What sage advice would anyone be willing to share with me? As the title says, I have a 13k budget (ballpark) but have never owned a Mini, though I have longed for one for many years. Another thing I have to keep in mind is that I am not mechanically inclined, at all. Having said that, I would really like to learn. I do not have access to a Mini dealer, the nearest is about 3 hours away, so learning a thing or two would serve me well, I believe. Any certain years more prone to problems? Any special tools I should plan to invest in?

I did find a 2009 MCS locally with 42k for $13,400. Seems like a good deal, but it is off a lease and that makes me a bit nervous since there is no way of knowing how well the previous owner cared for the car.

Here is a link
http://www.8593730123.com/vehicleima...4049334|336940

One thing I noticed, and I have no idea if it means anything at all, but the Cooper badge on the back is missing.

I have been keeping an eye on the forums, and have communicated with a nice gentlemen selling an 06 with similar miles, but I am afraid he will need to sell before I can buy. Have to sell my Pathfinder first.

I'm just looking for anyone willing to share their wisdom with me. Oh, and I have searched and read this forum quite a bit, but if anyone knows of any particular threads you believe I might find useful, please point me in that direction! Kind regards.