I just bought a 2005 Mini Cooper S that only had 12,500 miles. It was garage kept and basically looks brand new. I pulled the Carfax report and it looks like the oil changes have been done at the dealer. However, this was back on feb 2009 (6512 miles) so not sure if it's been done since It also looks like the thermostat was replaced on February 2013 ( 9804 miles) when a maintenance inspection was done. The only history reflected besides that was August 2006 it says vehicle serviced (1795 miles), June 2008. Electrical system and tire condition pressure checked ( 6100 miles). As it's obviously out of warranty etc any suggestions on things that might need to be done to it besides an up to date oil change and purchase of new tires? It still has the original 2005 ones with loads of tread but due to the heat here in New Mexico I guess should be replaced.

 

If the battery is original, might keep an eye on it or replace it for peace of mind. Also may want to check if the coolant was changed when the t stat was and also brake fluid change date. Congrats!

 

Cheers. The battery was replaced recently as the owner gave me the docs with the warranty. I'm not sure about the coolant as it just says maintenance check and thermostat replaced. The brake fluid it looks like was changed also on the maintenance record for Carfax. I had to reset the run flat system as the tires only had 10 in them. I topped the tires up and then this morning the All season traction control light came on with the run flat this morning. I'm going to check the tire pressure agin and see what's going on. Hopefully I won't have to replace a tire already or two !

 

Would change the coolant and the brake fluid (do every 2 years) and the oil and filter, air filter, cabin filter.
and wipers (unless they look like they were recently done), and you should be good to go for not very many bucks.
Also, look at the date code on the tires - if they're the original tires (10 years old), they should be replaced
based on their age regardless of the tread wear. People and manufacturers disagree on whether 6 or 8 or 10
years old is too old, but just about everyone agrees that 10 years is too old for safety's sake.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tirete....jsp?techid=11

 

Check with the dealer that all recalls has been done as needed. Motor on

 

Thanks. I've just had a look and the back are Dunlop dated 2008 and the front are Continental dated 2008. I guess I'll be getting the back ones replaced then next weekend. I will get the coolant, breakfluid etc done and have the wipers on order. I still have the ABS/run flat light w the all season traction control light so
Maybe it needs to be brought in to be looked at. I tried flipping the DSC/ASC switch etc and the lights go out but then come back on. No flashing just solid.

 

I would highly recommend searching for a quality, experienced, independent repair shop in your area and get an estimate for your work. It may save you a bundle. PS- I believe coolant is every four years as per the manufacturer.

 

Check brake fluid level for traction control light being on.

 

ABS/flat/DSC lights all on often means just a bad wheel sensor, although
sometimes it can be a bad steering wheel sensor.

 

Cheers. Much appreciated.