course who was playing soccer that day.

So if your valves area already coated bad, maybe a little difference, but if your valves were clean to begin with you just cleaned the dust before it turns into gunk (I don't need any of you "Kool Aid" drinkers to take this literally)


I did one Seafoam treatment at 16k and yes it did make a difference. I will do it again before next oil change.