OK I am in the market for a used Mini. I have heard that there were some problems with the 2002 Minis. I found a 2002 that has about 37,000 miles on it and is listed for 11,900. What should I watch out for? Oh and I live in the hill section of Austin, so I would probably climb a few hills with it.

Cheers

 

The earlier built MINIs had a few issues.
My #1 advice is to avoid the CVT (auto) transmission!

Also, visit MotoringFile where a buyers guide was created a while ago:
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/
... Generally speaking 2002 MINIs are great cars. But these and other issues make them less desirable then their newer counterparts ...

 

Airbag problems and power steering fans and pumps are soem of the issues that plague or beloved cars

 

I am also looking at an 02 MCS about the same price BUT with 60K mile today. Some suggestions that I got was same are the same as this thread. Also check out the windows motor, coolant expansion tank, and front control arm bushing. Good luck with your buy.

 

That covers just about everything. The airbag light is also another issue but I have heard but not confirmed that they extended the warranty on the airbag issue until 200,000 miles.

I think the 2002 are a great car and mine has been good so far.

 

11.9k is a pretty decent price. it's an mc, not an mcs?

 

I believe it is just a mc and not a sport. :(

 

We have owned a '02 R50 CVT since new for the past 6 years with no problems. Hard working daily driver. I have been quasi-obessive with the maintenance of the car. The car will be sold in the next couple of months to make space for a new Clubman S.

 

Sounds like a good price for an MC>
There are lots of them around, so make sure you pick the one that you really want.