Greetings MINI folk. Ever since I had to sell my new '13 Justa only a couple of years after purchase, I've been wanting to get back into this world.

These days I'm looking at used S models, and have grown quite attached to a 2011 S for sale. Problem is, I'm not sure what repairs are normal due to the early N18s vs. abnormal at this mileage (50k). I was hoping you all could help.

The items repaired/replaced are:

Oil solenoid under warranty. It leaked. Replaced by new design
High pressure fuel pump. Replaced under special Mini program
Timing chain tensioner seal replacement under warranty
Leak repaired. Axillary coolant temp sensor

That's how they were described to me by the seller/original owner.

Thank you for anyone willing to chime in, I needed a second opinion.

 

Welcome to NAM!

First two are common. 2nd two are not, but are pretty minor. Get the service records, and if you are at all nervous, find a MINI specialty shop to do a pre-purchase inspection.

 

It's due for brakes.

 

OP is also due for new battery, I didn't see it in his list..

 

The owner was just listing things he was considering beyond the standard, so there's a chance it has been done just not mentioned.

When I go take it for a spin I'll make sure to look into the brakes/battery, as all work was done at the local Mini dealer with receipts so if they were taken care of they'd be in there.

Either way, good to know in the event I'll need to do it myself.

Thanks all!

 

If its a N18, probably fine. If its a N14, id probably avoid the thing. I thought N18s came in mid-2012?

 

earlier for the 'S' .. JCW changed to N18 mid 2012.


I would schedule a leak down/compression test. If the previous owner/s only drove around town and were scared of the tachometer.. its likely got a thick plastering of carbon on the valves. Taking a look at the spark plugs will give you an idea of what youre dealing with as far a carbon coke too (unless they were changed very recently).

 

2011 S is most likely N18. See the FAQ and run the VIN through the VIN decoder, or see realoem.com.