Hey guys, as the title says I am currently in the market for a mini cooper s, either a 2002 or 03 model. I was wondering is there anything I should be on the look out for when checking out the car? I have found a couple I am interested in but I am wondering where there any major problems with these particular years?

Any information on this and help would be greatly appreciated!


Thanks

 

If you can provide links to individual cars for sale then it makes it easier to offer opinions about the specific vehicles you are interested in.

 

This is the main one I am interested in. Mostly because of the color, but also because its the lowest mileage wise I have found so far. It's also a very reasonable price I think.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/cto/2618268632.html

Thanks for the replys!

 

Dont buy an automatic.
kick the front tires, literally, to check for control arm bushings. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtElI_WknGs

strut mushrooming
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthrea...ge2&p=71444747

broken strut tower perch
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ower-help.html

oil leaks

The one thing that I wished I had looked at before buying my MCS was the airfilter. Drove the car for a week, then checked it, it was completely black. Car was extremely clean that why I didn't look.

you can get the VIN number and call a dealer to check service records and history.

 

Cool thanks for the information. I actually provided a link to the one I am interested in but it said something about waiting for moderators to approve it.(I would assume because of the link) Just need to sell my current car, have an 04 srt 4 that's heavily modified but i took an 07 mini s for a test drive and that car was fun as hell. It didnt pull like my neon but man I am hooked on getting a mini now haha. Just hoping it sells soon

Thanks

 

An '07 is going to be a whole other car. Different engine, diffent gearing, different most things. Turbo vs. Supercharger. Basically you're looking for an early first generation R53 (MCS- 1st Gen).

 

Yeah I actually just wanted to get the basic feel for one. I actually want an early due to the fact that I love the whine of the super charger haha.

Thanks for the reply

 

The auto in the MCS is reliable, but the CVT in the regular MINI is known for problems. Just FYI for all models and all years.

 

The earlier years Justa had a CVT, the newer autos are an Aisin 6 speed, great trannys.