I've had my 2013 'Justa Cooper since April and so far no major problems except the one-touch window close feature wouldnt always work. The dealer "re-initialized" the system and it was fine for a few months, but it started up again so I'm taking it in tomorrow. I've also had a couple of poorly fitting molding issues.
Other than that, it's been lots of fun to drive and I've been averaging over 40 MPG on a combination of mid-grade and regular (I alternate).

 

Bertie's windows lost their one touch up as well. I reinitialised them and now they're working again. The way to do it I've heard is to open the windows and hold the switch down for 10 sec, then close the windows and hold the switch up for 10 seconds.

 

I read about that somewhere on here as well, but I need to take it in anyway because of one more poorly fitting molding and a free car wash! My Justa is encrusted in road salt.

 

I have a '13 MCS and I'm loving it. I sold my 3-series to get it, as I was just wanting a little more fun drive around town. I have been pleased, and haven't had any issues.

The N18 engine has been good so far to me. I'm kind of a "preventative maintenance" type of guy though... I do my own oil changes at 5-7k miles, do all my own fluids and maintenance. I just feel more comfortable since I know EXACTLY what's happening to my car.

I'll be replacing my turbo lines BEFORE any of them go bad, and I will also be replacing my thermostat and water pump probably at like 75k miles since at 100k in any BMW they are like destined to go.

I clean out my engine bay when I wash my car (once a week in the spring/summer/fall) so I can see if there is any oil leaking from anywhere. The second I spot any (haven't on the MINI yet) I replace gaskets etc before things get out of hand.

Honestly doing the work yourself is much cheaper, even if it does take up a lot of time. I'm no mechanic so it kills a day or two over the weekend for me for big jobs (did on my BMW anyways) but I feel so much better knowing it was done the right way, with care.

 

Thank you, everyone! Extremely helpful comments. I really appreciate the unbiased feedback! We're officially on the prowl. I've already reached out to some MINI dealerships across the country to see who can locate one as close to our specifications as possible. It's nice to see some of them have really taken the challenge and are looking well outside their regions. Hopefully we'll get lucky. I'll keep everyone posted - especially when we get him/her home. Motor on!

 

If your down for a road trip check Mini of Loveland in CO. They have a decent selection of 2013 Justas and Cooper S. If they have something let me know I have a good repoir with the sales manager and can get you in touch with them.

Moltenmini
Ryan R