As my MINI is making it's way over the ocean, I am anticipating the pick up process at the dealer. A number of issues have been fairly frequently reported on NAM, so I am making a list of things to note. Please add things you feel are appropriate. But note, I am more concerned with things that have been a repeated concern, not every possible thing that could or has gone wrong. Nor am I looking for people to tell me I should have bought an R53. Okay, here's my list:

Sunroof rattle/squeak

Large/uneven bonnet gaps

Sealed storage compartment

Missing jack/tool kit (while there has been some discussion as to whether or not the MCS is supposed to come with it, my MA says it is.)

Xenon headlights aimed too low

 

Are the dealers telling the manufacturer that these problems are occuring? If so, perhaps the MINI has added specific QA checks to identify these discrepancies before they leave the factory.

 

I would hope so. But I plan to check mine for known issues before it leaves the dealer's lot.

 

You might find this checklist helpful:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ight=checklist

 

Yeah, good list, but it's more of a general list. Here, I'm looking for more specific issue things that would likely get overlooked (at least by me) unless I knew they were an issue.

 

It's a good checklist. I might add, bring someone else with you. Four eyes are better than two. I'm sure I will be in 7th heaven when I pick mine up and things may go unnoticed because I'll be too happy and anxious to get behind the wheel.

 

Good idea. My wife is coming with me. She finds my obsession amusing.

 

I have been through this in February, and am now on my second R56 (replacement) delivery.

Additional areas to review:

1). Paint & Finish - go over the entire exterior paint with your hand to identify the smoothness of the finish, there have apparently been damaged/repaired areas during transport that are not the same as manufactured quality.

2). Make sure that the rear headliner is firmly attached to the interior roof above the rear passenger windows.

3). In order to receive the Car jack and wrench, they should be identified as 5DD on the Vehicle Inquiry Report.

4). The cruise control does not inadvertently cut-off during normal operation.

5). The clear plastic paint-rub circles for the bonnet and hood are intact. They are located where the rubber "stand-offs" meet the painted bodywork, to eliminate paint damage.

You will LOVE the handling of the R56!

Good Motoring!

 

Honestly -- I did a visual inspection, had the one issue I found resolved (the **** on the radio/speedo was missing), then after paying, I drove off.

I didn't even do a test drive.

You buys your ticket, you takes your ride.

 

Thanks!

I was wondering where that went. I'm picking up my ride today and I'm going to need it!

...a general list that allready includes 3 out of the 4 things you suggested. ...and since I was modifying it along the way as additional suggestions popped up, I added #4, too!

 

Okay, maybe general wasn't the right word. How about all-inclusive?

 

I hope my wife comes with me. She, however, tends to find my obsession mildly irritating. If not her then one of my daughters. They can find fault with anything, so they may be more useful.