I purchased my Cooper S a year ago and on my way home from the dealer the engine started overheating, badly. I immediately pulled over and had it towed back to the dealer where they had to replace the infamous cracked thermostat housing, problem solved.

Two weeks ago my car started running extremely rough and I pulled over in the chevron parking lot. When I popped the hood I pulled the oil fill cap only to find white cream colored oil. DAMN!!! Head gasket.

So, I have been calling around and all the shops are wanting an average of $4000 to do a head gasket job. I used to be a mechanic for 10+ years and I never heard of a 4cyl that cost that much to do a head job.

I have been looking around and found a few other S model engines 07-09 that I can pick up for average $3000 with less mileage than I had on my car.

I also found a JCW complete for $3500 with only 35k miles on it.

I have a buddy who will charge me $300 to swap the engine out for me.

What do you guys think I should do? I am only going to have the car for another few more months because I am permanently in a wheelchair and it's too difficult to get in and out of the car.

Ultimately I just want to get the head gasket job done but cant afford what these idiots want to charge. I'm a Disabled Veteran and my only source of income is just that.

 

For starters, tell us where you are . . .

 

damn, sorry to hear about the dilemma DT (I feel weird addressing you as 'dirttrash').

My .02: If you're planning on getting rid of it in a couple months, I'd shop around for a cheaper head gasket fix and then just take care of the gasket. 4 grand seems way high. I'll call my garage tomorrow and ask them where they'd price that. I trust these guys with all of my cars and I know they have the best prices around. Executive Wholesale Tire in rockville, MD...in case anyone is in the local area.

Also, one service member to another, thanks for your service