I posted this thread in the 1st gear section.
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=108557

I'm looking for Canadian input since we don't get the free full service warranty.

I am thinking about leasing a 2007 Mini Cooper, probably the Classic package.
The dilemna i'm having is that although i love driving, and want a car that i will love, i also hate having to pay for unexpected repairs.

I tend to think that when you buy a fun car you have to sacrifice some reliability and the reliability ratings i have found about the Mini are all over the map. They either say they are extremely reliable or not reliable at all.

So basically what i was hoping to find out is what has your experience with unexpected repairs and their costs been?

And secondly given the type of person i've just described myself as, do you think a Mini is right for me.

So far i've had some good responses and i like the great community Mini owners have but i think i just need a few more responses to make my decision.

Thanks

 

My '04 Cooper Classic has been very reliable in 3+ years as a daily driver.
Aside from 2 scheduled dealer oil changes, 2 unscheduled oil changes done by myself for peace of mind, and 1 oxygen sensor replaced under warranty, all has been well.
The '07's being a new design should only be better.
Our local MINI club was out for a rip around the city last night (11 MINIs total including a 1965 Cooper S) and one gal said her '07 Cooper was her first ever new vehicle and she couldn't stop hugging it!
If you enjoy driving, a new MINI may be just the thing for you, and the new model's improved fuel efficiency will not hurt.

 

No

 

^ I'll see your "no" and raise you a "yes".

 

a 07 will carry a 4 year warranty. Servicing at the dealer or not effect your warranty as long as the work it done at the correct service intervals. All other issues are covered in the warranty.

So in a nutshell you can get a mini and feel ok with it. Since your leasing it you should not worry about too much since after 4 years i assume your going to trade it in for somthing newer.

 

Thanks for the help guys. Im glad to hear it.

What's with the random "NO" in there?

 

Don't pay him any attention. He loves his MINI.

He's vying for class clown and he's trailing MiniMaybee by three votes. That was his late pitch to get more votes before the polls close.

 

I decided to go for it. I just signed the papers for my MINI tonight. Pepper White, Premium Package with black roof and bonnets (sorry i didn't read the sticky about the acronyms). Pretty damn excited about it.

 

Gratz on the order!

And with out the proper acronyms the acronym police will delete all your posts, and kick you from the server.

 

Good to see you've made the leap and have signed on the bottom line.
Your service and repair experience will depend on your local dealer (as with any owner). I'm not sure where you are located so you may have limited choice as to who looks after your car.
I would suggest you seek out a local mini club and start dealing with like minded people who will go to great lengths to make sure your driving experiences are the best they can be.

Good Luck and welcome to NAM