Hello,
Looking at buying a used Mini between '02-'06, with a milage range of 50K to 110K. Any known problems with higher milage, or a certain year I should stay away from?

 

02-04 are slightly different animals from 05-06. Go with an 05-06 is you can. All the bugs are worked out.

BTW, it's a MINI Mini.

 

I bought mines used (2004). I have no regrets and it's running great! But from what I've heard, the transmission is different on 2005 + models and so is the head light projectors. I'd try go with a 05+ and then look for a mileage that fits you budget.

 

Nothing really out of the ordinary, the Mini's seem to hold up really well. Some watchout areas:

2002-4 Mini Cooper CVT ("automatic") transmissions
Non Getrag 2002-3 Mini Cooper (non-S) transmissions
Abused cars (some folks beat on 'em - though they still seem to hold up well)
Other standard used car stuff - have a mechanic take a really good look.

Cruise the forums, use the search function - there's a LOT of information here and it's reasonably easy to find.

You'll also get a sense of what this part of the Mini community is all about. I've been in on a lot of car forums (and some clubs), and for some reason this car seems to attract a very community-oriented, fun crowd.

Good luck!

 

See my response in your other thread:
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=149557

 

If you can afford it, I'd recommend the '05 or '06 models as well. There was a slight model update for those that took care of a few issues.

Dixon's list looks pretty good and there was a used MINI buying guide put up over on www.motoringfile.com about a year ago that was pretty good too.

 

Oh - and be sure to talk to Aaron about his air horn mod...

 

agreed...its a MINI cooper(s) ...not a BMW mini. Kinda like no ever wanted a Ford Jaguar or a Chrysler Lamborghini

 

Heh! I let it do all the talking for me!

 

if THAT is "talking", I'd hate to hear yelling!
... about blew me out of my skin at MOTD!

 

Heh... I've changed the regulator since then and dialed up the pressure. It's even LOUDER now!

 

YESSSS!

(what?)

Aaron, since seeing (hearing) your car, I'm putting the plans together for a one-ball or Alta (or custom) exhaust - nothing too loud - but something that frees up one exhaust spot for some big horns. I want folks to think the entire Norfolk Southern Railroad is on their rear end...