I have a 2013 Countryman S All4. I like it a lot. I'm looking at a car for my son. He loves Minis in general and the Paceman in particular. There's a used 2013 JCW Paceman at a dealer. It looks pretty good but has nearly 100K miles. I hope to see that the thermostat housing has been replaced, that the timing chain has been done, etc. But before I approach the dealer to ask for details, I'm here to ask for the wisdom of the forum. Any thoughts appreciated.

 

... And that the turbo has been replaced as well as seeing the service history on that car.

 

Thanks mikey_t. I spoke with a salesman this morning. Fortunately, the dealership selling the car also sold it originally and has serviced it regularly. All regular maintenance looks good. Front and rear rotors were done within the last 25K. The turbo was replaced last August and the clutch and flywheel were done more recently. Unfortunately, the timing chain has not been done. I've asked the salesman to find out what they will charge to do that.

 

I'd have been more inclined to settle on a price, then drop the "Ok, I'll buy it for that price if you do the timing chain service."

 

I'll give that a try but I don't think it will work -- they want $3500 for the timing chain job. Given that parts are available for less than $400, their price implies over 20 hours of labor even if their hourly rate is $150. Seems just a tad high.

Of course, I won't pay that. Instead, if I like the car when I drive it later today, I'll use the timing chain as a negotiating point, then buy the parts online and take it to an independent to have the work done.

 

Visited the dealer and drove the car today. It was amazing -- drove like a new car. I couldn't believe how taut and solid it was. I bought it and will take delivery on Saturday. There was no death rattle so the timing chain is OK for now. I'll have it replaced before long.

Will post in the photos thread after I improve on the dealer detailing.

 

Congrats