I came across an 06 MC (non-S) in chilli-red that's selling for 12k. It's the one with 5-speed getrag transmission. It has 58k miles on it and seems to be in pretty great condition. Would you guys recommend me buying the car? I've always wanted a Mini Cooper but I've read that these Minis have issues with transmission and the replacement costs a fortune. Please help me out y'all.

 

I also found another 06 MC that has 84k miles on it. It's selling for 10k. The only difference is that it has an automatic transmission. Which do you think is better?

 

The auto transmission in the non-S 06 MC is the CVT type that is a ticking time bomb and should be avoided, especially at 84K miles. The 5-speed Getrag manual transmission is good quality and reliable.

 

Go with the 5 speed manual transmission, run from the CVT!

 

I noticed that MINI's with the CVT are almost impossible to give away...

 

In this situation I'd go for the 5 speed as well.
I do have an auto in my 07 MCS and love it but
I do miss the manual every once in awhile.

 

THIS!

 

Not that I am trying to disagree, but my mother has had an 04 justa CVT since brand new and the only trouble she's had with the CVT was that she needed a software update on it to make it smoother operating, 65,000 mi and counting. She doesn't beat on it, though. Just thought I'd share.

 

But what would you say to the OP, who is considering a used CVT with 84K miles?

Here is MotoringFile's R50/R53 Buyers Guide: http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

 

Good point! I'd say the CVT is a snooze fest and it feels similar to driving with a transmission made of rubber bands.

 

'06 was the 1st gen's best year. The 'lump', solid iron engine, and the Getrag are both dang near bullet proof. Jump on that puppy! You'll probably find that it has had a motor mount replaced as well as one or two thermostat housing gaskets but that is just part of the MINI mystique.
Put this URL in your favorites MINI folder and let the Motoring begin.
http://www.motorcycleroads.us/index.html

 

Bad news. The 06 MC with 5-spd transmission is already sold. How much would replacing the CVT on an 06 MC cost?

 

Do not buy that CVT, OP. It will cost ~$7000 and will probably break again.

If you find another '06 MC 5spd, have it checked out, and get it. It's arguably the "sweet spot" of reliability for the brand. I absolutely love mine.

 

+1

 

It would cost more than the car is worth unless you got it dirt cheapr or for free.

 

I so agree with this. Before I was hit head on in my '06 MC 18 months ago, I was at 125K on the mileage and was planning to give it to my son. It was rock solid.

 

Look for another 05-06 MC or MCS and stay away from the CVT's at all cost!! Unless you like 2700 pound paper weights in your driveway taking up space. They are not worth it! Keep looking for a getrag 5 or 6 speed transmission, you will be happier in the long run. Fly n Brick and the others are right, RUN FROM THE CVT!!

 

If or when you purchase a MINI with a 5 or 6 speed transmission, I would highly recommend a fluid change even though the say it is a lifetime fluid.

 

Buzzsaw had his big chance and blew it. He is the author of soopercooperinfo.com, a compendium of a brazillian links to everything MINI including independent repair shops all across the country. He could have rung his own bell but chose not to or it was too early in the morning, one or the other. Add it to your MINI favorites file along with the motorcycle road link. You'll be glad you did.

Well, I guess I blew it. He has it listed on his signature line.

 

Or, if you want an auto look for an '07 MC, as the CVT was done away with and is a proper 6spd aisin steptronic automatic transmission w/ sport mode.