New to Mini, and looking at an 07 MCS that seems pretty well kitted for my needs. Asking price seems reasonable at $17,500. It has 36k miles and its at a Mini dealer but is not MiniNEXT certified. Should this worry me? As I understand it, the original warranty will cover another year / 14k miles. Is there any benefit to purchasing from a Mini dealer if the car is not a MiniNEXT?

Is there anything specific I should be looking for in this model year. It does have a sunroof, and I love it but Im a little worried having read a few posts on here about them. Any way to tell if this one leaks? I've dealt with an Audi with a posessed sunroof for 5 years but at least it didn't leak. Thanks

 

I have had an 07 MCS since new. Here are the issues I have had (all covered by warranty):
Water pump (on third)
Cold start issue (new tensioner)
Hood scoop warped (replaced)
No problems so far with sunroof.
Recommend replacing runflats with regular tires.
Also, consider buying extended warranty - it's a very complex car, with complex (read expensive) repairs...
However, it's a great drive, nothing else like it on the market. I call it a "practical, affordable Porsche". But that's just me.
Good Luck

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ms-issues-188/

Leaking sunroofs were much less common. Noise is very common. Non-operation in hot weather has been a problem. Many sunroofs are being replaced under warranty to correct these problems. The quality of the work (no damage or noise after working on roof) is totally dependent on the person doing the warranty work.

Ask the dealer how much more to add MINI NEXT certified to the car. 1 Year/ 14k miles left on the factory bumper-bumper warranty is good because it will cover everything. Extended warranties usually do not cover everything the factory bumper -bumper does, read the fine print.

The 36 month/ 36k factory paid service has expired for the car. Ask if the brake pads and rotors have been replaced and if the service is fully up to date. Get quotes for the next few service intervals not including oil changes. MINI sells extended service contracts that cover the next set of brakes and other routine service items. Not sure on price though.

Inspect tires because Runflats will cost about $900-$1000 and regular tires will cost about $600-$700.

Have someone check the body for paintwork no matter what the dealer tells you.

Great driving and really fun cars. You don't want to ruin the experience by paying for repairs if you do not have to.

Good Luck!