I am looking at purchasing a higher mileage R53 (2002) and was just wondering if there is anything specific I should be looking at. Im going to look at one in the next couple days.

I am a mechanic so I know what to look for, generally, but wanted to hear some advice from you guys regarding the R53.

Problem areas, common rust spots, odd issues or anything like that.

Thanks in advance, looking forward to buying my first mini.

 

Im a home mechanic and there is nothing I haven't been able to do. But at high milage there is alot that needs attention. Suspension Bushings, Oil leaks, oil pan, crank sensor o ring, Thermostat gasket leak, crank pulley, struts, supercharger, Timeing chain tensioner, and guides, fuel pump, Belt tesnioner, engine mounts. Most of my problems happened to me starting at 100K miles. But none happened that left me stranded and nothing I couldn't do after work or on the weekend. I must add that I love my R-53. It is a fun car and feel it has been reilable. I am at 200K miles and was in a wreck. There was no structural damage. Insurance Totaled it. I bought it back and am restoreing it myself because I know exactly what has been done and rather than start over with somebody elses car, I felt it was easier to repair the interior and exterior than start over repairing the mechanics. Not only that restoring my car is cheaper than a new one.

 

Thanks for the response. Yeah, I was figuring on most of that, hoping I can put most of it off for a bit or that the owner has been good with maintenance.

Sorry to hear about the wreck, glad it wasn't structural. Good luck on the restoration. Sometimes thats almost as much fun as driving theme.