Figured I would create a build/maintenance thread for my newly acquired Mini back in December 2013. I originally purchased this car to commute to and from work (55 miles each way) and realized that I am not one to keep any of my cars stock. I have some parts on their way so I wanted to get my first post up before more mods arrive.
My weekend drive is a 2006 E60 M5 and was not cutting it on gas for the commute. I have owned 2 e46 M3's and sticking with the BMW family, the Mini was an easy choice for a daily.

Stats:
2002 Mini Cooper S (R53)
Mileage at purchase: 98,800 - Current: 101,400
Color: Chili Red

Relatively good shape for the mileage when I picked her up with regular bumps and bruises for being 12 years old. Once again I planned on this being strictly a beater.

Few things that needed to be addressed :
-O2 sensor was throwing a code so I picked up a used sensor from a member on here and that fixed the light immediately and passed NJ emissions.

-Loud whine from PS Pump. Ended up lasting till the beginning of January before it completely failed. Ordered a new pump from Carsteering.com for about 315.00 and 100.00 core charge. Utilizing the DIY on Billswebspace I was able to complete this job on a Saturday fairly easily with only a few snags.

-The well known "tri-fecta" of lights (ABS, Branke, and DSC) - diagnosed as a bad wheel sensor.
-Spark Plug replacement

Mods on order:
Recently picked up a used set of H&R coilovers from a fellow member here and expect to receive them this Friday. (Will post pics when I get to the install, we are getting killed in NJ with snow)

Wheel Speed Sensor - Plan on changing this out during the coil over install

New Serpentine Belt - Eventually want to get to a 15% reduction pulley but since the belt is squealing it felt as some insurance to hold me over

I also have hit a few potholes on this commute and slightly bent my front right rim causing a slow but TPMS noticeable leak; I am planning on holding out through the winter and buying myself a new set of rims altogether.

Attached are pics. Open for comments suggestions etc.

http://minicooper02chilired.imgur.com/all/

 

good deal! you can use the img code to post the actual img in the thread itself. thread title reminded me of my own lol

 

I am challenged when it comes to uploading the pics in the message directly, cant figure it out for the life of me.

 

says your images are private for starters - basically u just take the link of the picture, i.e., the actual web address, and through the img codes around it

 

I think I got it; let me know if they are showing up.
Thanks

 

yes indeed. great cars. GL with your build

 

Some delieveries last night. Hopefully weather is decent this weekend but looks like 6-10 more inches of snow here in NJ

Got the H&R coilovers, serpentine belt and belt tool


As well as a replacement glove box since mine broke and wouldn't close

 

Looks like your well on your way!