Hello all,

Potential newbie (to Mini's, that is) looking for some guru advice on hotspots to look for with a 2004 MC. (not an S)

I've had not so good luck on a used Audi a few years back, so I'm trying to be REALLY cautious about purchasing another used European car. Based on what I've read though, the '04's are a quite a bit more bug-free, and being that this isn't an "S", I figure that this should further reduce the potential for big problems. But, hey, what do I know?

There's a full list of maintenance that's been done on this car from the previous owner. She bought the car from the dealer and had it serviced there exclusively. She did crunch the front bumper a bit and had it repaired 100%, so hopefully it's not affected too much else. There was a record of the front wheel bearings also being replaced under warranty. Speaking of which, this car still has 12K and 1yr,3mos of warranty left.

I've searched through this forum and picked up bits and pieces of what I should be looking for, but is there a "buyer's checklist" anywhere? If not, would anyone please chime in to help me out?

Thanks again!

- Al

 

I don't have a list for you but I'm in a simular boat-I'm looking at a 05 MCS and would like to know what to check for as well.

 

OK, a little more info on the "crunch":

The Tech comments (at 26130 miles) assessing the initial damage were:
"Damage to Front Bumper Cover, Chin Spoiler, Radiator, Core Support, Ft. Bumper Beam, A/C Condenser, Lower Splash Pan, and 4-Wheel Alignment.

Later on, the records show at 38932 miles:
"Found that Front Bumper Covers were damaged. Also, Bumper, Core Support, and Right Front Frame Horn Damaged. Replaced Core Support and Bled Cooling System. Bumper cover and other pieces fixed by Crestone Collision Center"

My question is: has anyone else here suffered this similar fate, and if so, how extensive was the damage to the point where it affected future driveability?

Thanks,

- Al

 

If you are going to have driveability issues you would notice them now- a tweaked frame can lead to shuddering,vibration and tracking problems-it doesn't look like this happened and is pretty well documented. I would have a independent shop you trust look it over-if they have a frame aligner(usually in body shops) it can put on that and checked. I was a claims manager in a former (less enjoyable) life and the thing that would worry me in the list above is the AC condenser damage, was it replaced?

 

Thanks all. I walked away from that deal ... and into an '06 MC with 13 miles on it. Royal Grey/Royal Grey roof, Winter package, 16" wheels. Me? I got a big honkin' smile on my face now. No more worrying about someone else's mistakes or neglect - I get to baby my new MC the way I want to! Plus, I get a last year of Gen-1, and hopefully most of the bugs have been worked through!

- Al

 

Congratulations! Now you can enjoy motoring to the fullest without worrying about your decision!