I have an '07 Mini gifted to me. I recently had oil leak issues. Fixed. Then timing chain. Found out not original motor. '11 Countryman motor. Had all this and more fixed by independent shop. I think I may need to get out of it completely. On fixed income and can't afford continued repairs. Friend thinks what else can go wrong anytime soon? Valves oil pump and vanos(?) Also repaired. What's the opinion of those who might really know? And will any recalls cover my expenses?
No turbo on this.

 

You have a car that is 14 years old, any car of this age is going to need some type of maintenance. Granted a civic or Corolla MIGHT just need tires and oil changed, but let’s face some facts. There is a lot of plastic and rubber under the hood, and 14 years of heat and depending where you are, extreme cold, can have its toll. Cars also are not made like they used to be. My 90 Sentra just needed oil changes and tires, it just ran and ran with no rust. If you are looking for a low maintenance car Minis aren’t one of them, they are little bmw’s and if you don’t keep up on the maintenance you pay for it later.

 

In my opinion you have to tell yourself if you enjoy driving the car. If you do enjoy it then the expense comes with it. If the expense is too much and not worth the enjoyment of driving then get rid of it. Myself I have put a lot of money in my car not necessarily for things that are broke or worn out but just for my own preferences. I will never get rid of mine I enjoy driving it too much.

 

tottally agree with him ^ .. bought a jcw March 2020 , 3 head gaskets 2 motors later and she’s running so strong and purring like a kitten , def worth every penny spent on it when it runs properly, if you love to wrench on your car , you can keep that mini alive for a long time