I bought a 2009 base Mini new. It now has 115K miles and the interior and body is in excellent condition. The thermostat recently blew and the alternator needs to be replaced/rebuilt. Should I keep this car or is it nearing the end of it's life cycle and will I just keep chasing expensive repairs.

 

Well... IMO, if you don't wrench yourself and take to shop for repairs, yes, you should sell and move on to more reliable cars, because the expenses will add up.

 

I kind of agree with above. I'd plan for thermostat-housing & water-pipe to be replaced every 50K-70K miles. I've replaced these plus alternator myself. These cars are expensive to maintain if you cannot or are not willing to DIY on many items. If you're an enthusiast who enjoys the car and does not mind the add'l maintenance these cars require 'keep it'. If you are not an enthusiast and want pure reliable transportation from A > B, 'sell it' and get a Honda or Toyota.

Good Luck

 

I have a 2009 MINI R57 w/ 86K miles and I accept that, like my 50 year old '72 MG Midget, NEITHER can ever be considered a four season, daily driver anymore. Both are great fun to drive occasionally and esp. to special events.

Its the ONLY reason I hang on to it.

My four season, rock solid reliable daily driver is a '14 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Cant beat Japanese practicality and good design. They understand that Americans in general will not do routine maintenance and expect toaster-like dependability.