Oi fellow R53'ers. I'm sure a lot of people forgot about it or just plain didn't know about it like me... I bought my car accepting the rust on the hatch and under the taillights. I came across a random post here that said Mini extended the rust warranty to 12 years on 05/06 coopers. I figured it can't hurt to have Mini look at it so I made an appointment. Two hours later, I received a call that they're going to take my lowly R53 to a local Mini approved body shop to repair the taillight rust, the hatch rust, and a spot he found under the passenger door.

So just letting everyone know that, while YMMV, it's entirely possible that you're still covered and Mini will take care of you.

Pics of what they repaired:

 

They fixed mine once already. I'll be going back because some rust has started to develop once again under the door seals. I'm pretty certain mine used to sleep indoors. He sleeps outside now, so I may look at the other known areas too.

 

I recently purchased a used 2006 MCS. I live in the Chicago area also, what dealer did you go to? Do they give you any trouble if you purchased it used and not from them?

 

Mini of Chicago. I only purchased mine in February and they didn't give me any hassle at all. Took a few hours for them to look at it and then they said I'm approved.

 

Cool, thanks for the information.

 

 

Just an update. I took the car to Knauz Mini. They took pictures of it and a couple weeks later got approved for warranty work. Got a loaner as well since it will take about 1 month to repair. New doors, quarters, and hatch! Car was manufactured in March of 06 so I was cutting it close. Great to see a dealer and manufacturer stand behind their warranty though!

 

Wow, glad you were able to get a loaner for a few weeks !


I double checked the areas for rust on mine a few weeks ago and the only spots of rust were the usual area on the lower door sill.


I plan on wire bushing and painting myself when the weather gets warmer.

 

Take it to the dealer. They fixed a spot at the base of my door, as well. Worst thing they do is deny your claim.

 

Agreed, take to dealer while the weather is cold and it may still be under warranty. If warranty is expired or denied then try and fix yourself

Good luck