Hey guys new guy checking in with probably a fairly common question. I didn't really see a thread that covered all general things to look out for in purchasing a Mini and was hoping I could get a fairly good list setup. Heres my background story. I'm 19 and am coming from the VAG world. Ive owned a 2000 A4 1.8T, was a sweet first car. Then went to an 04 Audi S4 V8 and now I'm on my second 04 S4 pushing close to 400HP to the crank. I love Audi and VW and will for the rest of my life but want a change, and possibly something with lower miles and a car that's more practical and reliable. I've always loved MINI's ever since I first drove an S back in my High school days. So now I'm back at looking into one. I think I've decided on going with a newer MINI with the turbo 4 banger over the S/C. Opinions? Also I'm looking at a manual for sure and most likely a Clubman. Ill have around $17k to spend and want to make sure I get my facts down about these cars. Iv'e come from a car world where problems are life so throw anything you got at me!

Thanks in advance!


Heres my current.

 

A 2008 will be the first year for the clubman. $17k is not going to get you a low mileage unit. Look around but you will be a hair closer to $20k by the time you get one in good condition with fewer miles...possibly even more expensive depending on your area of the country.

 

Well I'm flexible around a price but around $17k is what my goal is. I see many with between 40-60k miles going for about 17 so I could probably find one for a good price. But my initial question is what problems should I look out for?

 

I would take alook at the "Clubman" section since the owners there will have experience about the model.

Also, I think close to $20K for a well optioned Clubman fir the 1st year is about right.

Otherwise the powertrain is the same in the hardtop R56.
Common problems (on the 'S'-model) are failing high pressure fuel pumps [HPFP], and timing chain tensioners [due to low oil operation]

Premature Clutch failure

Carbon buildup-common problem with most direct injection systems on all vehicles.

Waterpump ans T-State leaks - Just like VW/Audi

Window Switches

Rear Door electric relase glitches.

Make sure the water-pump recall has been done-fire issue.

Early Turbo's may not have the heart sheild for the ouil lines and the hood scoop melts.



Good luck

 

We're anything of those things covered under MINI/BMW? I might raise my price alittle to ensure better quality etc. I know to the cold start up rattle is a very good indication of trimming chain. These cars run synthetic I assume. Especially with the turbo. Hmm I'll have to do more digging. So far this is a great help thanks!

 

The HPFP is extended out to 100k miles the timing chain is usually fixed if under the 50k mile warranty and it out of spec (too much slack).

Clutch could be replaced under warranty and possibly under extended maintenance.

The tiny $1 looking heat shield for the oil line to the turbo was a 2010 thing I think, so no need to get a car with one...if it bothers you go to the dealer and buy one.