I just joined the forum and have been considering a mini as a second vehicle. I have read the thread about buying a mini for a 16 yr. I plan to use the car primarily as a weekend vehicle. I have read the stories about the maintenance and reliability issue. I have located a 05 with 94k,stick shift. Brakes, oil and window regulator were just replaced. The car fax shows some maintenance records but I have no idea about wheel bearings, water pump and belts. The body and interior are in excellent condition and I have driven the car and there do not appear to be any issues. Assuming the water pump has not been replaced, would it be a good idea to replace as soon as I buy the vehicle. The asking price is $7600.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

 

my origional waterpump has 200K miles on it. I have done almost all the normal mantinance issues you have seen. Just have not needed to replace waterpump yet. I should have when I replaced the supercharger. But I forgot to order one and I needed to drive to work the next day. I think the mini is a fine car. None of the maintinance has left me stranded. I am rebuilding my car now and hope to get another 200K out of it.

 

If the deal is right, go for it. My mini is a second car. When the weather turns, it gets parked. The advantage of having it as a second car is that you can take your time shopping for deals on those expensive parts.

 

I bought my mini as a second car too... then after realizing how fun it is to drive, the other car became the "second car." It sounds like you're going in with the right attitude about expecting some deferred maintenance on a car with 94K, so I say go for it and have some fun!

 

That price aint bad, you said its an asking price also, so see if you can beat them down some and make it a real sweet deal.

 

Mini will always look cool and fun to drive...go for it.

 

Thanks for everyone's response. The car is from a dealer. I have attempted to negotiate but they are holding firm on their price. I have been looking for several months and I have seen quite a few cars with body damage, high miles and worn interiors. This car looks and feels right.

If I buy the car, I will post pictures!

 

There's a lot of mini's out there. Get your deal!