Hi,
I have been reading and learning about the Cooper S as I am in the market for one. Its really a wedding anniversary/birthday gift for my wife, however i think i will equally enjoy the car just as much.

Anyhow, I am considering a 2003 but not certain what to look for when I test drive it. I read about many creaks and noises from the interior plastic.

Are there things I should pay close attention to (in low and higher speeds)?

I appreciate any advice here.

Much obliged,
AC

 

Well, there arent many things that I can think of. Make sure that, if existant, the sunroof works smoothly. Also, that all windown open and close with no problems. If it is a manual, watchout for any obvious noises and/or smells. Also, make sure that the clutch is smooth. Check the leather for cracks, and that all stock equiptment is included, or that they have a reason for it not being there. One more, check for water in the lights, (flood) and check if it pulls to one side at high speeds. If it does, it could just be tire pressure, but, at worst, previously wrecked.

Hope that helps.

 

i recommend you read the Beneath the bonnet forum.

 

cool thanks... I just had a look at the actual car tonight. Jetted over to the car lot after a client call... they were closing up in 20 minutes so i basically had about 12 minutes to look over the car at dusk. Had to chat up the sales person for 8 minutes to have him let me in the lot.

The website lists the car in PRISTINE condition however, i found numerous things that kinda bothered me.

1. Crack on Windshield, Crack seems to stem from the top center and creeps around the rear view mirror. [Repairable but normally how much for a Factory replacement?]
2. In bumper fog lamps are damaged, Passenger side fog doesnt light up, Driver side fog cracked cover and lense but lights up.
3. Fogs attached to grills are damaged. Neither lit up for me because I couldnt find the switch for it inside the car [Can someone advise me here? :( ] Also the reason why the black MINI fog covers were on because the passenger lense was also cracked.
4. Uneven tire tread. Looks like driver side tire was replaced some time. At 50% tread. Other 3 tires are less than 50% tread.
5. Drivers Seat is concave. [looks like the previous owner was 500lbs. Leather seat stretched to a deep embarassing pit.]
6. Many fine scratches on roof. Probably more noticible because it was near dusk where light was reflecting on it and also because its a black roof.
7. Exhaust rattles when throttle is lightly pressed [probably a bracket that needs rewelding/replacement].
8. Bonnet stripe has deep scratch. [yes i am fussy]
9. Judging by all these things, it looks like the car has been driven hard. In addition, Mileage is 55600, computer reports 18mpg (equal to my E46M3)

Other things to consider tomorrow:
Brakes Questionable (too late to test drive)
Throttle for engine smoothness and powerband
Clutch - assess flywheel bite point

I have a feeling if i go ahead with this car, it will need:
4 new tires - $500-$600?
New fogs (both in bumper and on grill) $400?
New windshield $200?
Brakes and rotors? $450?

Am i starting to talk myself out of buying or is this normal for the used mini market?

 

As to your issues

1. Common problem, just search the threads. No biggie
2. Have them fix it
3. Switch should be on left of driver side down low. Again have them fix it. BTW they are not fogs if on the grille, most likely OEM driving lights
4. MINIs can eat tires, again no biggie
5. LOL
6. Black is the worse color to show dirt or swirls. Have them polish them out before delivery
7. that nothing
8. Easy to fix, have them put on new stripes. not expensive at all
9. A lot of miles for 3 year old car.

In general, everything you have mentioned is cosmetic, nothing to be really concerned about

4 new tires - $500-$600?

Regular tires, probably cheaper. Under $400. RFs ... more like $800+

New fogs (both in bumper and on grill) $400?

Depends upon if you do it or the dealer. If they dealer, expect more

New windshield $200?

dunno

Brakes and rotors? $450?

Plus labor
Normal? IMO, for a car with near 60K miles, most everything is cosmetic or normal maintenaince. Lights, however, are not normal. Wonder why they are damaged?

 

Pass on that one - there are plenty out there. You will find the right one - the shopping is part of the fun

What you are looking for is a balance of wear on a used car. Make sure that you know the history and can make a reasonable guess as to the use of the car/level of maintenance (was it loved?) If it's a auction car, I might pass unless it's in a really good condition. A lease car is OK, but only if the person actually took it in for the free maintenance. Look for little touches like the union jack tire stem caps or country badges on the grille. Those mean (along with overall good condition) that the previous owner liked the car and liked taking care of it.

I looked at a lot of cars (Coopers and S) and saw lots of them in so/so condition. The used car dealers don't like to bargain on MINIs as they see them as a profit cow. You have every right to walk if you detect ANY flaw, 'cause you will find a few more when you get it home.

I bought the first one that I found that met these requirements (although it's not perfect, the price was outstanding + highway mileage + newer tires+ loaded, etc.) I'm very happy with my purchase and getting 25+ MPG on my 7 mile city driving commute...

I'd say pass on this example and keep on looking. Good luck

 

i also recommed you find a better one. cause mine's an 03... and there is
ABSOLUTELY NOTHING wrong with my car. sure i got some minor wear
on the interior and the usual front end, but nothing dramatic or visible
like that.

do you have a carmax near you? that might be a better place to shop for
used cars.

 

i bought a '03 after much shopping around, internet searching, dealer visiting, etc. I found a '03 MCS with 21,000 miles, for $16,999. Only problem with it a slight dent in rear quarter panel, est. $350 to repair.

So for basically $17,350 I got a near perfect condition MCS with only 21K.

so what Im sayin, shop around a bit more, youll find it

 

Thanks for the feedback fellas. The winning point was the factory 5 year/100,000 mile warranty on the car however, there's some controversy now as to whether MINI really even offers a 100,000 warranty.

I'll keep my eyes peeled. thx!

 

theres no 100,000 mile warranty, its a 4yr, 50,000 mile warranty