Buying Older High Mileage Mini's. Buyer Beware!

Here is my story of buying an owning an 11 year old 100'000+ mini Cooper (R56 non S).
Here is the advice I would give!
1: Has the clutch been done?
2: Buy an OBD scanner and read any codes.
3: Has the tensioner been sorted and the timing chain changed?
4: Look at the oil and coolant carefully.
5: look out for white smoke and rough idling.
6: keep some cash aside as they need a lot of care because I doubt you will find one with all this work done.
/ mini

[@vinced3578]

243,000 miles on my 2007 Cooper D and still alive! (So is the car) 😂😂

[@40kMuses]

😂😂😂

[@pablochacon6362]

Is it still running now???

[@RailFlicks]

Personally, I think the diesel version is much more reliable. Peugeot engine which is fitted to many makes of car, and £30 road tax giving you spare cash to pay for other repairs!🙂

[@danielyim267]

how much in total repairs?

[@cabacs8062]

I think this is a great video and great advice. So many people buy with their heart and not their head. The only other thing I would say is, if possible take somebody with you to look at the car who is either A, a mechanic or knows the car type well or B, ls going to ask you why you would buy a car with these faults. Well done mate, thumbs up from me.

[@user-nn9yk]

To someone who knows how to work on them, it's only a maybe $300 job all repairs you listed it needed. Have to know how to maintain a car that isnt new. Isnt hard to work on them just because it's a little tedious and it takes patience to make a mini cooper reliable when first buying 10 year old or more cars

[@eyeorewolf]

If you don't like working on cars, don't buy a Mini. If you buy one as a toy as opposed to reliable transportation they are a blast to own. We currently own 4 and they all have issues. Great video and a warning to people that don't like or know how to work on cars.

[@cubeaceuk9034]

I have just watched this and I feel your pain. I have had each of the engine variants of the BMW Mini from new. I am a high mileage driver and every one of my Minis has done at least 90,000 miles or more and only the Mini with your engine gave me any problems. Mini refused to believe there was any engine problem until the warranty ran out and not long after gave up the ghost at around 120,000 miles. It had a full service history all taken at the relevant mileages. I kept an eye on oil and coolant but eventually it suddenly overheated without warning and that was it. They are not cheap to service and the early ones were hard on tyres. That improved over time but now the newer models are much harder on brake pads and disks. Clutches still wear well. Steering has always been solid. Seats comfortable despite the hard suspension. The current three cylinder engine on the Mini Cooper seems to be running well but the service intervals seem much closer together now and the telemetry goes straight to the dealer so they phone me if I haven't booked a service in due time. I'm now coming up to 50,000 miles on my current Mini and the engine seems to be as good as when I first bought it. Internal noise has never been that loud. Maybe you also had cracked engine mounting blocks. They do get louder with age but not that much in my experience. The other puzzling thing is you said the clutch slowly went. I have never experienced that. One minute it works and the next I can't select the next gear. The very early Minis had a gear selection problem and sometimes got stuck in 2nd gear. I never experienced that other than on my first Mini and it only happened once. The only explanation I can think of is I think most people tend to thrash their Minis perhaps more than you would a lot of other cars. My wife has a new Fiesta and although her car is more economical than mine fuel wise. The costs of servicing is roughly the same like for like service. There is only a few pounds difference in it bearing in mind we both use our dealerships to have the work done. Again, sorry to hear about your experience and agree that the mini is not a cheap car mile for mile to keep on the road.

[@kaml1369]

Your experience reminded me of my first car, a MG Metro. I had endless problems with it, but having watched your video now I know why my car kept overheating. I must’ve spent a couple of thousand pounds on repairs; the mechanic must’ve saw me as a cash cow. Looking back, a decent and honest mechanic would’ve advised me to get rid of it as the repairs costs more than what the car is worth. I was young and stupid at the time but I loved the car. Twenty years later, I used the same garage for some basic maintenance work on a car we had from new which the warranty just expired. A new guy bought the business, a very good mechanic and a decent and honest man. Because a few years later, we had an issue with a Qashqai (from new), he advice us to get rid it and buy another car as he cannot be certain that the repair will rectify the problem. The job would’ve been £1K+, he would rather be honest than to charge me for a job that I may be dissatisfied with. I wish the previous owner was as decent.

[@pattes4304]

Thank you. Very helpful. I‘m looking for a mini since some weeks. Now I’m a little afraid of buying a used old mini.

[@geoffbell2995]

Got a 58 plate Mini One, 78.5 k miles now on the clock, owned it for three and a half years and no major problems. Four new tyres for 1st MOT. under my ownership, it came with mismatched tyres 2 barely legal by the of the MOT. It passed that and the 3 subsequent ones with no advisories. Last December front O2 sensor failed, replaced it myself. Aircon regassed this summer for £35. I check oil level etc every month and no issues, no noises or any other untoward issues. So happy with it that I'm getting another one this time next year, just a basic Cooper 2017or 2018 model as I'm planning a very long road trip in 2022, provided the current pandemic has abated. Stay safe everyone and enjoy your Mini.

[@isofilmy]

I think that's the key. Finding one that's hasn't ran low on oil and over heated warping the head. Very jealous. Can't wait to get one again.

[@geoffbell2995]

Spoke a bit too soon. Mine has just succumbed to DSWS (drivers side window syndrome 🤣🤣🤣)

[@touchedouche8806]

I have taken care of mine. At every marker… maintained. Listened and paid attention. Been a GREAT car. I love it

[@GigiWright]

What do you have and mileage

[@touchedouche8806]

@@GigiWright r56 130k

[@need4speed5353]

I bought my 2007 Mini cooper r56 base at 119k miles, which is pretty good, for only $5k five months ago and it's now around 125k miles. It had 8 previous owners and it was passed around a lot. You would think that it would be a shit car but no, it's a great little bugger but not perfect. Here's the issues I've had with it so far: 1: The timing chain needs to be replaced soon (obviously) 2: The previous owners never replaced the spark plugs and the spark plug holes had a lot of oil in them 3: It's stalled 4 times. Twice in my driveway at literally the same spot just days apart, once while I was driving at around 15 mph, and once while I was in a parking lot 4: I have to top off the oil every 400 miles or so There's a lot of stuff to list but those are the main ones. But most of the issues I've had were during the first 2 months I had it (plus it was winter and it gets pissy when it's cold). It got a lot better after all the maintenance I've done and now it runs pretty smooth In conclusion: I have no regrets buying it and I adore the little guy. I did my research and I knew what I was getting into before buying the car. I wanted a car with some issues because I love fixing shit, plus it gives the car more personality. If you're willing to give your car as much a attention as a child, go ahead and get one

[@isofilmy]

As much attention as a child 🤣 great comment

[@Mel-ez8fp]

Literally

[@robbinbanks1311]

I just got my self a 2003 mini one 1.6 petrol and I love it she has 110k miles which I don't think is bad for her age. She likes her oil but I have been told they all do, I just give her a little tipple when she needs it. She has a full service history to

[@LastTrump7]

@@isofilmyI can buy a nice 2011 with 170,000 got $3,000. Is that a good buy?Can this engine go 250k?

[@LastTrump7]

@@isofilmy​​⁠ can buy a 2011 Mini for $3,000. Looks very good. Woman who is third woman who owned it is going through a divorce and needs to sell it fast. Carfax looked good. Saw normal maintenance over the years but only a timing chain tensioner on it about 4 years ago. Automatic, recent brakes and tires…good buy? Any things to look for?

[@josephdrake78]

I only wish I had seen this video before I bought mine. I love my Mini and baby it, but it has literally been a nightmare to have with pretty much most of the issues you talked about in this video. I check the oil almost daily! I'm stuck with this car and a payment for the next four years. I'm actually learning to be a mechanic myself just because I can't afford to keep putting it in the shop. I'm currently having a oil leak from the top of the engine and its missing so tomorrow I'm gonna change out my valve cover gaskets spark plugs, give it an oil change and hoping for the best! I may start doing a series of how to videos on a Mini as I work on all the issues it having, lol! It sucks because like you, my Mini fits me like a glove and I love driving it but most days it seems more trouble than its worth.

[@isofilmy]

I look fotward to the videos

[@Sennaxm71]

Good on you that you're willing to learn mechanics to work on your MINI, but as a mechanic, I'm in no way saying don't, but, I think that is a very brave move, because I hate working on these MINI's and it's my job lol My wife has even bought an R55 Cooper S Clubman, that had full service history (I insisted this as a minimum if she wants me to fix it) and even with all that, we've still had issues with it only a few weeks into having it. It's a bloody nightmare car to work on anything, pretty much most stuff is standard to remove the front (not a terrible thing, if it comes off like a flip front) but what a ball ache just to remove a turbo pipe or a foglight.

[@schm147]

Hey bro it's been 2 years, where are the videos?

[@wendyelizabethlambert4815]

I've bought a Mini, got some issues. Busy fixing it. Love my Mini, I don't care who says what. And I'm going to buy another one. When you are a fan, you are a fan! People will always have their opinions and I have no regrets on my purchase 🖤🖤🖤

[@isofilmy]

Yeah I think I'll have one again. I did love mine

[@pira76]

What year and model? How many miles?

[@richardbrown5204]

I have a 2003 R50 cooper. Love it too bits. Rebuilt the engine. Running 6 speed getrag. Fast sweet car.

[@wendyelizabethlambert4815]

@@pira76 2002 model. When I got the car it had just over 55000 km. It's a classic car and I literally don't see any similar ones around.

[@princemack1506]

same here...im going to try and collect these mini's, .just brought a convertible

[@aedwards4496]

Ah, the joys of car ownership!! The benefit is that you learn a lot about them. Great curve to learn from

[@cueball6969]

My flat mate owns a 2006 Mini One with 120,000 miles on it The tyre pressure sensors are dodgy, but otherwise, apart from the usual wear and tear (bulbs, brake pads, cam belt etc) the car has had literally no faults since new according to it's log books

[@shankarbalan3813]

I have an R56 Cooper S mid 2012 model out here in India. Auto Transmission. Bought used from a chap who had hardly used it. It hasn’t done many kilometres at all. When I got it a year ago it had done 33700 ish. I did a thorough service when I got it. And I ve put another 9000 joy riding kms on the clock in these last 12 months. I’ve changed the oil properly. And I keep checking the dipstick every couple of weeks and so far despite this being a turbo, I haven’t found signs of oil starvation. Even the oil colour one year down the line isn’t like it’s turned black or anything. It’s fine really. I have changed out the Auto Transmission Fluid and yes despite the car not having done many miles, I believe changing it out was a good thing mostly on account of the age of the fluid. I’ve changed all the 4 disc rotors and brake pads and brake wear sensors. Now the car is due it’s second service after it came into my hands. I will be replacing the V Belt or Serpentine Belt as it is called. The existing one is showing some signs of wear and becoming slowly a bit brittle around the edges. It is very probable that this has never until now, been changed. I will also be changing the oil again even though I use only fully synthetic BMW LL01 FE as recommended. And synthetic oils do last much longer than mineral oils. Still, I will follow the annual oil change method. I did face one issue around two months into ownership where the coolant pump which is made of plastic by the way, started leaking.so I bought an OEM-replacement for it and luckily the replacement is a metal one. We changed it. I also changed the spark plugs to Iridium Spark Plugs from the original BERU standard ones. Because Iridium Spark Plugs are much more efficient. If at all there is any issue, I think the vehicle status on board display gets confused and the brake wear sensor at the rear seems to show that I need to change my brake pads at a faster rate than normal. I believe this is due to dirt and dust interfering with the brake wear sensor. So I am going to remove it and clean it and re fix it back. I know that my brake pads do not need changing again, I haven’t done enough kilometres on them as yet. Otherwise this car is a real pleasure to drive and it’s linear power delivery and fantastic handling never fails to bring a big grin to the face! From a safety and general preparedness point of view I always carry a bottle of OEM BMW blue coolant, a bottle of distilled water and a bottle of BMW LL01 engine oil with me in the car. But truly. This R56 Mini Cooper is a real modern classic.

[@PeterSmith-ls7ut]

Sounds a nice car! When people like you and also the person you purchased your car off, take the time to look after the car, and deal with any issues straight away. It's a case of, Look after the car, and the car will look after you.... There are a lot of cars out there that have been mis used and then passed on. And I think this video is a great example.

[@feldons5621]

Glad you are enjoying ownership of the Mini. Brave to have one in India! You are clearly looking after it well . In the USA they do have problems with the auto trans which may occur after higher mileage . Wishing you well and thanks for sharing.

[@shankarbalan3813]

@@feldons5621 haha. My ‘bravery’ in having a ten year old mini in India is costing me a good bit that’s for sure….but when we place the enjoyment factor in the balance, it is well worth it…

[@Madeofsongs]

310 000 miles this week, and still loving my little Clubman ^^

[@mordica16]

Do you do all the work yourself? Thank you.

[@stephentaylor1476]

My wife has a 2007 r56 mini. She has owned it for five and a half years. It was bought with forty six thousand miles and has now done seventy five thousand. The car has been excellent. The car worried me with the stories of high oil consumption but this has not been the case needing no oil top ups between six thousand mile services. The only big repair we have had is a catalytic converter. Cat converter six thousand mile service and mot four hundred and forty-five pounds not bad at all. N

[@debbiepeter112]

Wow. I paid £750 for my Mini and entire time I owned it I paid £450 for a new clutch and that was it. It was totalled and I recently bought a 2001 Mini to replace it (I actually only like 1st gen Minis) . I have had it checked and he couldn't really find anything major wrong with it. Fingers crossed it stays that way. I agree though, they can be very expensive to repair or even do maintenance on them.

[@krasnm21]

White smoke bother's me as well on mine 2011 R56:). Already got a replacement of what we call "oil cup" and it's gasket, got the stabilizer bushings replaced (front + rear) and practically - that's it. Owning for a year. Bought a 189 000 km one. Had driven 2500 km/year

[@tm5346]

I love my mini ugg it suck to worry at it nonstop on the other and there’s many cars in modern day cars that are a total nightmare of the engines lock up and you’re really SOL ! The mini is not the worst car on the market by far! Definitely a fun fun fun car I love it

[@dunnockdan]

Picked up a 2009 Mini First 1.4 for £800 - 145,000 miles on it, fitted an 02 sensor, fixed some oil leaks (£5 gasket) and fitted a new chain and tensioner (fist one it ever had!!) - done 5,000 miles in it so far, bloody cheap motoring.

[@wowed1659]

Im getting a used blue 2008 Mini Cooper and I’ve just been doing some research, even though I have no choice (I don’t really care what car I get as my first car since I should be grateful to have a car at my age) in getting it because I’m in highschool and this will be my first car. I found this helpful, thanks a lot for the info

[@NorCalPhil]

As soon as I saw this video I immediately moaned and said to myself “ooooh the clutch” from my own experience with my 2008 R56 cooper. Exact same thing here in the states, it’s not the parts, it’s the labor that is the killer. Almost $1200 by the time it was all said and done. Mine was the same as yours. Original from ‘08, so it did 11 years of service and 100k miles so I don’t expect having to replace it again while I own the car, thank god. Lol

[@stevedonoghue2194]

Ouch!! Was just about to buy one for my daughter ,sounds worse than my range rover sport. Excellent advice ,thanks

[@dylanhalouska47]

I have an r53 best car I’ve ever owned.... after I fixed fifty oil leaks

[@HughBrown]

I've got an R56 mini one. I fully agree with this video. Get an OBD scanner to read and reset codes. My model had a failed steering lock so bought a device that overrides this - now no steering lock but rather that then expensive steering column replacement - once fitted (if you have this issue you can use the OBD device to reset the warning). The car drinks oil so really check it often - i didn't and the car really started to fail - hopefully no permanent damage. The head gasket went and was replaced. Also clutch after 80,000 miles - it needs it . replaced tensioner but not timing belt - might be next on agenda. Parts of exhaust rusted out. Car can stall at very slow speeds - ie parking but not too badly. I don't use the auto start as I still am paranoid it won't start at crucial moments. Still running and hopefully regular proper maintenance will keep it going. So far everything else runs well. All other thinks like brake pads, tires, wiper blades and oil are just consumables like petrol. Need to check/replace filters - some are not covered in basic service. It's a great runner when it is.

[@jonny7491]

Thank you for your honesty.

[@paullandon6155]

Apparently the original mini was awkward to work on too. Mechanics didn't jump for joy when they saw one driving into the garage as they had to lift out the engine to do basic work on it but the original was a fantastic car to have. Had three and they just couldn't be stopped. Almost never ever gave trouble and would go for miles on a petrol station assistants fart. Liked the sound of the engine too.

[@bikeman123]

That's not true. The original mini was very easy to work on. Rust was its main problem.

[@HarryJamesE]

I recently bought a 2005 Mini Cooper and when I went to look at it, it looked spotless. Just had its clutch replaced and had so much work done I just had to get it and £1450 seemed like a steal. Fast forward a few months and my rear left wheel popped on the way to work. £144 wheel replacement. Then front driver side wheel split on motorway so I was late for an interview another £114. I eventually said f it and replaced the other 2 wheels. Literally a week after this my steering felt off and I just assumed it was my wheel alignment so took it to the garage. Got a call from the mechanic saying all my inner rods and bushes are corroded and it will cost £320. He also recommended i didn't drive it until repaired. I need my car to travel a long distance to work so this wasn't possible. I've just graduated Uni so I don't have alot of money. All my friends and family keep reminding me that buying this car was a financial mistake

[@progpuss]

Just had clutch replacement on cooper s 1k also replaced hpfp and vacuum pump 450 , water pump 250 all on a 60k miles , hopefully no more issues , I check oil every 2 weeks , it only does 3k miles a year but it's all short journeys by my wife. lovely car to drive though. Had car for 6 years.

[@tom.northshore]

This is why you buy an r53. They are much cheaper, have a real key, can be easily modded, actually don't break every month, and have a much bigger community behined them! #r53

[@harrietlove100]

Great video! Mine has the exactly same problem cutting out when I stopped at lights, junctions etc. I thought it was just me!

[@isofilmy]

Had you just swapped a battery too?

[@milkymarssnickers]

I own a 2009 R57 Cooper S convertible myself - and love it. Yes, maintenance is a nightmare costwise - but still : its lovely to drive and look at. Currently i am looking for either a Cooper S Clubman with a broken engine to have a daily after fixing - and/or a 1st Gen R50 Cooper S with the supercharger because of sentimental reasons. Yes - i am a fan. Nobody should expect Renault Twingo bills on a Cooper :) You pay for it - or buy another car.

[@adambeardsmore]

Very useful video. Not gonna lie if I saw that car I'd instantly snap it up aswell! Something about the racing green and sunroof really appeals to me. Been looking for a couple months now for the "perfect" mini but thanks to this video I definitely won't just jump at the first one that fits the bill 👍

[@isofilmy]

I am still looking for a green cooper s with the right spec

[@erickotapish635]

I have my 07 mini s and I love it ..it does have its problems and requires lots of maintenance but I just drove it on a 3 hour trip today with no problems at 120k miles

[@noel5ilv3rlake]

Have R53 MCS ‘05 , it has been 17 years now and honestly it’s still great 👍 cat ! yes, I just replaced the old radiator last month by myself that’s the first ever I’ve done,it was not difficult job with ( easy) and I’m not a mechanic I’m noob ! And I just replaced the 2nd fan resistor, just regular Serpentine belt, all are easy than I thought ! And I don’t even jack up the car ! Pretty fun plus passed the test! No need to spend much ! And the supercharger is still quite good

[@mickeymini9522]

R56 mini engines (n12, n14) overheat resulting in lots of downstream issues. One of the less known issues are inlet valve seats dropping out - if this happens you are looking at either a new engine or total rebuild - I know, my partners n12 did this at 125,000. The n12 does give you some warning - the engines misfires at idle when hot. This is an inlet valve seat moving with in its recess and the associated inlet valve not seating properly, resulting in loss of compression. When you rev the engine the misfire stops - the n12 uses VVT which is variable valve lift on the inlet valves, so at high lift points the inlet valves come back on to their respective valve seat with enough force to seat properly. If you experience this problem, stop using the car and get the head repaired by an engine specialist, you will need to replace the faulty valve seat. I rebuilt my partners engine, however after one valve seat dropped causing a lot of damage. Runs a treat now, but the bill was £1k for parts and my labour was free!

[@isofilmy]

Great knowledge

[@MakeAllThingsBeautiful]

someone above commented on 'misfiring whilst idling' ... oh dear .. however taken as a warning that is very kind innovation

[@rogerramjet2656]

Thank you very much. Sorry to hear your problems but great for your explanations on what to look for on buying one..

[@trqster]

You got yourself a lemon mate , it's unfortunate and can happen to anyone! I'm on my 2nd Mini R56 Cooper D and it's already 14 years old and still drives like new and has been almost 100% reliable so far, just regular maintenance. It's one of the best used cars out there imo if you get obviously a properly maintened one.

[@CoolGorillaGoAnimate7000]

Honestly, as long as you maintain the Mini, researching the proper way, and don't follow BMW's way and maintain it yourself, you really can't beat getting a higher mileage Mini. If you're planning on using it as a daily drive, I'd play it safe with lower mileage.

[@RailFlicks]

I agree, and let's face it ANY high milage car has potentially expensive issues, no matter what you buy! All these things could equally apply to a Ford Fiesta, Renault, anything!

[@GigiWright]

Yep change oil between 3,000-6,000 regular maintenance and cross your fingures

[@chrismoon7518]

I think the safest bet is the first gen R50/1/2/3 unless you are buying nearly new. They are long in the tooth now but if you get a well looked after one they are great: I have had two now and no major issues...

[@nazzytpr]

Right, bought a r50, engine is literally indestructible, and even if it breaks you can find them in every junkyard, parts are cheap and in my opinion they are the best feeling ones

[@LOTPOR0402]

Oil and filter change as and when with decent oil , always use coolant in the rad and it should be ok .Main reason for gasket going is corrosion because people are to tight to buy antifreeze .Its not just there to stop the coolant from freezing , its acts as a rust inhibiter .But yes these cars can can expensive , if you rely on rip off garage prices .My tip is never get involved in cheap high millage cars unless you are prepared to work on them yourself

[@kcramone4854]

I got a 2013...replaced the clutch,new brakes, roters and pads... and did the right thing and did the front berrings...the car now runs like new..yes it was expensive but if you love a mini its worth it.

[@isofilmy]

Yeah, if I get another I'll be budgeting for some preventative work

[@normancoutts]

You have learned some good lessons. Thanks for sharing them.

[@iainmclaughlan1557]

I bought my 1999 Nissan Primera for £1,595 13 years ago and it has been incredibly reliable.

[@benjeboy12]

Where are we going with cars! Way back I bought an original style mini which had a slipping clutch….bought a new clutch plate for £6 and fitted it myself in a morning…..perfect!

[@lindalovesmusic9091]

Lucky that you had a 'real' Mini Cooper, not a BMW Mini. Big difference.

[@bajoobiecuzican]

I have a 2013 Mini Cooper, automatic. Appt $29k brand new. I love driving it. But my few complaints are, the brakes are iffy if trying to stop quickly. It does run a little hot which causes the fan to kick on after the car is turned off. Repairs cost a small fortune. $600 for a replacement taillight ensemble. It runs and handles very well.

[@v1cenzo56]

Maybe it would have been useful to differentiate R50/53s and R56s. They really are two different breeds, one is definitely much more upmarket with a much better build quality (R56), unfortunately, technicwise also much more problematic, mainly due to THP/VTIs engines (Peugeot/Bmw collaboration) which are made of garbage. On the other hand, the older one (R50/53s) feels much older and « cheap » when it goes to interior quality, however, engines are bulletproof, timing chains and tensioners are very durable. So, if you really want an old mini, buy the oldest. That being said, when it goes on maintenance such as oil pan gaskets, electric steering wheel, or worse, clutch… Labor is a concern on both gens, as key components are not really easy to access to. Cheers

[@leavingasap843]

Your nuts, they are all junk

[@tylershepard315]

I have a 2002 Mini Cooper Base Model. What model would you consider that? New to the Mini Cooper world.

[@v1cenzo56]

@@tylershepard315 then you have a R50 😉, this schould probably be the most reliable bmw mini. And also the oldest btw

[@EvendimataE]

i like the body style of minis a lot.....but its videos like this that is stopping me from buying one....actually a friend sold his mini for $1,500...i mad mad and told him...you know i want your mini, why you sold it to somebody else.....my friend replied....if i sold it to you, we will not be friends anymore by now......LOL

[@isofilmy]

I'll get another one, one day I'm sure. I might be brave and work on it when I do. Whatever I spend on it I'll be sure to keep some cash back for repairs. 🤣

[@jasondonavich2758]

Crazy really how cars can be mistreated, I've just got my first car a 2006 mini one convertible, 2 pervious owners. 93k miles with pretty decent service history. Not a whole lot wrong with it tbh. Very clean inside. Got it for £1995from a private garage but unfortunately they wouldn't go lower because of not being able to get hold of other cars to replace it when it sold. Drives really nice so hopefully it lasts for many more years. Gutted you got a bad deal with your mini.

[@isofilmy]

Mine was ok till 107k

[@darrenwebster2193]

I just bought my wife a second convertible, as just owning one isn't enough apparently..! It's a 2005 Cooper convertible, average miles, fsh and receipts.. £850 private sale (from a very posh area and total gent) as it needs rear radius arm replaced, which I can do blindfolded.. So an utter bargain, all leather is mint, all jet black and hood is faultless, not a single pucker.. He even had it valeted and detailed @£225 for me to pick up.. Bonkers.!

[@user-ii6lq1hx4q]

Almost did the purchase yesterday, my friend dragged me out of the deal scene and we left with no hurt.

[@swd6430]

well diesel owner here and this thing is botomless pit, but its fun to drive

[@anthonyxuereb792]

That's why it pays never to shop for a car on your own.

[@deborahdavidson7119]

Really helpful thanks. We've been looking at a Mini Clubman 2016 with one owner fish, but has 138k on the clock. My sis-in-law has a mini countryman and it's been a nightmare for her and I don't think it had high mileage. We are so wary of it. & after owning the most fab Honda CRV, which was simply brilliant (had to scrap her because of London Ulez) it's been tough.

[@isofilmy]

@@deborahdavidson7119 I think that's a different generation but glad it was of help

[@anthonyxuereb792]

Your experience was similar to mine, excusing the problems only to regret it later. Mine concerned an Audi.

[@stewal6835]

I bought a 2005 mini just to tide me over after my Alfa was becoming a money pit. 3 years later I still run it and its pretty bomb proof: it just keeps going and passing mot's each time. Not only are they better looking but the later early cars (with the better gearbox) don't seem to have the number of issues of the R56 cars. You need a specialist for the clutch: there is reputable specialist place in Coventry that will do it for less than £500.

[@davidking9707]

In 2019 I bought a 2005 MINI ONE with 107000 miles on it. Now it has 125000 miles on it and I still love driving it.

[@gavinotavera9492]

Here a 2002 Mini One silver with black roof and Imola r81 rims. It has 265000 kms now and it burns 1 LT oil every 1500 kms but i love it so much.

[@davidking9707]

@@gavinotavera9492 That is pretty good going. As long as the car is cared for and loved it will run well. My Mini One is part of the family.

[@spargeltarzan11]

How do you have only 50 subscribers ? Excellent review.

[@johnfitton3716]

Im subscribing now 👍

[@ellisgreen1479]

Just brought a mini r56 .....42,000 miles with all Bells and whistles £3000 in 2022 what a lucky buy Your video had open my eyes a little 👍

[@isofilmy]

All these issues can be overcome. Check your oil regularly. Put aside some money for repairs. Enjoy your car

[@blue_kx2030]

R56 cooper, 09 plate, 70k on clock, constant issues and the are 100% a money pit. Like another comment said, if you want an r56, go for ones after 2011 with an n18 engine. I part ex mine with the issues not being noticed for 1.2k and picked up my abarth 500c as a replacement and love that........ oh wait the turbo blew up on that last week and cost me 600 quid to fix haha

[@isofilmy]

Ooooh I like the arbarths

[@aldershot5100]

Agreed.Rediculous cost for a new Clutch. Watch a vid of it.They have to take the whole front off .Bloody computer puts out multiple faults that dont exist..But I love her.The driving is fantastic like no other small car.Great cornering.I intend to keep her forever so it's always cheaper than a new car

[@isofilmy]

Seriously looking at R56 Cooper S or a Clubman Cooper S

[@minimeee04]

Its Who you know when owning any Car £80 clutch from Europarts and mate did mine for £100 total £180

[@kettlefuryyt]

@@minimeee04 saw a few of your comments you seem to know the score. I'm close to purchasing a Mini Cooper S 2007 within the next couple of weeks.

[@Guitartom-rh5zm]

You know what , they are the worst best car to have . As a first car I think they are great. Teaches you how to maintain an engine and look after a vehicle.

[@termz2230]

Thanks so much for this video. I was seriously considering buying an older Mini. From your experienced I will definitely be a more educated buyer.

[@deanprosser5224]

Sorry to hear about all that, I had a cooper R50 and it cost alot on MOT's but was fairly reliable other than that. I only had it for just over a year and sold it as it was too small for me at the time but like you I would like another. The thing to remember is after you have paid for these big jobs it should be pretty reliable for the next few years.

[@isofilmy]

I agree Dean. I think it's just a case of going in with your eyes open.

[@HarryNixonTube]

My R50 has just sailed through its MOT with no advisories. 95k.

[@tristramcoffin926]

I bought an 08 Mini Hatch the beginning of December. It's just like yours without the gaudy striping but it's blue with a white top. I don't drive it much right now but I love it and am very careful with it. It has 137k miles. I just assume it is very fragile but it is also fun even when you don't open it up. Normal commutes driven conservatively still feel like I am in a toy. I can't open it up anyway right now bc literally as I was driving it home the clutch gave out. Talk about your all time anti-climatic evenings. I got lucky and found a friend of the dealer who would replace the clutch for much less in labor than normal. He told me the guys at the Mini dealership charge $160 an hour for labor and this was confirmed when my local Mini dealer quoted $1900 to $2600 depending on if the flywheel also needed to be replaced. This guy took mercy on me and replaced it for $1080. Still not an expected expense but on measure a sigh of relief. Anyway, now I am determined to be informed about what I need to be careful and aware of which is what brings me here. I will be deliberate to check the oil at least every 2 weeks and I probably should have the other items you mentioned that I can't do(chain) looked at. I don't have a lot of (read-any) mechanical experience but I can bleed out coolant if I need and certainly can make sure the oil and coolant are not leaking into each other. Anyway, thanks for your vid to inform me of the bugbears to be aware off. I am already driving like a grandmother in order to break in the new clutch for the first 500 miles so hopefully this will also provide more life to my new(to me) car.

[@tristramcoffin926]

One other thing: the tone of your voice was like as if you were talking about a lost girlfriend, the one that got away so to speak, so I am not surprised that many of your responses to comments are prefaced with 'I will probably get other one one day.' ;)

[@isofilmy]

Glad you like the car. I'm looking at clubman now. Fingers crossed

[@isofilmy]

He he he just saw your "lost girlfriend comment, very true. This won't be my last mini"

[@RetroKingOG]

It depends on the year of the mini you bought, when BMW first bought the brand in the early 2000s they had issues trying to get it right. Around 2015, they started improving reliability majorly. I own 2016 Mini Countryman, 87'000 Km so far, absolutely no issues. It is cheaper than you think to maintain, the trick is to take it to shops that specify in cars like BMW, Mercedes. For a canadian like me; i go to Canadian tire cause oil changes are cheap and they know how to maintain higher end vehicles, does not cost as much as it would taking to the dealership.

[@michaeltoohey6858]

Well presented video My daughter has owned one for 11 years. Yes a few problems over the time but still a great 🚘. Where online did you get your OBD scanner from .

[@nigelarthur1281]

Thanks, this vid was a great help to me, just looking to buy a mini now

[@djb4069]

I brought a JCW mini coupe, full service history, at 25k, I brought it with my heart, PLEASE WALKAWAY from any mini !!!!! Money pit New clutch, new ECU , 3k in bills after 12 months !!!!!!!

[@isofilmy]

I can't pretend I don't want another one though 😥

[@gardnerwebb3749]

😳

[@minimeee04]

Bought.

[@isofilmy]

Oh no!

[@SteeeveO]

I had a 2013 JCW - loved it as a daily driver - more so than my previous 996 Porsche. However when the engine started to make odd noises, (they all do that sir), when the front damping failed on both sides (that plus service = £1k), when I was told the brake bleed nipples seize & calipers are £400 a side....it was time to swap it for a Nissan Juke RS - which is relatively boring, but (so far) has been perfect.

[@GrandmasAshess]

Got an R56 LCI, as long as you keep the oil full, service it as per intervals, do the tensioners at 85k like they recommend you'll be fine. I'm on 115k done 30k miles and have had no issues due to preventive maintenance (stops all major issues). Remapped by TDI tune and the only things I have replaced failure of the car has been a clutch and a coolant stat. Really depends on who's owned the car before, unfortunately too many negligent owners blaming the car... there are lemons everywhere and it's hard to spot them :)

[@isofilmy]

Yeah I think my coolant stat had gone too.

[@GrandmasAshess]

Good video as well, interesting and engaging keep it up!

[@wellwh0]

So new timing chain and tensioner isn't updated version for life, it should be done again?

[@223raulh]

Yea this helps out a ton. It makes me second guess the fact that I want to buy this car.

[@jeffbelcher5877]

I have just purchased a 2007 mini one today with FSH but I found your video interesting as I only have one key

[@MissionForward3]

My 2004 R53 Cooper S only has 26K miles but is error free. Trading it for a 2013 JCW convertible next week.... I love Minis.

[@hondamarsh6504]

You have living proof that these are money pits as they age. I was like you, I just wanted to own one but was shocked to find videos and reviews like this and changed my mind. I like honda and toyota hence my name.👍👍

[@wellwh0]

I went through all that with my R56 except clutch and milky coolant (well known BMW oil leaks, thermostat, electrics, timing chain, water pump, water pump belt, PCV, oxygen sensor...); it still burns oil like drunk even if all oil leaks are fixed and it is "normal" for BMW. Done that all between 125k and 135k km. I love the way it drives and it looks. But r56s are pain in the ass, i thought R50s have problems, so I'll go with R56. Bought it early 2018 now it't time to get it rid, I'm tired of throwing money in it. It has MAF code, but it doesn't have MAF. Mechanic can't find fault. Big pain in the ass for such a little car. Stay away for it, it's cute and fun, but if you turn your head from it for a sec it will look how it can bend you over.

[@Jeeves_]

Had a similar code, if it’s not your mass airflow sensor, the odds are it’s carbon build up on top of the valves. It’ll only get worse from here, but it’s a pretty easy job

[@wellwh0]

@@Jeeves_ Thanks for reply. Mine is N12b14a engine, N12s doesn’t have MAF, also they shouldn’t have problems with carbon build up since they are MPI not DI engines. I’ll go to BMW specialist at Friday. I’ll update if there is solution.

[@sfrealestatedealmaker6001]

Pain in the ass car, my neighbor has one. My Ferrari is more reliable…

[@wellwh0]

@@sfrealestatedealmaker6001 I fixed mine. It turned it only works with rear NTK O2 sensor. With Desno and EPS it had weird codes. “maf plausibility” 00-something. Many people rid car beacuse of it. Awful engines. (€100) is NTK lambda. At BMW is some crazy money like €400 if I remeber. Hope this helps someone in future.

[@darrenwebster2193]

I just bought my wife a second convertible, as just owning one isn't enough apparently..! It's a 2005 Cooper convertible, average miles, 2 keys, FSH and receipts.. £850 private sale (from a very posh area and total gent) as it needs rear radius arm replaced, which I can do blindfolded.. So an utter bargain, all leather is mint, all jet black and hood is faultless, not a single pucker.. He even had it valeted and detailed @£225 for me to pick up.. Bonkers.!

[@isofilmy]

Winner winner chicken dinner

[@slippi9512]

I was going to look/purchase a 2011 MINI Cooper S. Thank you for your insight...I'll be looking for a different type of vehicle.

[@LastTrump7]

How did the 2011 go…looking at one myself.

[@slippi9512]

@@LastTrump7 not too well...looked better in pics than in person and needed more work than mentioned. Went a different direction.

[@davejt1967]

Like your video. Confirms what I have seen elsewhere about the R56. I'm still thinking of getting one, but while an amateur, I've been working on my own cars for some 35 years and have amassed some experience and tools. Also the car will be a 2nd car and not need to be relied upon.

[@shagmonroes]

I've had 2 R56 Minis, one good one bad. When they're good they're brilliant, when they are bad they are useless. Unfortunately my current car is the latter and to sort all of its issues will set me back 4 grand. It was a 3 grand 🍋 when I bought it so spending another 4 will only succeed in turning it into a 7 grand 🍋

[@simsfantasia]

I am considering this for my first car. I am trying to be as careful as possible when viewing the car, ive got a huge list of issues i need to look into. I am not too worried though because I am only gonna be driving it for 1-2 year I reckon to get my insurance down (new driver).

[@deaz2k]

Bought my first car few months back and found a mini cooper for 800 quid, after checking out the car in person i was able to talk him down to only 650 (it had a few problems that i had to take care off) So far the car has been amazing, after a few homemade repairs and 2 trips to the mechanic the car in total costed me around 1.2K and i love it. Fingers crossed for it not to give me problems. Absolutely love the car, used to think Minis were a bit odd and not fun but after driving it around everyday for the past few months i began to fall in love with it.

[@aquamoon88]

How is your mini doing? Im thinking of getting a 2012 mini with 131k miles on it for 5k. What do you think?

[@SLR-722]

Got Mini ONE R56 2010 98PS. 111k on the clock, oil change every 6k. No problems at all. Top up oil every 800 miles approx 0.3l. No turbo, no problems. Soon will remap IT at stage 1, will make approx 120-130 PS.

[@isofilmy]

Great! That's the problem with buying a used mini you don't know if the owner has looked after it as well you have.

[@minimeee04]

Re map a Mini One that's when your problems will start it still wont pull the skin off a Rice pudding😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@SLR-722]

Well, what is the point to buy unreliable and more expensive Cooper ? Power will be even better after remap for approx £250 budget, mate

[@daviddillon172]

Top up oil every 800 miles !..Get a Toyota and never ever need to top up oil between services.

[@anoukpoelmans2768]

The 6 points that you mentioned at the end of the video is for every 10 plus year old car. I drive a 10 year old One D N47 with almost 240000 Km (+-150000 miles)

[@AmaanKhan-te8ll]

One advice when working on minis, dont drop anything! Especially the brake fluid cap

[@saxonsteve]

I am in the process of buying a 2012 Mini Cooper S with 131k here in the USA. ( June 2023) It runs great. The paint 🎨 exterior is terrible. Probably going to paint 🎨 it right away. The car 🚗 has had 5 different owners. I’m thinking these folks have done plenty of work on the car. I am concerned some what about the issues that may arise. Luckily, I have a great shop I can bring the car 🚗 too. Hopefully, I’ll have some good luck 🍀 with it!

[@isofilmy]

I believe several components were improved in the later second gen cars (2011-2013). Something to do with the timing chain guide. I'm sure you'll have a great time with it! Enjoy

[@boomerguy9935]

My buddy owns a 2004 Mini Cooper S which he bought new. It is a beast with its supercharger but it is an unpredictable money pit. He gets angry with me when I talk about "REAL" vs "NEW". He says his is real. His engine was made by Chrysler in Argentina (I think) with engineering by BMW and assembled in Nottingham, UK (which he says makes it British". I call it his BMiniW Cooper. It is bad in so many ways!!!!!!

[@NoName-gc5rj]

My r56 had the same white smoke problem and it was a very easy fix with a small valve on the top left of the valve cover literally £12 on Amazon

[@isofilmy]

Ooooh! What's it called

[@mg-roveradverts]

I bought one a R56 101k had most of these issues was awful to own so went after 4 months!

[@B123-w5q]

I don't know what you would expect to be honest, any car with 100k miles will need work done to it.

[@ham7357]

100k isn’t shit really

[@davidgalinat4257]

@@ham7357 For an 11 year old British built German car it is!

[@neilmchardy9061]

@@davidgalinat4257 my 2002 Passat diesel has 255,000 miles and doesn’t use any oil.

[@scullyvisionofficial]

I wish I'd found this video 3 days ago. I just bought a 2007 Mini Cooper. 1.6 litre, 6 gear manual thinking a new clutch ain't a bad shout. Then first traffic jam... a little ... mist of fumage in the wind. I don't have the start stop function. Super basic Cooper. Feels awesome. Drives great... but.. I feel . I'm not sure how I feel about this.😅

[@nodrogmay8275]

Cheers a million for that ihonest and no bars hold opinion!!! Basically it is all 100% correct, as these are real and common issues with these 2nd generation minis. However saying this, it looks and sounds to me that ALL could have been prevented if this specific Mini would have been not only driven but well maintaned from day one. Seems as though the timing chain should have been done a lot earlier and this would have prevented the engine issue, also the headgasket or just the thermostat replaced. Of course it wasn't your fault as this should have been done prior to all going tits up. The clutch....., eell yes this should have also been replaced years b4, ut as so often is the case, money issues or such could have lead to some of the neglect!? Sadly this is all a real pain in the rear but also acumulates to a massive repair job being neccessary somewhere in the cars future. Another issue which is common is a faulty or old battery which in itself leads to all different electrical issues such as the mentioned, engine start stop playing up, the dials also not reading or displaying some faults. Yeap this is my own personal diagnosis and so please dont get uptight or such after reading this. I have rwcently bought a Mini One, R56 model, which has s few minor issues, such as the start-stop problem, it plays up sometimes. This however is ONLY due to the older battery and so once the car is driven longer distance and the the battery thus fully recharged it works 100%. Slightly rough idling? Yeap also when cold but also no black, grey or even white smoke out of the exhaust.

[@huwlljones]

I feel for you, but as you admit all the signs that it was a dog were there from the start. IMO older MINIs are only a viable option if you are prepared to do the work yourself. The front of the MINI is designed to come off for a lot of engine/transmission jobs, its called Front Service Mode (FSM). Putting the car in FSM is not that difficult or time consuming. Unfortunately the MINI is such a cute good to drive car that it appeals to a section of the driving public who are unable or unwilling to keep on top of the maintenance required to keep them running correctly. If you are after cheap trouble free motoring an older MINI is not the car for you. Enter Hyundai or Toyota in the Autotrader search box instead.

[@johnfitton3716]

Just bought a 04 cooper r50 n its bang on none of these problems for 600 quid

[@johnfitton3716]

If it breaks itll get e bayed spares or repairs or broken up

[@lbt9082]

That’s my story😩 Everything is what i went through

[@eggy1962]

wish more cars had clutch changes like mark 2 cavaliers, didn't t even need the box off

[@steveb4012]

Astras of the time were the same, brilliant idea, beats me why they don't do it today.

[@eggy1962]

@@steveb4012 too busy making money out of computerized junk that has planned failure rate even before its fitted

[@steveb4012]

@@eggy1962 True enough!

[@henryrolt3747]

Mk1 Yaris 1.0. Box does need to come out but it's very straightforward.

[@bikeman123]

Original mini gearbox was under the engine so didn't need to be removed to do the clutch.

[@Juan_Hernandez_Jr.]

Great buying tips. Personally, I prefer to repair a used car, than make $500/month car payments for 6 years. Buying a used car is the best way to go. You really do save money in the end. All cars are black holes for money.

[@stevenlangdon-griffiths293]

An interesting video. I have just repaired a Mini Cooper, with the variable valve timing . It had overheated, and the valve seats had dropped on No. 4 cylinder. It also bent the inlet and exhaust valves. It stopped dead on the A580. I didn't know anything about this type of vehicle. I only work on hgv's. I repaired it. It drives not too bad now. I actually really enjoyed working out how it worked, so many things, but I had lots of time. I'm looking for another to repair now on eBay. It really odd, but, I miss working on it!!!

[@isofilmy]

Make video! Sounds like you know your stuff

[@stevenlangdon-griffiths293]

Thanks for your kind observation, but fair play to you, your video was refreshing and interesting, and above all honest.

[@maitrejohn]

Top man, I've thoroughly enjoyed your video. Thanks for the tips and sorry about your misfortune.

[@Taz6688]

11-year-old battery is amazing, without a full service history there's nothing you said that seems out of place, keys suck, someone can break in seconds, try getting a key from the dealer they need it for half a day at least to "program the key", timing belts/chains do have a set life and need changing you should have known or asked when buying, many problems are fixed with a new battery, but for an 11-year-old car I'll bet many plugs and connectors were in need of cleaning, small amount of corrosion in a connector can cause no end of problems

[@vitobelas1843]

Most of the garages will charge around 500 for clutch, for any car. My idea, instead of buying cars on pcp or hp. Buy older car and put like 70 quid a side every month. If it brakes fix it.

[@MikePaterson]

I have had my mini for 12 years - not had any of these issues yet...

[@isofilmy]

So an R56? Cool. I'm really pleased for you. I bought a bit of a turd.

[@tom.northshore]

@@isofilmy should've bought the r53. They run much better!

[@isofilmy]

@@tom.northshore yeah and they look better. Plus the interiors are more interesting.

[@PeterSmith-ls7ut]

@@isofilmy A bit ?

[@littlepippin8445]

Thanks for the tips - very helpful, as I am think of buying one - but maybe not so much now !!

[@isofilmy]

They are great though! If it's been looked after they can be great

[@tonym7cvk430]

Run 2 R50 Minis one being a 53 plate Cooper and the other a 52 plate One, in the past 2 years I have replaced a power steering pump in the One and a clutch in the Cooper, generally been reliable enough the Cooper has low mileage but no service history until till we got it. I have carried out all the service work along with the other jobs all done at home with no major issues If you shop around pars are no more expensive than any other European car. I wouldn’t touch an R56 second generation petrol Mini, the later BMW diesel powered R56 R55, R58 Cooper SD would maybe a consideration.

[@MyZxcvb12]

Your like like me it's the sort of thing I've done in the past. Thanks for posting it's good to know car faults hopefully this will help others .

[@oliverkalamata2753]

My 10 year old BRG R56 has nearly 160k miles on it. I've driven the absolute hell out of it but I've always kept track of the oil and basic maintanence. Still runs damn good too! I love it and refuse to get rid of it.

[@Mike.Cebert]

Great video thank you. I'm 39 and only just passed my test last week (lived in central London all my life so never thought it was viable enough to drive) and have had my eye on these minis for a long time. I think it might be worth paying that bit extra and buying a third generation mini, so one from 2012 onwards? I've heard they have far less issues...?

[@isofilmy]

I know the 2nd gen are better from 2011-13. I am afraid I never did any research on 3rd gen