Looking for low mileage used MCS here in AZ. Seems that there are a number of Mini Buybacks from CA Lemon Law. Apparently come through SW Auction. Any experience or comments would be appreciated...

 

I have mixed feelings about these cars......

On the one hand, there's a reason the car got bought back, usually one fraught with frustration and tears on the part of the original owner, otherwise they would not have let go of their "baby".....

OTOH, I've seen a number of these from other mfrs I've worked for over the years that in the hands of a new owner performed flawlessly for the rest of their lives......

You will have a branded title, which will always affect the value of the car, and some dealers will not trade for it - something to think about in the future. Yes, it's cheaper to buy now, but it will also not bring as much money as a non-branded equal car down the road.

If you can afford it, I'd buy the newest, nicest car you can......

If you were looking for a car to turn into a track car or heavily modify, this might be a good way to go......and save some up front cost.

 

One of the stories I hear here in AZ is that CA 'Lemon Law' is extremely liberal. Owners who 'got in over their heads' use the CA Lemon Law to get out of their financing problems.

At the same time Mini does have complete service records to determine the reason the vehicle qualified under the Lemon Law. I've had my share of great driving with BMW over the past 30 years and at age expect that the MCS I get to be a 'Keeper' and not to have to resell or trade it in. So if the price is right, it might be a good option?

 

If there's any lemon law return car I'd never touch, it would be a Mini!

Another thing to remember - isn't that label stuck with the car permanently, as in it's part of its DMV record? If so, you'll get hit HARD on resale value eventually, most likely effectively negating the up-front savings.

 

Thanks for your comment.

Took note of your MCS description with Michelin Pilot Exalto PE2's. Assume you must have replaced the factory run flats?? Do the Pilots provide better on road comfort? Are they on 16 or 17 inch wheels?