Hello everyone! I am in the hunt for a 2009 Yellow Convertible S for the wife.

after doing some reading I'm curious on this Carbon build up issue. what do i look for and how do you fix it/keep it from happening?

I hear the automatics can be a pain and bust, this true? (I'm a manual guy my self)

any pointers on what to look out for while hunting for one?


thank you so much!

 

Welcome,
The carbon buildup is something that can happen. It is easily remedied but a bit costly.
As the the trans, the problems were with the 1st gen CVT transmissions. The 09s shoulder net be a problem.
Good luck in your search. Minis are great fun and great on fuel too.

 

It doesn't happen to all Mini's. If the car had all its scheduled maintence then that would help.

 

Good luck with your search. I had a red 2010 S Convertible w/ automatic for 3+ years until I traded it for my 2014 Roadster. Lots of very enjoyable top down riding, but I stored it for about 4 months over the winter.

You might want to see if you can find a 2010 model that may still be under the 4 yr/48K mile warranty. If not, have it checked out by a competent mechanic. In 32K miles, I had no major problems at all. My wife preferred the automatic, I enjoyed it as well and you can use the paddles/sport shifter if you want.

One thing to check is the sides of the convertible top (when it is up) to be sure it is securely attached to the side behind the back side windows. The 2009-11 models had a plastic sewn-in tab to attach the top to the sides that often broke off, and the top side would flop around and allow rain in. Mine broke and was replaced under warranty, MINI has a reinforcing piece to fix it. My hood scoop center had a melt /dip from the turbo heat; well known problem, cosmetic, but will be replaced under warranty.

Good luck...keep us posted when you get your new MINI.