So my '05 Mini Cooper Convertible is at 129k and I'm feeling like I'm at a crossroads. I'm trying to decide if it's time for a new car or if I should put money into my car.
Things that need fixing (that I know of):
Tie rods
A/C blows warm (fan not coming on)
passenger airbag mat/sensor thingy
radiator fan (no low speed)

I'm not car handy so everything would have to go to the shop for repair and getting all those things fixed is definitely gonna be expensive. I'm still on my original clutch and fear that could be next. I'm just so torn the list of repairs is kind of overwhelming to think about. It's paid off and not having a car payment is awesome but not having an A/C in northern va in the summer sucks.

I know no one can tell me what to do but I'd like some opinions on doing these repairs or throwing in the towel and buying a new car.

 

Not doing the maintenance on a semi-high maintenance car can get costly. So there is that to weigh in the decision. On a positive, having no car note is great and frees up the maintenance cost short term wise.
I tried to sell my wife's MINI recently with all the high maintenance items. She said that she loves that car more than any other car she has ever owned and would like to do whatever it takes to keep it. Long story short, I broke out the forum and the wrenches.

So the most important question is...how much are you attached to your MINI?

 

It depends on how good the rest of the car is. Are you going to have replace the top, fix top mechanisms, replace more suspension components, supercharger, PS pump, oil leaks, engine mounts, rad, struts, RUST etc. This could be a money pit fast and is a pretty high miles car.
I would only do these repairs if the rest of the car was REALLY nice. Otherwise, fix the tie rods and fans and cruise with the top down and wear suncreen. A/C and airbag aren't worth it.
Maybe you can get some value on a trade for a new Mini Cabrio?