Hi, im looking to purchase a 2008 (ish) clubman as my wife needs my car as we are expecting another baby.

I drive 24 miles round trip to work and back 4 days a week and my other driving would be pottering around town.

Which engine should I be looking at, is there anything fault wise I should check for and are they really as unreliable as I have been hearing?

 

If you're going to get an S model be aware of the problems with the N14 engine used in the MINI Clubman from 2008 - 2010.

Most of the bad press (about the MINI brand) is related to the N14 engine used in the Gen 2 MINI and the CVT in the Gen 1 MINI.

If you're unsure of the engine type use the VIN decoder: http://bimmer.work/

 

Martin; I'm in the middle of putting $6800 into a used engine plus installation after my timing chain went Kaput at 75,000 miles and grenaded the engine. I think there's a fix (Not sure however) so be very cautious at what you look at. Other than the engine, we love the car.

 

Have you looked in to the recalls? if not there is a class action law suit

 

Chav; Yep, I've already got the paperwork filled out to turn in, but based on mileage and year I'll probably only get around $300.

 

If your looking at a 2007 or 2008 you need to confirm the timing chain and guides have been replaced. If you can not confirm, don't buy it.

 

Would advise against the S Model in those years. Even ones with fixed chains and tensioners sometimes have the same problem happen again. Go with the Cooper base model if that's the range of years you are considering. Great torque, more reliable, and will fit your driving needs.

Plenty of upgrades, maintenance and repair tips here:

http://new.minimania.com/June_is_Per..._Upgrade_Event

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

They are. Just get the non-S model and you'll be fine. It's the 2007-2010 turbo engines that are cursed.