New here and was wondering if someone could help me out .. I want a mini cooper automatic without a cvt transmission... which model years are safe? Also how do I tell for sure if it has a cvt or not? I've been trying to find stuff online but it's unreliable. Thanks

 

I'm pretty sure that all of the 2nd-gen MINIs (2007+) that do not have six-speed manuals have the conventional automatic transmission. I have read around here that the last few years of the 1st-gen could also be equipped with the conventional auto.

Hopefully someone who knows more will be along shortly to chime in.

 

All the S' AUTO'S....so 2005+ on gen 1 cars are conventional....cvt was on just the base cooper gen1 cars.

 

Correct. Any 'S' has the Aisin 6-speed torque-converter tranny... as do all auto tranny MINIs from '07+ (I forget how the Gen 1 and Gen 2 convertibles overlap, so take that into account if it matters to you.)

If you want to avoid the CVT, then stay away from base Coopers from '02-'06.

 

Thanks.... One other question... Are the cvts really that bad? Everything I've read said they are horrible but then again people don't post stuff unless there's something wrong usually.

 

I have an '06 MCSa with the Aisin 6-speed. I put in standard shift mode at the track and it takes a beating with no issues. I have a little over 50k miles, I change the so called "lifetime fluid" myself and it's been great.

 

I think it would probably be wise to steer clear of the CVT transmission.

 

There are probably plenty out there running okay, but when they do grenade, it's a $7000 kick in the ***, and there is generally no repairing, only replacing. Don't buy a CVT, there are better options.

 

Is an LSD the same as a Getrag trans?
I know you can have a Getrag w/LSD.........

 

LSD means limited slip differential which was available, as an option, only on the Getrag 6-speed manual transmission. I believe the LSD option is gone replaced with some electronic magic.