I'll still looking for a Cooper and am seriously considering a 2006 S that has a slight pulse in the brake pedal with gentle pressure at low speed. I suspect a warped rotor, but am certainly no expert.

What do others think it is?

If I proceed toward buying it, I will get a dealer inspection. Assuming they confirm a warped rotor(s)...
Is turning the rotor(s) the most sensible fix?
Replacement or upgraded rotors?

I'm capable of wrenching myself, so I could bolt on new parts if is a good option.

Thx,
Jon

 

If it is the rotors, there are really too many variables to say, depending on the miles, they could be the originals, or someone could have just slapped a set of pads on without addressing the rotors, it's just to hard to tell.
A new set of 4 rotors should run you $250 +, depending on how far you want to go. (Plus pads)

 

If it does need front pads and rotors it woud be a good time to upgrade to the 2nd gen S calipers and rotors. They are essentially the same as the 1st gen JCW upgraded brakes, minus the red paint and decals. Used 2nd gen S calipers are usually around $100-$200 a pair and you would need new brake cables for about $45/pair. Pads and rotors would be needed with either and the difference in cost is not too much.

 

Something like that isn't a very difficult or expensive repair. Pads & rotors are pretty cheap. (Plus, you'd be getting known, brand new brakes when they're repaired.) But it is a good price negotiation point.

 

Buy it and worry about if it gets annoying. Negotiate it into the price or have the seller fix.

 

Yeah, I wanna say that my last brake job on the min cost me $400 with EBC red pads and OEM equivalent discs so if you can get him to knock at least $500 I'd call it fair. Might be able to get as much as $600 off if you mention labor costs.

you might be able to get the rotors turned, but if they're warped, they're probably either thinner than spec, or have been royally thrashed. Either way, I'd rather not have them on my car. I think most people with these cars replace the rotors with every pad change. Sometimes you get get 2 sets of pads per 1 set of rotors, but that's pushing it IMO.

 

If you're getting slight vibration under braking, and depending on the life left on your pads/rotors, you might be able to see if removing the uneven brake pad deposits on the rotors might help. Otherwise, negotiating about the replacement before you buy might help you with money towards a new set up. If that's the route you decide to go, and depending on what you want to put onto the MINI, we have some pretty awesome kits here that have pretty much all you'll need. We also have a great tech article that can help you with the replacement yourself since you are DIY savvy.