Hope to buy in the next week and I have found a 2004 MCS at a non-Mini dealer a few hours away. Other than a vague carfax report is there a reliable way of checking service history on the car? It was purchased at auction and they do not have actual records. I'm trying to find out as much as possible before I commit to the trip. Anyone in the Chicago area interested in taking a look?

 

You can call 800-ASK-MINI or any Mini service department and they can tell you the basic info of the car; options, warenty that is came with, etc. You will be hard pressed to get a service department to give you any service records as they are not allowed. Maybe you can win someone over and get them to bend the rules, but not likely. When I talked to my service guy, who I already had built a relation with, about buying the used one I now have, he couldn't tell me anything. So, I just asked, "from what you are looking at on your computer, is there any reason you wouldn't buy this mini", he said "no".

Good luck!

 

Thanks for the advice. Just picked up one owner 2003 MCS today that been in the same county I live in since it was sold new. To my surprise the dealer gave me a detailed listing of everything that was done to the car which gave me some comfort buying it from a dealer.

 

Untrue. If you decide to purchase the car, and can provide a bill sale, driver's license, and proof of insurance, the MINI dealer is required by law to release all service/maintenance on the car. Of course by that point, the car is already yours.

 

it does not hurt to ask the MINI dealership near yr area to give ya serive history.

 

OK, MichiganMini, now you have to give us more details about your new toy other than "03 MCS"...... ????

 

My time with the Mini was short lived as my wife has commandeered the car. However its a 2003 MCS BRG/B with Premium, Sport and Cold Weather. All stock except for after market rims. Time for some upgrades! Has soon as the car stops long enough for a picture I'll post one. Looks like we're destined to be a two Mini family.

 

Great color choice!!