As an r53 owner, I wanted to ask the 2012 / 2013 R56 owners if they think theirs is the best Mini S as far as being trouble free ?

I know Mini really messed up the 2007 to the 2011 models as far as carbon build up problems.

It may be too early to comment but I'd like to hear from you all . . .

MiniKar

 

2011 -2013 are the same for MCS. They all have the newer revised N18 engine that should not have the issues the N14 from 2007-2010 have.

I wouldn't say the best but I would say updated for issues.

 

In all honesty...all gen2 MINI's are kinda trouble prone...the N18 motor is really MOSTLY a N14...with VANOS....
When I touch and feel them, they seem to be made more cheaply, more disposable than a GEN1....kinda made "good enough" by the engineers...like the wheel well liners...kinda a recycled plastic carpet stuff...or the plastic at the base of the windshield... looks to be from a salad-Bar...
My suggestion...if you are looking for a NEWER mini....you might want to wait till the gen3 cars....at least that WILL BE a BMW motor......
If the motor runs well, I can forgive many sins...but the number of Gen2 MINI's that get new engines is IMO insane!!
I was having my wifes non-mini worked on last week in a shop that does MINI work...a small 3 lift shop...they had 2 gen2 MINI's in the shop for MAJOR engine work...most likely motors, and have done enough, they are "routine". A far cry from the older Gen1 cars where engine swaps were and still are pretty rare, especially when they were only 4 years old or so....

 

I think you mean 2011-2013. There is no carbon buildup issue on mine. I had mine checked at 36-38K miles.

 

The major problems with the N14 engine seem to be 1) timing chain tensioner, 2) carbon build up, 3) vacuum pump seize. So far those don't seem to be problems on the N18 which I am happy to have. The one advantage the N14 has is the ability to tune it from the OBD port which I envy.

So far my 2012 MCS has been trouble free for 8000 miles / 11 months, except for replacing the temp sensor under warranty. So I would say the answer to your question is yes - but I'm a bit biased, I admit.

 

No trouble at 23k.

 

You already have the best Mini, R53.. If yours is worn out, find another low mileage 05 or 06. You'll save some money and have a better car. Sorry 2nd gen owners.

 

I don't take it as a shot towards us 2nd gen owners, IMO, I don't like any of the first gens besides the 06' GP. Everyone has their opinions on what they like.

 

Apples to oranges, we all have the best car! Haha