Hello, been looking for a while for a automatic S vert in colors I like but after reading so many bad trans stories I am wondering do the auto trans ever get better / less troublesome? If so, what years?

What other components got better the newer the car?

Thanks

 

Since you're looking for a Cooper S model you need to be more concerned about the engine than the automatic transmission. The 2009 and 2010 model years have the (turbocharged) N14 engine which has lots of problems.

 

ouch...early years have temperamental trans...newer cars have poorly designed motors.

Is this due to BMW's control?

 

The only automatic transmission which had major problems was the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) used in 1st Gen Cooper models. The automatic transmission in all other 1st and 2nd Gen models is a 6-speed Aisin unit.

Have you considered getting a late (2008) model 1st Gen Cooper S Convertible?

 

so how long of a time span of build is that, 4 - 6 months? if so, why those, better trans but older motors?


I haven't ruled anything out thus I'm open to all as long as it has

auto trans
heated seats
non purple color

prefer pepper white or dark grey, or dark blue
like the Chrono package but don't see them alot.

 

1st Gen MCS Convertibles were built through July 2008. These have a supercharged Tritec (BMW/Chrysler joint venture) engine which was pretty bullet-proof. The 2nd Gen MCS Convertible models have turbocharged (BMW/Peugeot joint venture) engines. The problematic N14 engine used in the first two model years was replaced by the N18 engine in the 2011 model year. Both generations had automatic transmissions made by Aisin. The Chrono Package was only an option in the 1st Gen MINI.

The two generations are different "drives" ... "raw" for the 1st and "refined" for the 2nd. Drive both and see which you prefer.

I would not buy a 2nd Gen MINI with the N14 engine.

 

so does that mean;

things got better in 2011?

was the same trans installed for S models for the early good motors and 2009 & 2010 poor motors?

 

I have a JCW with the N14. No issues. It's all about maintenance.....and installing a catch can.

As a matter of fact, my previous Mini, a 2011 S with the N18, was a total lemon. With innumerable issues, which led to me looking for an N14...lol.

 

A catch can for;

water
oil
fluid
parts
money?