Been lurking around for sometime, and see one I like with low miles.

I will definitely get a PPI nearby before buying.
For those who owns the same engine (N18, I think), aside from religious oil change, checking, and top off, what else should I look for or can perform preemptively?

thanks!

 

pickup a cheap OBD2 scanner off amazon before you go look at the vehicle


*if you use android - get the bluetooth OBD2 adapter
*if you use apple - get the wifi OBD2 adapter


You can plug into the car and record a log file when you take it for a test drive. This will give you a snapshot of the;


coolant temp
timing advance
fuel pressure
ExhaustGas Temp
Intake manifold pressure
Turbo boost pressure
Vacuum pressure


..from there, it will be pretty easy to spot any issue with the fuel pumps, vac pump, wastegate, MAF sensor..etc.



**Plan on changing the spark plugs right away! Its real cheap insurance!

 

Check out the FAQs at the top of the 2nd Gen forum.

If you can find an experienced MINI mechanic, that would be fantastic. Generalists, and even BMW mechanics may not recognize some issues.

Your knowledge from reviewing the FAQs will help your discussion with the PPI mechanic and will help you decide how serious any potential problems might be.

Good luck!