Originally Posted by sgscomps

These are not factory wheels, Cooper S's didn't come with 18" wheels, 17" max. When you install 18" wheels you need to install a steering stop so the tires don't rub.

Originally Posted by NolliMini

Thank you for mentioning to call Mini USA...as it turned out, the car has two item under the repair campaign: the turbo heat shield and the timing chain tensioner. The original dealer said if the timing chain is slack they would replace it. Of course, I have not mentioned this to the use car dealer.

So far, I took a 2003 Mini Cooper for a ride just to get an idea of the first generation feel. Then, I took the above Cooper S for a drive today again to compare. The 2003 Mini Cooper is going for $7900; however, the above Cooper S is a better deal since I am interested in a Cooper S.

What I have noticed in the Mini Cooper S, JCW 2005 - 2006 as mentioned here, is sellers still want pretty dollars...the closest one to me asking $13500.

I noticed some oil leak but could not get a good shot of it (see pic) to tell if it just a valve cover gasket leak. I had also taken a video shot of the engine for the sound on start up...sadly it did not record even though indication claimed it was happening...camera battery could have been low. I might need to see whether the dealer will let me jack the car up and place it on stand. So, I have not made an offer yet.

Originally Posted by NolliMini

The Carfax claimed it had eighteen (18) added history reports however, I wanted to get feedback from the forum first before I get the report.

Originally Posted by NolliMini

The good news...I walked away. The used car dealer wanted $10,000 bottom line so I said the bye bye. I really appreciated the advice I received here and will probably look later on a third generation Mini when it has proven itself.