Hi all,

First post and soon possibly a first time MCS owner. I'm in a tough spot. I need a car ASAP and unfortunately that takes a personally designed MCS out of the equation. I just can't wait. I have located a Mini at a local dealership that I like. It's the package I was going to pick but the color combo is just OK.

Anyway, I then find a perfect used MCS. Exactly the way I want it. '08 with under 7000 miles on it and it would save me roughly $5-6000 in cost. It also has the suspension modified which I would have done anyway with the parts I would have used. It also has exterior mods that I would have done. More money saved! Now I can get a DOS cai perhaps have the ecu done.

Then I come here and start reading about "sea foam", "carbon build up", "cold start rattles" and on and on. Also read about dealerships avoiding fixes or admitting issues exist.

So my real concern is I buy the used ride, it has one of these issues and I get denied warranty work due to the modifications. Even though current mods have nothing to do with it.


What do you all think?
and as a side note I know I get 2y 44k miles left on warranty but does buying used exclude me from the 3y 36k free scheduled maintenance program?

 

You still get the 3y 36k free maintenance, at least I did.

Why not buy the used MCS that is exactly what you are looking for. Take it to an non MINI dealer mechanic and get a pre purchase inspection done. Mention to him or her that MINIs have carbon problems and have them take a look. With only 7k on the clock I would not be too worried. Be sure to check if it had the "cold start rattles" fix. MINI has released a new version of the part that was the culprit of the sounds and will replace under warranty.

Goodluck and I promise you will love your MINI whichever one you choose to go with!!!!

 

Only 7000 miles - and exactly the way you want it - and you want it now...
BUY IT!

And quit reading this forum about all the problems a very few people have.

 

Agreed. Go with the used MCS which you want.

 

Buy it!
I understand that the carbon build up problem can be avoided by driving it hard, from time to time. Run it up to the red line sometimes, blow the carbon outa it, give it an Italian tune up, have fun!

Dave

 

You like it? Buy it. There should not be a question.

 

Buy the used one you really want. You're saving enough money to pay for extended maintenance and warranties. Good luck!

 

Used one. the maintainance package is pretty much crap anyway.

The warranty remaining will benefit you waaaaaaaaaaaay more

 

We bought used and couldn't be happier.

 

Hey thanks everyone! I think I'll try and get it pre-inspected. Only issue is distance between the vehicle and the closest mini expert is about 30 minutes. I'll see what they say. If not, I'll wing it.

Thanks for making the decision easier.

 

sounds unanimous - GO FOR IT!