Sooooo...here I am again. In December, I purchased a 2005 MCS that lasted 1 day before the head gasket blew. Needless to say, the vehicle was returned to the dealer. Yesterday, I took the plunge again and purchased a 2008 Clubman S with 60k on it. This has the 6 speed automatic triptronic. I am in the process of searching for any recalls (looks like the water pump was recalled on these models) but everything else looks pretty good. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

* Check timing chain tension
* Check fluid level / condition of auto tranny fluid (recommend replacing for long life use)
* Check turbocharger oil feed / return lines for gunk (assuming previous owner didn't change oil frequent enough)

- Erik

 

If you can, get the service records and see what service has been done, especially the big stuff noted above.

 

Thanks. I have the service records and it looks like it him the past 6 months the turbocharger had failed as the impeller bearing and the compressor wheel chewed up from contact with the housing. The turbo, oil feed and return hoses were all replaced. Cross your fingers that this is the worst that happens ;0)

 

That sounds like due to lack of frequent oil changes.
Keep up the oil changes (more often than what MINI recommends) and you shouldn't have that issue.

- Erik