Hey everyone,

I just picked up my wife's Mini yesterday. As a Jeep owner I know the in's and out's of the Jeep and the problems it has, but I'm clueless as to the Mini. Can anyone tell me what problems to expect. What I should improve on. What recalls are out there? etc...

The Mini is an `03, British racing green. Not an "S" type.

Thanks,
Brian

 

Problems to expect......your wife starts spending more time with the MINI than you . This is a common problem, don't take it personally.

 

Well...I get the Lab then!!! Actually the same thing happened to her when I got the jeep...

 

MiniJeep,

Aloha and welcome to NAM,
So you have an 03 MC. What transmission and what options? Any known problems and concerns so far just from your own driving?

5-speed: usually does well but a few have some problems.
CVT: Most do very well but some have stalling and hesitation issues.
Windshields- thin glass prone to cracks when hit by rocks
Windows- squeaky noise on rainy days, window won't roll up in some
Sunroof- sometimes rattles- see the dealership for the fix
Rear hatch lid- sometimes striker needs adjustment, latch can be replaced
Paint scratches/chips easily
Runflats have firm and sometimes harsh ride-change to non runflats
The MINI is too fun to drive, but it is no 4x4.

Did you know a MINI-Jeep is called a Moke? See the Classic MINI forum for more info.

 

I'll have to check the "Moke" out. We had to get a Mini with an Auto trans. as my wife refuses to learn to drive a stick.

 

Biggest problem to expect - you'll want one too!

 

I haven't even driven it yet!! But we live near Skyline Drive so hopefully I'll take it out later this week.

 

The "Moke" is different...As far as the options go we have the "premium package". I found out the seats are heated too. Got a little warm!!!I would have liked to have had a 5 speed. I can't stand auto trans.

 

The CVT is unlike any other automatic. You can move the gearshift lever from out of "D" to the right to get a 6-speed clutchless stick, complete with upshift and downshift capabilities, or, when you first move it to the right , you are in "S Drive" [SD]---a much heartier version of the "D" drive of CVT. In "SD", the engine does the shifting, but at higher revs...and is therefore a zesty change from the anemic "D".

I grew up on a stick shift, but wouldn't trade this CVT for anything. Not having to ride a clutch in stop and go traffic...AND getting the perks of a floorshift.... Can it get any better?

 

I never let my husband drive my MC, so he went out this summer and bought himself an MCS. Please check out the DC Metro MINIs forum for our driving event schedule.

 

Jen, love that graphic. Of course, it doesn't hurt that it looks like my new S convertbl!!

I put my Bimmer and Infiniti up for sale to drive the MINIs full time.
If that isn't a testament!