[jpsum]

I've tried the mini forum, but the site is pretty dead with very little activities.

Looking at this 2002 Mini as my second car. And I'm just wondering how much of a pain is it to maintain this car myself? Maintain wise, is the Mini more like a Honda Accord or is it like the E90 or somewhere in the middle? Hope you guys know what I mean. If not, I can explain further.

http://abw.autorevo.com/webtemplate.aspx?iid=2494052

[Ron1n]

I've talked to some BMW mechanics, and they say the engine bay is a BEAR to deal with because it's so small.

Unless you fall into the small category and have a lot of patience, it's probably not something you're going to want to deal with.

[ToadHollow]

Hit up DunkBMW ...... a forum member who is also a BMW & Mini mechanic.

[bluescoupe]

Have a Cooper S; I'm not a mechanic.
But my very competent mechanic finds this car very challenging.
Recently spent over $2K for a clutch job.
Dealer wanted nearly 50% more!

[blender]

I had a 2005 MCS until it got clobbered by a pickup truck. It was a fun little go-cart.

Basic items like fluids and brakes are not difficult. Major mechanical work is expensive partly because of the limited space under the hood. The clutches in 02-06 MINIs were under-engineered. The non-S MINI is simpler and should be slightly more reliable.
There is a really good self service Bentley guide. Parts are readily available but are more expensive than honda or toyota parts.

FYI the biggest and best MINI board is http://www.northamericanmotoring.com.

good luck.

RC.

[gonzo]

^ That site. Read or even become a member. I am sure you can find your info.

08' MCS here so little help on an 02'. Great urban run about vehicle.

They hold value. Is your budget under 10K?

I just noticed the ad car you have listed is auto. Merging onto the freeway could be dicey. S model with auto is a little different.

[gonzo]

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...standard=false This car has a slew of nice options.

http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.js...standard=false


Your ad car does not appear to be that great of a deal even with auto/leather.

I would focus on miles personally. Stick would be one less thing to worry about too.

[PLAY]

To be honest, I love the Mini Cooper. Can't wait to get another one.
Even the Non-S version is such a good driver...
I remember one guy on the forum here has a E92 M3 and he said that he liked to drive his Mini Cooper S JCW more.

[jpsum]

thanks for the info guys. So yea, my budget is under $10k as I want my monthly payment to be about $200. Looking for a stick with under 80k miles. I could always go with a Toyota which is the most logical choice for my needs, but I also want something more fun to drive.

I'll keep on looking!

[gonzo]

The first link I posted is a supercharged S with 55K miles and great options.

They ask for 10.9 meaning you could offer 9.5 drive out.

I bet they would take it!

Corolla over a Mini? NO.

[jpsum]

Originally Posted by gonzo

The first link I posted is a supercharged S with 55K miles and great options.

They ask for 10.9 meaning you could offer 9.5 drive out.

I bet they would take it!

Corolla over a Mini? NO.

Haha... I know.. but they are not in CT. Getting a car from out of state is a bit more work - CT inspection, shipping, etc. I want to get it from a dealer in CT so they can take care of everything for me.

[SteveMD]

I had an original 1275GT.

Yup I'm old.

[Tintinet]

I have a 2005 JCW S MT Mini. Love it to death! So much fun- feels much faster than my 335xi, and I find it much more fun to drive. I've had terrific luck with maintenance. No excessive charges (local BMW/MB/Mini mechanic shop) and no major failures at 53K miles.

[j-dogg]

Friend of mine owned both a base model Mini and now drives a Cooper S.

The newer S with the turbocharger has some balls, the older blower-powered S Coopers are a tad slower but can still scoot.

To say the engine bay is a pain to work on because it's too small is merely an understatement. I had always been under the impression that the old 3000gt VR-4 twin-turbos were a pain to work on but the Mini Coopers make those engine bays look like 57' Chevrolet Bel-Airs.

If you thought about the Toyota route, check out the Corolla XRS, 1.8L VVTi 6-speed manual and 8400 rpm redline.

[Kroon78]

I wanted to get a mini but my gf said its not a guys car. Can you believe the nerve of her, I almost had a heart attack. I guess a guy is supposed to have a big truck, and have an ozone hole chasing you down the road.

[mtla4]

I heard some things nasty things about Mini engines during the cold season. I don't know if it's true since I've never owned one.

[rramachand]

Had an 05 cooper s...Such a great little car..It was so rewarding to drive..In the 4 years that I had it, I had 2 brake jobs...Once the warranty ran out and I needed another set of brakes..I was quoted at 1200 bones..Keep in mind that was at the dealership..Im sure you can get a private mechanic to do it for less..But other than maintenance costs, this car is highly recommended

[V8Killer]

my wife has an 08 mini s 9000 miles been to the dealership with 6 CEL!! One of the biggest pieces of shit ever made!!

[footie]

Both my sister-in-law and niece have owned Minis (both Coopers) and both have had problems with them, enough in the niece's case for her to switch to an A3 instead, even though she still prefers the Mini to drive.

I love the car, brilliant to drive in fact but would be wary about owning one that wasn't under warranty.

[dhoggm3]

The engine bay is very packed. More importantly, my '04 Cooper S is more fun to drive on the street than the E36 M3, E93 M3, and the 335i. Have 'em all. For the track, it would be a different choice, but on the street it's very hard to beat the smile factor of a Cooper S.

[DimSum]

Yes. And honestly. The cooper feels the best when you drive it.

[Yes2m3cs]

We have a new 09 cooper S and so far 30k and no problems what so ever..

Great little car..

Brian