Hello everyone,


I just bought my 2005 MCS ragtop almost two months ago with just under 12,000 miles on it. Yes thats what's on the odometer and after bringing it to my mechanic am questioning it.. The guy I bought it from swears its original miles and is reasearching carfax and the original owner as we speak. Overall the car looks to be in good shape. However, the front pads and rotors need to be replaced and rears looks like they were just done. Oil looks to be leaking a little out of some gaskets. and I have the tri fecta warning lights on. Ive been reading that may be wheel speed sensors? could it be from the front pads being really worn down?


I wanted to see if you or someone you know is a mini mechanic and could help me by looking over the car to see with your experience it has more miles then the tac says. I live around the Bridgewater area.


Thank so much if anyone is wiling to help.
Travis

 

It is a very low mileage car car. If it was stored or not driven for a long time with the emergency brake on, the rear brakes may have been 'frozen' and required replacement for sale. If the fronts look questionable, the rotor may have built up some surface rust which make them look worn.

If the car has the original tires on it, that may be a clue that the original mileage may be correct. Change them anyway as tires should be replaced every five years.

 

Great that it is so low mileage, but the best would to find a MINI specialist and have them check it over. Ask MINI owners in your area and see who they recommend as there surely is someone.

 

Here's a database of MINI service shops around the country.
http://www.minirepairshops.com/
Something else you really want to do is treat the canvas soon. Two products are at the top of the list, you can find them both on Amazon: RaggTopp and 303 convertible top cleaner...flip a coin.
Do not run the top back and leave it down when it is wet - mildew. If it gets a little dirty when up and I want to run it down I use the shop vac with upholstery brush to clean the back. Dirt and grit will eventually cut the fabric.

 

PS: Pictures, dammit, pictures! Without pictures, it didn't happen. Woops, you did post a picture...sorry.
You will have a challenge keeping black looking sharp. Quite a few of us OCD (obsessive compulsive detailers) use Griot's Garage products.
https://www.griotsgarage.com/home.do

 

Welcome to NAM and the world of MINI motoring! We have a number of application guides and service & maintenance guides on our website, so please be sure to visit.

Might want to have Denson's in Martinsville check it out, or Eurosport in Westfield. http://new.minimania.com/article/319...ners_and_Shops

Hope this helps!

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

yes good call about the rear brakes being frozen thats very true. thanks just ordered 303 off amazon. Maybe ill bring the mini by the shop in Martinsville. very helpful guys thanks again!


With your guys experience what are clear tell signs the car has many more miles on it then the clock shows? Would anyone have any pictures of what specific engine parts look like at say 100,000 miles? or seat wear / steering wheel? etc.


Bc my seats, convertiable top are in great shape, along with the whole interior. my mechanic was saying how the oil seals appear to be going leaking oil (which i agree with him) and belts look pretty worn..


Thanks for anyones help