Ask the Car People.SM


Mini Cooper: BEWARE!!!! There aren't parts .. - READ ONLY

38 messages,  Last post on Dec 12, 2008 at 8:29 PM

You are in the Hatchbacks - Archived Discussions Forum.

This discussion is ARCHIVED. To reactivate the discussion, post a request in the Lost? Ask the Hatchbacks Host for directions! discussion.

What is this discussion about? MINI Cooper, Auto Repair, Convertible

Messages Page 4 of 4

#29 of 38 invisible bra by 71mini

Sep 06, 2007 (10:15 pm)

I bought one on ebay and it does not fit perfectly.
Asked the local detailers, they charge about 200-300 for the job. Decided not to go for it: 1. it doesn't look too good. 2. it won't last more than a year. probably cost less to repaint the hood after couple times.

#30 of 38 Re: invisible bra [71mini] by bodble2

Sep 07, 2007 (1:08 pm)

Replying to: 71mini (Sep 06, 2007 10:15 pm)
Hmm....we have not suffered any paint chip on our '05, but then we almost never drive it on the highway.
 
I didn't think you can eliminate the gap between the bonnet (hood) and the fender. That's always a problem with a clamshell style of hood. IMO, the '07 is even a worse problem because the hood edge follows the curve of the wheel well opening, so you see the gap along the whole edge. Almost looks like the hood is ajar!

#31 of 38 June 2008 Buyer by minisf

Jun 08, 2008 (2:03 pm)

Well, I thought I'd post here since there are some critical comments of the MINI and prospective purchasers might see them and assume the car is not any good.
 
I researched the heck out of the MINI before getting my used 2006 cabriolet [non-S] a few weeks ago. Mine has the five speed manual, cold weather package, leather interior, premium sound, silver interior package, lights package, and a host of other options.
 
Yes, avoid any model older than 2005, with the CVT [or automatic transmission.]
Based on all the negatives I saw, I decided to look for a 2005 or later, with a manual transmission.
 
As timing would have it, the 2008 Consumer Reports Annual Auto issue came out just before I bought and was conducting research. The MINI did quite well in the ratings. In fact, the MINI got red donuts which means above-average in terms of reliability.
 
I do recommend buying as late a model as you can afford and to get one with some manufacturer's warranty remaining [not those bogus extended warranties, but the MINI warranty.] Mine has two years and 27,000 miles left on the warranty so that is a comfort.
 
This last weekend I put the car through its paces and gave it a wash and wax. Also scrubbed the interior and conditioned it.
 
So far I have not found a thing wrong with it. So after 23,000 miles I can report the car appears problem free. It shifts perfect, all electronics work, the climate control works, the car runs straight, it does not rattle, etc.
 
Yes, there are some cars, no matter the brand, that will malfunction or that have their share of problems, but that exists in any car. I have seen sites badmouth Honda Accords, Toyota Camrys, and Mercedes Benz.
 
On my BMW 740i that I paid almost $80k for, a fuel leak developed in the engine compartment. Fuel was dripping on a hot exhaust manifold. It took two trips to the dealer to have it fixed under warranty. No, I did not think that BMWs are crap and that my experience meant BMWs should be avoided, even after my 325i needed a new radiator at a cost of $600.
 
And before my BMW I had a Mercedes SL. After it ran out of warranty, that car cost me about $2500 in repairs every 8 months or so. And before that I had a Mercedes sedan that blew a turbo and also needed a new transmission.
 
After my SL personally I did decide to never buy Mercedes again as I had the most trouble with that brand.
 
I mention all of the above to emphasize that some people posting their negative MINI experiences does not mean that the MINI is a lemon or flawed vehicle. Here in San Francisco I see a lot of MINIs on the road and not in the shop.

#32 of 38 Re: June 2008 Buyer [minisf] by xflover

Jul 04, 2008 (11:27 am)

Replying to: minisf (Jun 08, 2008 2:03 pm)
I have a 2003 Mini that is mint, I had more issues with my 06 civic then my current mini, I just ordered a 08 mini and I know that most of them have no major issues, its always a friend, or cousin....never first hand accounts....
 
I love my mini and cant wait till the next on is in port!

#33 of 38 Re: Mini Cooper: BEWARE!!!! There aren't parts .. [lilblue32] by coupah

Jul 22, 2008 (2:23 pm)

Replying to: lilblue32 (Apr 25, 2007 6:42 am)
Well nextime, roll the windows UP and CLOSE the roof!

#34 of 38 09 Mini purchase by cooperus2

Oct 15, 2008 (5:48 pm)

I'm getting ready to take delivery of my 09 Mini that I ordered back in August 08.
How reliable are these cars? I see a lot of negative and I don't want a car that ends up in the shop immediately after I own it. All Mini's can not be bad cars, tell me it's not so!

#35 of 38 Re: 09 Mini purchase [cooperus2] by scorpio9

Oct 15, 2008 (6:04 pm)

Replying to: cooperus2 (Oct 15, 2008 5:48 pm)
I have an 07 mini cooper S Convt. it took 3 months to get it. I special ordered everything in that car. Ordered it Feb 07 and picked it up at the dealership May 07. One year and 5 months later the car has 12,400 miles and to date, NO COMPLAINTS or problems whatsoever. NO WORRIES!! Enjoy it and have FUN!!

#36 of 38 Re: 09 Mini purchase [cooperus2] by carla6

Oct 16, 2008 (7:57 am)

Replying to: cooperus2 (Oct 15, 2008 5:48 pm)
When I first got my special ordered '07, I did have some initial issues with the electical system (warning lights randomly going and staying on) and I had to have a part replaced under the hood. It was very stressful and concerning, BUT after those 'glitches' got fixed (and it's been about a year), I have had no problems at all. It runs like a dream. I am crazy about the little car! When I was experiencing the problems with the electrical items, my mechanic told me that certain 'changes' that were made in the '07s had added to the challenge of figuring things out on the mechanics end, for what it's worth. I hope you have no issues and can get straight to the smooth driving....it is a FUN car to drive.

#37 of 38 Re: 09 Mini purchase [cooperus2] by flackscar

Dec 12, 2008 (8:29 pm)

Replying to: cooperus2 (Oct 15, 2008 5:48 pm)
Just wanted to chime in and give my experience. I have an 02 Mini which is my daily driver (both highway and city driving). I currently have 138k miles on it and the only repair (other than normal maintenance) needed to date is replacing the rear hubs. The left wheel bearing started making noise at about 100K miles. I had both the left and right replaced. Fairly inexpensive and quick repair. I know others with newer models and they have had little to no problems as well.
 
I smile everyday I climb in it! Enjoy!!!
 
P.S. I test drove an 09 last week... I'll order a new one as soon as I can bring myself to part with this one.

Messages Page 4 of 4

Advertisement

Browse by Category

Browse by Vehicle
   View All Vehicles

Browse by Board
Browse by Topic
View All Topics

Edmunds Community

Advertisement