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R56 What to look for when buying a used MINI?

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Old Dec 26, 2017 | 02:02 PM
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What to look for when buying a used MINI?

My wife and I are going to look at a 2010 MINI Cooper s with 75,000 miles and I was wondering if there are any common issues with this particular model and if we should look for anything other than the usual checking fluids, tire wear, body panel gap, etc
 
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Old Dec 26, 2017 | 04:56 PM
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That's the last year of the n14 engine. You'd be much better off getting a 2011 with the n18 engine. FAR FEWER reported problems. Do a search on 'n14', lots of threads..
 
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Old Dec 27, 2017 | 06:45 AM
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Thanks
 
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Old Dec 27, 2017 | 09:24 AM
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What about a 2012 Cooper s?
 
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Old Dec 27, 2017 | 09:34 AM
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That's what we have, '12 S. We love it, a few problems that were taken care of under warranty.
 
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Old Dec 27, 2017 | 09:39 AM
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The one I found has 41,000 miles and looks new inside and out.
 
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Old Dec 27, 2017 | 09:48 AM
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first thing to look for is the year, if it has a n14 walk away
 
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Old Dec 27, 2017 | 05:13 PM
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Originally Posted by zq8blazer
The one I found has 41,000 miles and looks new inside and out.
That's low miles for a 2012. If you are really interested in it, I would recommend a PPI (Prepurchase Inspection). Either a good mini independent or the dealer can do it for you. Considering how much these cars take to repair and maintain, would be a good idea..
 
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Old Dec 28, 2017 | 07:35 PM
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See the Gen2 FAQ for a summary of the common maintenance issues with the N14 engine.

The N18 (which I have) has a much better reliability record.
 
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