I felt along side the edge of the rear hatch some nights ago and found one paritcular area with rough feeling (align with one of the two drain holes on the inner side). Upon close inspection, there were some imperfection, kind of looking like tiny particle trapped under the top coat. Has anyone had such finding? It's not rust, at least not yet. So I am not planning to complain soon. After hearing rust problem in other area of the car, I am in question of QA of MINI factory.

 

How old is your Mini? My 02 is still slick and shiny.

 

MINE DOES TOO! only on the passanger side though...mine has also had some bodywork that no one seems to know anything about (previous owner or dealership did it)

 

My is an 06 with only 2300 miles on. Bought it spanking new, so no previous owner. I actually also noticed there's a cut on the driver seat head rest few months after I took delivery, but it's so minor I didn't bother going back.