I'm seriously eyeing an 06 Cooper S (very excitedly, I may add!). I'm about to get the CarFax, but I figured I'd ask here if anyone can run a VIN for me.

If the VIN checks out without any red flags, I'd go to get it checked out by a mechanic. I've heard to specifically ask them to look at the following: swaybar bushings, mushrooming on the strut towers, and leaking around the oil pan gasket. I may not have the luxury of being able to take it to a BMW or Mini specialist, so as much detail as I can ask them to look into, the better!

If this type of thread isn't allowed, mods, feel free to delete it!


Thanks!!!

 

Anyone can decode a VIN here. It lists the factory options and build date, etc.

http://www.bmwarchive.org/vin/bmw-vin-decoder.html

 

I know what the specs on the car are, I'm just looking for someone who may be able to run it to see it's history before I just do it myself.

 

Here is a great buyers guide. Take a look and hope it helps. Check for the common things like all bushings and look for any oil leaks. Mushrooming is a good thing to look for. Also, check the thermostat for leaks and check the condition of the motor mounts. Good luck!

 

Great info, thanks!!

 

You're very welcome. Glad I could help.

 

I got a PPI done and requested the mechanic look at those things you mentioned. I posted this thread with some info on what he found: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ml#post4113648

What do you think?

 

I'd look into the brake being hung up and see what that'll cost for the repairs. Did you buy chance get a list of the cost for the repairs? A lot of people in the thread have given you some pretty good advice about the issues that were found. I'd just see how much it looks like the repairs will cost and go from there to see if it'll be worth it to you. Otherwise, that's not a bad list for what was found wrong with the car.

 

Well it doesn't matter at this point, just bought the car tonight!

https://i.gyazo.com/899676f15d2fde5b...3533e110e0.png
Debating whether or not I want to keep the vinyl wrap on those panels (it's on both sides).

 

Congrats -- nice looking MINI Personally, I like the A-panel graphics (or in this case solid color vinyl), but it's your car and to each their own.

Happy Motoring!

 

Congratulations! I like the look of the vinyl on the panels. Think it ties into the wheel arches pretty well.

 

Congrats on the MINI. Personally, I think you got the best MINI of the bunch (JCW) excluded. The 06-R53 is great, I love mine, after doing the research ,I found that this model is stellar .
And you already have great mods, to boot. The w-11 engine is the best of the bunch, and the 06-R53 supercharger is the best stock unit also. Enjoy.