I'm thinking about purchasing a 2005 R52 with 98,xxx miles on it. It's an automatic, which means it has the dreaded CVT. This is a huge worry for me. It doesn't help that 99.9% of the reviews or posts I see online are negative.

Does anyone have good things to say about their 2005 or R52 model? I'm looking for words of encouragement - hoping that the CVT issue isn't as big of a deal as the internet is making it out to be. If it is, do you guys think at 98,xxx miles without any issues, I'll be safe? I was hoping with the higher mileage that all the kinks have been sorted out. According to the Carfax, its had two owners and only three service records. What else should I be worried about with this year/mileage? How much will I be looking at for general maintenance every month?

Sorry for all the questions! This will be my first Mini (switching from a Jeep Wrangler).

 

I love my 2005, but it is a 6 speed.
Check the engine mount and bushings, probably need to replace them.
My monthly maintenance is just the cost of gas really.

 

In all honestly, I would say get the S if you want an suto.....
You have a $6500 time bomb waiting to happen....and it is WHEN...not IF....
Other than that, coopers are solid cars...heck the 5 speed 2005+ had a better stick than prior years reliability wise....

 

Thanks guys. I'll most likely pass on it. It's kind of heartbreaking because I don't see many convertibles for sale around here.

 

Your best bet is search autotrader within 300 miles. Take the drive it will be worth it.

 

Love my 05,but then it's a getrag 6speed.Bought it last year online. Love every minute driving it. Original owner spent i believe in the neighborhood of $9000 on JCW upgrades and i thank him every time i crack a gear or take 15mph marked turn at 40+. When i say bought it online i mean i had it shipped sight unseen from Dallas,Tx.to Erie,Pa. Hope to get it out of my garage soon, once i feel it is safe to take the snowblower off the tractor(we got another 3 inches just last tuesday).

 

Wait a minute... I bought an 05 MC convertible, automatic with 61k miles and love it. It is a little lurky at take off speed but otherwise it is great. I too was leary of the automatic, but I purchased it from a Mini dealer and got a 2 year, 40k warranty. The auto tranny does not require an oil change. It is stated to have a lifetime fluid in it, but I will likely change it soon. I love this car. It is so fun to drive!

 

chdrake2002, glad to hear you're not having CVT issues with your automatic! Your comment and the salesman that is now offering me a three-year warranty on the transmission and engine are persuading me to purchase the Mini. My only issue with that is, the dealership that has the Mini is two hours away from where I'm located.

 

Have it changed YESTERDAY!!
MINI changed their stance on the "lifetime fluid" YEARS AGO...guess the dealer did not get the MEMO....
Regular fluid changes on the CVT DOES seems to help it last a bit longer..helps the belt last a bit longer...one of the common (of several) failures in the CVT system.

 

My advice would be to get one with lower mileage that needs no repairs.

 

 

I could be mistaken, but the automatic trannys in the convertible are Aisin "regular" transmissions, and not CVT. If it has paddle shifters, it's not a CVT.