After having to sell my R56 six years ago, when my first born was on the horizon, l finally have another Mini - R53 - 2005

I have been looking for nearly five years, driven lots and seen lots of R53's in between, as well toyed with the idea of a Clubman.

I have some ideas in mind, but will be keeping it totally stock.

Currently has just over 73,000 miles on the odo, has an oil pan leak, and will need new rear brakes soon.

Will be looking for parts including a rear parcel shelf

 

Very nice - I've also been looking for awhile and just got an 06 R53.

 

hey guys - on this same topic - am also looking to get into a used mini. a convertible, manual for about $7000 or less. there are some out there at around 100k. any issues to look out for as they approach 100k miles?

 

Thanks Tigger, been tough trying to find a BRG without a sunroof, now to think of a name for her.

My kids suggestions have been Darth Mini so far

What colour did you get Tigger?

 

Hey Brad, l would highly recommend whenever you find one you like, to get it checked out by a independent BMW/Mini specialist.

I have spent a fair bit on various Mini's l have looked at, but each time the specialists saved me, from making a bad purchase.

http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

This video is also helpful:

 

Thank you!

 

Here's mine.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-2006-r53.html

I'm trying to think of a name for mine too - I'm thinking Black Knight (Night). The color is an interesting one - says it's Astro Metallic Black - and the hood scoop IS black - the hood looks almost a blueish color.

 

Nice one Tigger, l remember seeing your post, getting hard to find nice R53's which haven't been abused

 

Totally agree. I inquired about, looked at and drove quite a few over the last few years. Never found the one calling my name .. and if I thought I heard it, it was gone by the time I got back to it. I took my time with this one - and it still ended up with me.

 

The one l test drove before this, was only 100 miles from me, full history and great price.

Was making almost the death rattle noise when l drove it, and it broke down on me half way down the road on the test drive.

 

This one was about 80 miles from me. I test drove it on week 1 (along with research on the group that had it). Asked for vehicle history on week 2. Did more research on week 3 and told them I would like to take it in for PPI. 2 days after PPI, he followed me home.

 

Nice, the BRG one l purchased was from a dealer nr DC, l was actually talking to the previous owner about purchasing it from him directly, but he traded it in before l got a chance to see it.

I drove up from NC, saw it, drove it, got a PPI and took it home the same day.

After waiting the years for a BRG without a sunroof and less than 100k miles with a full history, l knew l had to get it, if the PPI checked out

Happy Motoring

 

Nice.



I was looking for a lower mileage too but I was ok with 100k. I understood the lower the miles, the higher the price.

 

Congrats, and if you need parts we are here. Nice to see a BRG r53 w/ factory rally lights , that was a big thing back in the day, i have 2005 MCC w/ 263K+ on it right now.

www.ecstuning.com

 

Nice ECS.

 

Thanks

 

Got the mini cleaned up over the weekend, changed the engine air filter and cabin air filter, and added the aftermarket chrome trim.

Quick photo opportunity with the lego classic mini.

 

Next thing on the list is to add Bluetooth via the soundbot sb360, and rear brakes (pads and rotors)

I'm going to go ahead and change the plugs and wires to.