R50/53 05 r53
05 r53
Hey, I’m new to the Mini community and I was hoping you guys could help me out since I am also new to owning a 2005 Mini Cooper S. I really do love this car and I have wanted to work on it for a while but I really do not know where to start and to be honest I need to learn. I’m hoping someone can help me, to be honest I’m a little nervous because I've never used a forum page either. Thank you to anyone that can help me!!
Last edited by chandlrr.g; Jan 14, 2019 at 10:49 AM.
4th Gear
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 400
Likes: 19
From: Madison, WI
Welcome to NAM, Chandler!
I suppose the first question I should ask is how many miles are on your R53? At the minimum, I would think some general maintenance to start, such as spark plugs, fluids, check the brakes, etc. If it's mods you're looking for, I would suggest starting off slow with some simple mods like a different intake, perhaps a new exhaust, and if you're up to it, a smaller pulley. But since R53s are not known for their blistering speeds, suspension is definitely one area to tackle since corners is where these cars excel to the max. Some better wheels and tires (or just tires could be worth it, especially if your current ones are losing their tread) Blistering speeds in the bends is more fun than blistering speeds in a straight line.
Also, where are you located if you don't mind me asking? I'm sure there are some folks who live close to you, and could also provide some input on how to make your Mini even better.
Cheers!
I suppose the first question I should ask is how many miles are on your R53? At the minimum, I would think some general maintenance to start, such as spark plugs, fluids, check the brakes, etc. If it's mods you're looking for, I would suggest starting off slow with some simple mods like a different intake, perhaps a new exhaust, and if you're up to it, a smaller pulley. But since R53s are not known for their blistering speeds, suspension is definitely one area to tackle since corners is where these cars excel to the max. Some better wheels and tires (or just tires could be worth it, especially if your current ones are losing their tread) Blistering speeds in the bends is more fun than blistering speeds in a straight line.
Also, where are you located if you don't mind me asking? I'm sure there are some folks who live close to you, and could also provide some input on how to make your Mini even better.
Cheers!
Thank you for the welcoming, my mini has 115,852 miles on it so definitely need to get it serviced. And I am located in So Cal and I’ll definitely look into all of the things you have suggested. I was thinking a cold air intake and a performance exhaust. And what kind of suspension should I look into? Coilovers?
2nd Gear
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 132
Likes: 6
Welcome!
Don't be afraid to wrench on your Mini. There are a lot of resources and great vendors on NAM. At 115k you will want to replace the known weak points but your Mini has a lot of life left in it. Pick up a shop manual if you are serious about doing the work yourself. With a manual, the online articles from Pelican Parts and NAM you will be able to tackle almost any repair.
Don't be afraid to wrench on your Mini. There are a lot of resources and great vendors on NAM. At 115k you will want to replace the known weak points but your Mini has a lot of life left in it. Pick up a shop manual if you are serious about doing the work yourself. With a manual, the online articles from Pelican Parts and NAM you will be able to tackle almost any repair.
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