Hey there everyone,

I'm in the market to buy an R56 Mini. I'm going to go for an automatic transmission for this one, and I want an R56 because of the great aftermarket support for the little guys.

My main question, is there any particular model year to look for, or to look out for? I was thinking of going on the newer end, 2011-2013, with the intention of buying it a few years old, and keeping it for 7-10 years.

Please give me all the advice you guys can, and specific things I need to look out for.

Anything will help tremendously. Thank you!

Kindly,
Travis

 

I'm not an expert, but I think most people here will agree that the 2011+ models with the N18 (N16 for the base model) engine are much much more reliable than the N14/N12 engines. Timing chain tensioner, valve cover, and excessivbe oil coking on the intake valves are really common problems on the N14 and have been redesigned out of the N18. As far as aftermarket mods, I think (again, not an expert, maybe someone can correct me) the N14 was a bit easier to reprogram the ECU, but people are figuring out the N18 now. Most of the hardware like intake, intercooler, exhaust, etc. will be the same.

 

Thanks bcman!

What's funny is right after I posted this, I found another post by someone else that mentioned the 2011+ models with the newer engine being more reliable. So I definitely think you're on to something there.

I'm looking at a great deal on a 2013 JCW right now with low miles. I think I might just pull the trigger. It's practically new, a JCW which means it already has some power before modding, and it's in the more reliable group!

 

The N18's aren't as bad as the others, but they do have their quirks. Here and here are threads on NAM about the N18 engines. For added knowledge, here is a thread on NAM about the differences with the N14 and N18. Good luck with your purchase and if you have any questions along the way, be sure to ask!

 

I would say to avoid these:

2007 – 2010 R56 S model (N14 engine)
2009 – 2010 R57 S model convertible (N14 engine)
2008 – 2010 R55S Clubman S (N14 engine)
Also - the JCW used the N14 thru 2012

Based on my experience with the N14 engine...always have a few spare quarts of SYN 5W-30 on-hand due to the excessive oil consumption.

Good luck to you!

 

Is there a warranty on the 2013 JCW? How many miles are on it?

 

Thanks for all of your input guys/girls. After additional research I have gone with the 2013 JCW and am picking it up next week! Definitely thrilled and cannot wait!!

I plan on having this car for a long long time too. Very pumped.

 

Congratulations! Be sure to post up some pictures once you get your hands on it. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

 

Oh I definitely will! Also, what is it like modding a JCW? I'm going to do some exterior stuff first like blacking out the chrome, etc. But eventually I want to up the HP and torque significantly, and was thinking a Stage 3 kit or something.

Is it easy on a JCW? I've heard that JCW's are a little more locked up, but I'm not knowledgeable enough on the subject to know myself.

 

For a '13 JCW I would recommend finding a Manic Tune dealer. On here I would recommend MarioKart. From what I have seen he goes above and beyond, great customer service. He can also direct you to the mods you need to achieve the power goals you have in mind.

 

Awesome thank you!

 

A tune would be a good first step. Here is a thread on NAM with some good suggestions for upgrades. Also, check out this one here. And of course, parts here if needed. If you have any questions let me know.