Hey guys,

I'm a new member and looking at buying a MCS by tomorrow.
It is a 2008 Cooper S hardtop with sport, comfort and convenience package.
It has an auto transmission.
Is there any known problems with this car? Anything I should lookout for?

My neighbor warned me about a problem it has due to aluminum heads ... can anyone elaborate on this?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

C

 

Unfortunately, the real trouble spots on the R56s are not readily visible. Try asking the following of the seller:

Have the timing chain and tensioner been replaced? aka "cold start rattle"
Has the high pressure fuel pump been replaced? aka "HPFP"
Have the valves ever had a carbon flush done? aka "seafoam treatment"

A "no" to any of the above means you definitely want the MINI to still be under warranty. These are not deal-breakers, per se, as some MINIs have reported never having issues with these items. Better safe than sorry.

You can learn more by doing a NAM forum search on any of the "aka" terms above. Good luck!

 

You'll probably have the "drivers window dipper issue" if they don't go to the dealer. Basically the driver's window might not move up the little bit or bounce up and down. Nothing a SW flash from the dealer can't fix.

The engine has a TSB out for "cold start rattle" where they replace the chain tensioner and sometimes remove carbon buildup. Both are covered by warranty. Look for "Seafoam R56" on here to make a call on whether or not you think that is worth it.

Other than that i don't know of any issues due to "aluminum heads". Sounds like FUD from someone who doesn't care for imported cars but that is just a knee-jerk reaction.

The auto tranny is pretty solid. I don't think that you'll have issues there.

Check the tires. Most likely you'll need to replace them if they are the stock runflats. If you choose runflats they are NOT cheap. Factor that cost into the price of the car.

Im sure that someone else with more experience checking used MINIs will chime in and make my suggestions look silly.

Good luck!

 

Most people are more than happy with their R56's. If you read the "Problems" thread for the Gen 2 cars you will get a good overview of what can go wrong.

The issue that is the most troubling is the "cold start rattle". This is a nasty noise that often first occurs when starting the car after an extented time (when the engine is cold). The noise usually continues for 30 sec to 2 mins at the beginning of the problem.

The good news is that most people have gotten relief with the latest of the fixes from BMW and your car is still within the warrantee period.

If you are in doubt, take the car to a MINI shop and have it checked out before you buy.

These cars are a kick to drive.... ENJOY yours!

 

Hey guys,

Firstly thanks for the prompt replies! Really appreciate it ...
This really boosts my confidence in buying this car. This forum is great!!!

The car is still under warranty till June 2012 and only has 25,000 km on it. Nonetheless, I will def look at the issues you all mentioned above.

Here is what was done by the dealer just last week:

1.
T/S Body problems
Complaint: Right front window noisy in operation.
Correction: RE RE RF door panel found minor corrosion on regulator. Clean and lube regulator Check ok.

2.
Misc Steering
Complaint: Advise on creaking noise at low speeds when steering
Correction: Inspect for creak at low speeds. Trace to both front tie rod ends. Replace tie rod end. Check ok. Performed to check. Alignment report attached.

3.
Stab. Rubber Mounts
Complaint: Check noise from suspension.
Correction: Replace strut link due to excessive play (Prev diag)

 

I suspect the majority of MINIs have not had issues with those items.