I'm about 2 days away from ordering my MCS, this will be my first cooper ever as well as my first new car, the only down side is I have to wait about 4 months until it gets here. The one option that I am undecided on is the rain sensing wipers, I read in previous posts about the sensor being mounted to the windshield and thus complicating the issue of replacement windshields. Is there anything different about this option on the 07 verses earlier models? what do you do when the windshield gets a crack, do you have the mini dealership replace it? this seems like a cool option, as I do live in Portland OR and it has been known to rain here. just not sure if it is worth to potential problems that might arise.

 

the windscreen for rain sensing models is indeed different. There is a special "cut-out" for the rain sensing module.

Just get the one without the rain sensing function as this doesn't accurately control the wiper speed most of the time

 

I live in the rainy Pacific Northwest and had the rain sensor in my R53. I didn't specify the option on my R56. The rain sensor worked well in downpours but it drizzle here most of the time. Save your money and get some other option.

 

I've been in other BMW's and it seemed to work pretty well. I only got it 'cause it was part of a package. although I only wanted the bluetooth and center arm rest getting the rest of the stuff for $600 more seems like a good deal.

EDIT: Also I know that the early R53's had issues with windshields cracking but I didn't hear of that in a while and I never had to replace a windshield in any car. Probably shouldn't even consider the glass into the equation, if you like the auto wipers get 'em. In addition a lot of car insurance companies do offer no deductible glass insurance for very little.

 

Don't know much about windshield repairs with the sensor, but love the sensor here on the rainy Oregon coast. Works perfectly here. Our 07 Honda Accord V6 doesn't have this option, and I miss it when not driving the MINI. I would get the option again in a heartbeat...it's great!

John

 

I decided I will get it...thanks for the advice.