2003 MCS w/165k mi, My oil light blinks for about 30 seconds then goes off, I figure I'll make it home (18 miles) and add oil. 10 miles later, the engine makes a clicking sound so I pull over, but before I can stop, poof, engine goes bye bye. My mechanic says a rod shot thru the engine block and the entire engine needs replacing. Cost of 28k mi refurbished engine $4800+$2700 labor for a total cost of $7500.

I still owe $4400 on the car, and resale before the engine dying was around $9000 kbb.

Would you fix it, or junk it and get a new car? I like the mini but $7500 is alot. My budget is around $4500 for repairs

Thanks for any input.

 

First, I'd shop around for a rebuilt engine, but in jolly old England instead of here. A friend purchased a 6 spd tranny with less than 30K miles on it for about $950 which included shipping. The best price he could get here was $1400, buyer pays shipping. For $8,500, Way Motor Works has a Mini that was front end damaged (deer, I think) he will sell you as is. He says the motor is in good condition...you might want to contact him at 317-201-8670 and see what you can work out.

 

first off sorry to hear about that
Depends on how much you love the car. 165K is a whole lot o miles on a 4 cyl supercharged engine.
You have to think also that the trans will also need a rebuild at some point. Even manual trans dont last forever.
especially if its beat on.
This is really your decision but IMHO only 7500 is less than the cost of a newer vehicle and an engine with only 28k should be very strong. PERSONALLY i think i would replace the engine, but i love my mini

 

I think you need to get on EBAY and pick up one of the engines for sale at half the price!!!

 

or give Jan at RMW a call

 

Here is an example of engines you can find on Ebaymotors.

 

Yeah but kind of odd.... they show an engine from an R56 which is NOT the engine you want... Why don't they show the one they are selling?? Careful...

 

$4500 for a used engine with what looks like 85,000 miles on it? Ummm...I'll pass!