Why a used Mini Cooper S is the worst car flip EVER! Mini Cooper S nightmare for my Used Car Business and the Customers that WANT to be lied to used Car Salespeople!
Пікірлер: 1 400
@Pauljn673 жыл бұрын
You do make me laugh mate. I'd buy a car from you all day long. Your honesty deserves credit!
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
lol thanks Paul
@Pauljn673 жыл бұрын
@@Calvi36 I rarely pay retail price for a car because the majority of dealers do sod all to warrant the price. This guy is a serious exception. Fair play.
@mattlawton47153 жыл бұрын
@@ChopsGarage that's a good car at a very good price. Hold you ground on it. Its her loss. You are a very good business I have sead before and will again I would buy from you. Keep well keep strong we need more of you.👍
@JC_Denton19792 жыл бұрын
Hey, I'm not from UK and I want to buy a car from this guy! 😄
@sparklebudgie4 ай бұрын
Me too 😊
@PlainlyDifficult3 жыл бұрын
You are a rare thing! An honest used car seller, if I’m in the market for a little runaround, I’d definitely be willing to travel from London to you!
@fatherrob51283 жыл бұрын
Your not real
@darland38213 жыл бұрын
@@fatherrob5128 you're
@ARO3233 жыл бұрын
Plainly Difficult in the chat! My favourite channel 😍
@leegilbert75512 жыл бұрын
Exactly my sentiment watching this.
@AntonyThorburn2 жыл бұрын
Huddersfield. i would,
@barryervin85363 жыл бұрын
I was an auto mechanic for almost 40 years. One thing I learned early on was that when someone says "I'm thinking about buying an XXX, what do you think of them?", what they really mean is "I have made up my mind I am going to buy an XXX and I just want you to tell me that's a good idea even if it isn't".
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
lol so true
@tlangdon123 жыл бұрын
You are correct. There is a lot of psychology in selling (and buying) cars. In your position you will be a friend for life if you can tell them three good things about the car they are "thinking" of buying.
@MobilediscowirralCoUk3 жыл бұрын
Most things on there way out after 10 years! Must admit had no issues with my ml320 2008 no dpf 🙌🏻
@leeiverson1453 жыл бұрын
Spot on, Ive been a mechanic for about 30 years, People ask me the same thing, I say don't buy that, and then they go off and buy it anyway then ask you to fix it, Or they say my friend has one and it drives well, In other words im going to buy it regardless.
@Tara-li6pg2 жыл бұрын
Yup I'm a mechanic that works up on a farm and talk to farmers about trucks all day long. My friends Mum asked. Should I buy this 15 year old Nissan Navara? Bear in mind she lives halfway up a mountain with unpaved roads and loads of snow in the winter so it will actually be used for its intended purpose. I advised her probably be best if I check it out with her to make sure the chassis is good in that famous area they break in half at. And also advised her it'd probably be wiser invest in a Hilux. But the Navara is such a bargain though.... aaaand the chassis is fucked in the exact spot I said it would be. Why bother asking me?
@trevorjarvis30213 жыл бұрын
Honesty is always by far the best policy, I admire how you run your business James and how honest you are with your customers and potential customers. It should stand you in good stead in the years to come. Great video as usual.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Trevor
@ralphlazio50510 ай бұрын
@trevorjarvis - “Honesty” is NOT “always the best policy”. You’d be an absolute fool to think that across the board; but, when it comes to business, you should be honest…. With everything else, you absolutely have to show discretion.
@paulwoods40942 жыл бұрын
So refreshing in this day and age to hear such honesty and say things as they are, rather than just bluff it. This is how a business should be run, being open and transparent. When a potential customer says, can you guarantee it won’t be wrong? Well no, the only guarantees in life are the proverbial death and taxes. A great video James.
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Paul!
@tonydacosta98833 жыл бұрын
"Oh my gawd!" Arthur Daley would turn in his grave to hear such honesty whilst selling cars, but he was fictional whilst you, good sir, are a living legend!! Stay true, stay honest to yourself and others and the "world's your lobster" Much of what you said here is SO true.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Tony
@Banglish1233 жыл бұрын
🤣No this ones not for sale, 'er indoors is' avin it. 6oclock? Meet me outside the Winchester and I might let you have it.
@mattclark76343 жыл бұрын
@@Banglish123 lol
@mattclark76343 жыл бұрын
lol
@tonydacosta98833 жыл бұрын
@@Banglish123 lmfao 😂🤣
@daveys2 жыл бұрын
The car isn’t the problem, it’s the expectations of customers and their attitude. Whenever I buy a car, I just have a look over it, have a drive but I always assume that I’m going to have to put money into it because cars nearly always need something doing, particularly if it’s 10yrs+ old.
@steveduggan80533 жыл бұрын
It’s so refreshing to hear what dealers have to put up with all the time. I once had a guy wanting to look at a bright yellow 5.0l Mustang convertible that I had on the pitch. His first question was “how big is the boot, and what’s the fuel economy like?” To which replied “small and horrendous” He just stood there open mouthed looking at me. I then said “if boot size and fuel economy are important to you, this is the wrong car!”
@factorylad50712 жыл бұрын
It's not the sort of thing you would want to drive with a lead boot anyway.
@johnstairs2 жыл бұрын
I once had a customer ask me would his golf clubs and trolley fit in the boot of a Mazda MX5. I replied have you ever thought about taking up darts!!
@Frankl2042 жыл бұрын
I have been buying used minis for over 10 years and this car looks very clean and a great price! I would also say the salesman has a very honest and respectful attitude. For what’s it’s worth I would love to deal with such salesman in the future.
@7omly3 жыл бұрын
If only there were more honest car dealers like you then buying a used car wouldn't be such an unpleasant experience.
@trevor31043 жыл бұрын
Couldn’t agree more mate
@antanasrapkevicius38972 жыл бұрын
if all the dealers were like that, you would never own any car as all of them would just talk you out of owning one. All cars will break down and all will cost money to maintain. period
@willie5493 ай бұрын
One off
@aveedub74033 жыл бұрын
Brilliant dealer! Honesty & patience is fantastic, the temptation to put the phone down must've been very tempting!
@simondrake89093 жыл бұрын
tales like this are so familiar to me, people with champagne taste but lemonade money.... I don't miss selling cars at all...
@derf94652 жыл бұрын
🤣 😂 🤣 😂 🤣 lovely point of view so true.
@rickyrickardo83472 жыл бұрын
I SD cars for 12 years. It amazes me how uneducated people can be. They don't want the truth, they want you to tell them what they want to hear.
@Rosscogalli812 жыл бұрын
Your honesty on the video has meant you'll be the first dealer I consider when looking for a new car! So refreshing to see (and rare)!
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Very kind of you!
@Tommy_Mac2 жыл бұрын
Yep. Mechanic for almost 50 years here. My sister always asked my opinion, then doesn't listen to me. I stopped repairing her rides for free after she bought the second oil-gushing Range Rover. I think they just want a positive affirmation for their bad decisions, then play the victim card.
@Amazingfeet2 жыл бұрын
My sisters are the same 🤣🤣
@chrissammels5444 Жыл бұрын
Well said.
@Ohne_Silikone2 жыл бұрын
I cought myself once drooling over one. Then one of the salesmen working there walked by and told me it is not worth it and to stick with the Toyota I had. Quite the sobering experience.
@lynby62314 ай бұрын
The Peugeot/BMW vvt engine was rubbish and the gearboxes were chocolate, I wouldn’t touch one with a barge pole
@huwjones58793 жыл бұрын
I admire your honesty. These older Cooper S models both, Gen1 and Gen2, are now at the stage where they are really only suitable for those who are able/prepared to do their own maintenance and repairs. Mini parts are cheap, its the labour that is going to cost. It would be very easy to spend more than the car is worth. Sell it as a 'trade sale' sold as seen with no warranty. I have a 2004 R53 which I've 'saved', spent hours taking it all apart to put stuff right, its not difficult but it is time consuming. And fun!
@TheGunner95457 ай бұрын
I had no idea what I was buying when during covid, I got a 2010 R56 with only 76k miles on it. Good looking and clean car. Within 1500 miles, timing chain went. Then 4 months later, the AC compressor went. Then the clutch. All within 6 months. Due to cost, I did the timing chain and clutch myself with the help of KZbin. 2 months ago I got the dreaded oil leak that ended up being the turbi feed line. Dealer wanted $2044 for that repair and the seal. Both parts were about $50, so I did that myself as well. Still love the car to death but I have so much money in it, I have to keep it running.
@David-fj5lz7 ай бұрын
Wait until you get electric problems just like stopping on a motorway which happened go my granddaughter suddenly but she got ii re-started but was never the same and now despite various indorcgiond by her father who is a motor engjneedz and his friend who had a garage could not find the 0:30 fault and was sold on but is still too dangerous to drive
@TheFlyingBusman3 жыл бұрын
Shocking engines on the coopers which in turn are shared with Peugeot in the 207GTi. Expect gummed up inlet ports, fuel pump issues but the worst has to be the garbage timing chain and guides which can fail under 40k miles. Avoid like the plague.
@anxiousmindmusic9 күн бұрын
Only until '10
@nickdavis84673 жыл бұрын
James, I think you are one of the most honest car dealers I have come across and good on you for letting possible customers know the pitfalls or possible pitfalls IF they buy a particular car, I recently purchased a lovely car, infact my dream car (Lexus LS430) otherwise I would most definately have had a look at your stock. Keep up the great work buddy "thumbs up"
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Had a LS430 as a company car probably best car I ever had
@terryatkinson8993 жыл бұрын
That's a dream car for me too, so quiet and well made. My old boss had the first one of those in Ireland as he saw them in Japan and he said they were going to give Mercedes a run for their money.... he also bought a Nissan skyline and we never even heard of them then. An absolute rocket of a car.
@armchairgeneralissimo3 жыл бұрын
@@terryatkinson899 I got paid to drive a Nissan GTR during my time driving cars from We buy to BCA, it hands down trumped all the AMG Mercs and Aston Martins I've driven.
@Pete-wk7pf3 жыл бұрын
Years ago, I had an LS400 - absolutely bomb proof and they gave lifetime breakdown cover in the certain knowledge it would never be used, 😂
@euanscotland3 жыл бұрын
I bought my dream car recently, as much as I love it. And I do... as soon as I bought it it left a small hole in my life 🙃
@RichieRouge2062 жыл бұрын
You have hit the nail on the head. People’s expectations are so high these days, directly influenced by these endless bloody 3 year finance deals. These days it’s everyone else’s fault but theirs. It’s the same with people who object and moan about paying for servicing when a car is made up of thousands of moving parts! Of course they will wear and break. I work at Copart and the number of perfectly decent cars that are jettisoned because they are seen as old and unreliable (a 6 year old Civic) - the mind boggles.
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Yep throw away society
@simonthomas53673 жыл бұрын
Had mine since 2013 and still love it!! It's regularly serviced by BMW. A few minor repairs last service. Brake pads changed. Tyres changed. But nothing shocking. A cracking little car.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
I think it's all about the care
@christianjadot44597 ай бұрын
As a Mini Owner, I love it. It was my first, and only, new car. (Meaning with 0 miles off the Mini dealers lot.) Brakes go quick. You should change the plugs and coils fairly regularly. It does burn through oil, but don't add to much. (Or you will be changing the plugs and coils.) And lastly it takes a surprising amount of labor to get to any of the accessories. Oh ... and the computer is very particular and will shut the car down if anything is out of whack. Still a really fun car to drive.
@ZeroStatic2 жыл бұрын
You sir are a true gentlemen, the industry needs more of your kind. Thanks so much for your honesty and integrity.
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@gregwalker86122 жыл бұрын
Thanks for an honest and informative video. I find it very refreshing that you've made a simple, five minute video that discusses an important topic that is actually relevant to common car purchasers. I'm a mechanic and I can relate about people wanting you to lie to them. I had a fellow contact me yesterday and asking if it's ok to drive his van around town even though it's leaking coolant from a cracked radiator I checked out last week. SMH! 😣
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Omg people are classic. Cheers
@petelivingstone51293 жыл бұрын
Well done for your honesty. That is not the car for inexperienced driver. That would have come back to you in the future, you did the right thing
@allosaurusfragilis77822 жыл бұрын
I remember when I worked for bsm decades ago, teaching a fairly wild 17 girl to drive. I was constantly trying to slow her down. She had a Renault 5 to practise in, fair enough. So, one day we finish at her ranch style bungalow, with several cars parked....and there's a capri 2.8 sitting there...brand new. Wow, I said, dad's treating himself! Oh no, that's for me, when I pass my test, she replies. I was speechless.
@Broomehall3 жыл бұрын
I've done this professionally myself for over 35yrs, what you say is so incredibly spot on, I've lost count of the amount of people who say to me " Are you trying to put me off" to which I always reply " Not at all, I'm trying to get you to understand exactly what you're buying" that way I have, and continue to have very few unsatisfied customers ..... Which is why if ever there are any problems the public will always start their sentence with the immortilised words " This car you SOLD me" rather than " This car I purchased" ...... as for Cooper S, ton of problems that will need sorting at some point, comes with the territory, whereas early 2007 / 08 / 09/ and some early 2010's diesels were capable of phenomenal mileage and pretty much bullet proof, sadly it all went downhill on the later BMW engines from 2010/11 onwards and why the classifieds are littered with " non runners and those needing complete engines " ..... good post though, and that old saying is quite correct .... The truth hurts.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Cheers bud
@gemdriving3 жыл бұрын
Well, I had 5 Mini’s, did over 600,000 miles in them, never had a timing chain & never used a drop of oil, the only thing I had to replace were the anti roll bar bushes & they were done under warranty. One of them had 200,000 miles on it, & it still drove like new.
@sarahsue40652 жыл бұрын
Not a drop of oil ? 🤔😂
@Howie577 ай бұрын
But was it a Cooper 's'
@CheshireCars3 жыл бұрын
You deserve every sale you do. Listening to potential clients you engage with have expectations of younger lower mileage vehicles. You are absolutely correct in dealing the way that you do. Respect.
@claudiojunior96189 ай бұрын
When a dealer tells me how wonderful the car is i usually walk away. Dealers lie as much as politicians. You seem an alright chap.
@trustyourgut5092 Жыл бұрын
Being open, honest and transparent, keeps one's conscious guilt free.
@Hoodedclaw103 жыл бұрын
2 months ago bought a 60 plate Mini with 127,000 miles on the clock that came in as a trade in. Looked after by its previous owners it defies its mileage and runs sweet ( so far now on 129,500 miles ) but I am under no illusion that someday it could cost serious money to fix. Brand new ones go wrong even before they are in the hands of the owners!
@bulldurham24652 жыл бұрын
Over 135,000 on mine...hope no jinx.
@Hoodedclaw102 жыл бұрын
@@bulldurham2465 we have just clicked over 134k this week. Engine still strong, bit of a suspension knock though sure its something basic
@designtime34693 жыл бұрын
I had a Mini Clubman D 4 years 100,000 miles no problems Had to go because the clutch wore out and the replacement with a duel mass flywheel was more than its value. We loved that little car!
@hondamarsh65043 жыл бұрын
I would never get into a conversation about common problems as any vehicle has these. If they are that concerned then they are probably timewasters anyway.
@TheBornGamer2 жыл бұрын
Great video, and you summarise very well the main problem of this 'heart over head' mentality. The problem is now, if somebody buys a car without understanding the possible costs, it falls on the dealership/salesperson, totally ridiculous. The law allows customers to act like babies, that's why I moved to selling vans. You can be honest, you can prep well, and if anything does go wrong, nobody comes knocking.
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Great point!
@richardgreenwood33553 жыл бұрын
The problem is that many of the people buying a £3000 mini will be young adults with limited budgets and, as you say, this is probably not the car for them. You need someone who can view this as an affordable toy; who isn't going to be relying on it for getting to work and who can accept and absorb a certain amount of age-related cost. Someone in their 50s a bit like me I suppose.... except that I don't want a Mini!
@ZippletTech2 жыл бұрын
Honesty is the best policy and I'm glad you are honest!! I don't understand why people buying used cars can't understand that they WILL incur costs more often than a brand new car. I bought a 2006 Clio from a used car dealer super cheap who was honest about the poor condition it was in - "it's a runner but no guarentees after a year, she needs some work - but no rust or major concerns". Totally happy with that advice and got it for a bargain price. Spent a bit more at another honest garage after a year to have things serviced and fixed, now runs great and have been told it'll last. Still a bargain all costs considered.
@Masatao12 жыл бұрын
I heard even buying a brand new mini without a extended warranty is chance, that is why I stay far far away from the Mini in general.
@Garffey3 жыл бұрын
You are so refreshingly honest James....Many others wouldn't be and that's credit to you. My stepfather said 'buy second hand and buy someone else's troubles'.....It stood me in good stead over the years.
@SalimKhan-gk1fh3 жыл бұрын
I learnt my lesson years ago not to try and advise the customer that my car is not suitable for them . these days I will not get involved even though they are probably buying the wrong car for themselves or their children, people don’t want honesty They just wanna come along see a shiny car which they think in their own minds are suitable for their own use. So I really wouldn’t get involved anymore they’ve done their homework they know what car they want let them buy it! Look at the big dealerships they will sell the younger person a car which is not suitable for them at all but it has the biggest profit in for themselves
@alejandropalazonurtubi35203 жыл бұрын
Maibe a good strategy in the short term, but in the middle-long term I have my doubts, a happy customer, would come back to buy more cars from you and they tell all their family and friends about you, an unhappy customer would do just the opposite.
@ianelliott2298 ай бұрын
Please keep up the honesty! You are a dealer for car addicts like me - and people who probably wouldn’t buy a Mini Cooper S of that age if they didn’t have a contingency fund for it
@bordersw12393 жыл бұрын
Every couple of years for 30 years, my father in law would ring me up - I’ve seen a car, can you come with me and check it out. As someone that doesn’t know too much about cars, my blood would run cold. Can’t even go into the full list of problems I’ve found - like 4 years missing history, crappy oil etc, if it looks shiny and inside looks nice, he’ll buy the bloody thing! Off we go having just bought another 14 year old Range Rover, Discovery etc. Finally, after 30 years, he’s just done a PCP-on a brand new Skoda, can’t explain the relief I feel!
@terryatkinson8993 жыл бұрын
I know enough about cars but there's always the possibility of buying a dud... 3 things I say to someone, have you got the money? Know what you need carwise? Checked out the insurance? Nothing worse than trying to buy a car for a dreamer who's wasting everyone's time.
@armchairgeneralissimo3 жыл бұрын
14 year old Range Rovers... Your dad is far braver than me with money.
@bordersw12393 жыл бұрын
@@armchairgeneralissimo . I know, to be fair, engines and gearboxes have been OK, problems mostly suspension, reverse camera and electrics. Constant brakes and tyres too!
@thetechlibrarian3 ай бұрын
You’re 100% correct not only do they not want you to be honest they are completely unable to have a nuanced conversation you tell them they’re gonna need a contingency fund for repairs. They don’t even want to hear about budgeting for basics.
@kageyme81093 жыл бұрын
As soon as she started saying what you should do to it , then you should have just said NO . This car is not suitable and you wont sell it to them . Just look at the hassle before they've even bought it , can you imagine the grief after they bought it EVERY WEEK !! Just say NO THANKYOU !!
@christianmorrison164 Жыл бұрын
Hats off to you for being honest. Agree with your approach 100% and wish all dealers were completely honest so buyers can make an informed decision.
@davidellis2793 жыл бұрын
I’ve bought a couple of these Minis from BCA and had my fingers seriously burnt,you are right to bring these issues to the customers attention but as you say people Don’t want to hear it,after the gearbox problems I have had I avoid them like the plague,I cannot believe BMW are the parent company allowing Junk like this to be built in their name. Your right put it in your wife’s name and sell it privately later,they can be horrendously expensive to repair,it’s like playing Russian Roulette with 5 bullets in the gun and one empty chamber,your a brave man selling one of these that old and giving a 6month warranty on it but everyone knows their own business best,I just won’t take the risk with them anymore.
@generalzod79593 жыл бұрын
I'd advise to stay away from all German cars.
@TheAllEngineering2 жыл бұрын
Keeping a European car on the road, particularly German ones, is like playing whack a mole. Every time that you fix something then another issue pops up.
@markfox15452 жыл бұрын
I agree, you don't need to take the risk with them any more, you need to spend time learning how to contract you are to you're.
@factorylad50712 жыл бұрын
You will be glad to know that there is a quick fix to this problem. Join up with breakdown nationwide recovery and go everywhere on the back of a trailer.
@davidellis2792 жыл бұрын
@@factorylad5071 It still doesn’t cover the cost of replacing the gearbox but I see where your coming from,I’m a trader and as I have said previously I will Never buy a Mini from BCA or anyone else again to sell after the problems I’ve had with the others I’ve sold,once bitten is enough for me,total junk one thing after another but those gearbox’s are something else.
@vikash19743 жыл бұрын
Refreshing attitude and very true. Its not just cars, those having junk food don't want to know how bad it is for you etc. I remember telling a customer ready to buy a digi camera early 2000s, I told him about having to get rechargeable batteries and a memory card as well which put him off, and got told off by my boss.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Yep I can see that happening in a retail environment.
@debbiepeter1123 жыл бұрын
It's funny isnt it. Cooper S as a 1st car is insane. I own a 2001 Cooper and am part of several car groups. It's amazing how many times 1st time buyers join the group and say they want a 1st or 2nd Gen Mini. Every group member talks them out of it. These cars are not 1st time owner cars because they are so expensive to keep and need more maintenance than alot of other cars which are more suitable as a 1st car. Glad you talked her out of it though.
@Bambotb2 жыл бұрын
From 2014 onwards they're reliable
@georgevavoulis47582 жыл бұрын
Thank you for being so HONEST!!!😇👍🇨🇦 Cheers from Canada
@paulbushell32793 жыл бұрын
Think you've made some valid points I've had new cars and had a couple of nightmares. So I certainly wouldn't expect a second hand car with the mileage and age to be problem free. To be honest I think your more than honest and fair, more patient than I would probably be.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Hard sometimes bud
@Rjhs0012 жыл бұрын
You are the kind of dealer I love. I know a bit about cars and mechanicals but your straightforwardness is great to hear. I've just subscribed.
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Thank you
@chasleask85333 жыл бұрын
When I sold guitars , one guy wanted to trade in his old one for a new one . When it came down to it , he wanted new guitar price for his old one , and old guitar price for the new one . "You don't deserve to be in business " , he said ,as I threw him out .
@greva29043 жыл бұрын
Did he play Stairway to Heaven while he was in the shop?!
@RealButcher2 жыл бұрын
Grev A Hahahahhaa,, that's sooo forbidden... LOL
@chasleask85332 жыл бұрын
@@greva2904 Smoke on the water . On one string.
@DM-wp9vq2 жыл бұрын
Depends on the old guitar. If we're talking about an old, perfect condition Les Paul for a cheap new Fender, then snag it up. If it's apples to apples (a 5 year old beaten up Fender for a new one) then dude was on crack.
@alfsmith49362 жыл бұрын
"Hey I've got a Gibson Les Paul to trade" Pulls out Epiphone LP special.. "But it clearly says 'By Gibson' on the truss rod cover.. No.. How about this limited edition 50th anniversary Squire by Fender Stratocaster that's the same as the one Jimi Hendrix used to play?... It's not knackered. It's reliced and Jimi liked high action.. There's a 1962 one on Ebay for £25.000 right now!.... I've got a vintage Marshall Valvestate and Vox Cambridge that looks the same as the Beatles ones in the boot too.. There's no need to be like that.. I payed a lot of money new for these!.. OK, I'll put them back on Ebay then.."
@mrdave7775 ай бұрын
I’ve strictly purchased Japanese my entire 59 years. Why would I change?
@timegan11853 жыл бұрын
I've got 2 Mini Cooper S's on 54 and 05 plates the 05 with 81k on the clock never had any trouble the 54 has 48k and needed a complete engine rebuild due to the supercharger running dry, you just can't tell with these cars when they'll go!
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Very true bud
@trevor31043 жыл бұрын
Supercharger not on service list with mini either, even though it has a screw in plug to top up oil,,,,,in a service
@TheAdamRawks2 жыл бұрын
Engine rebuild for a dry Supercharger? You got done!
@timegan11852 жыл бұрын
@@TheAdamRawks I was told due to the supercharger running dry a piston blew through the block, which it did, but I don't know if that was the direct cause its what the mechanic told me
@FreeLancerLondon2 жыл бұрын
I bought a nearly new mini cooper from a main dealer 19 years ago. It was a nightmare. The steering was out, three run flat tires went pop at £160 each, the radiator leaked almost stranding me on a busy motorway and the brake warning light was on consistently with no brake problems. One of the worst modern cars I've ever owned. Bought a year old 1.8 petrol TT. Never had a problem. I've now had it for seven years. Fantastic to drive, very practical and great fun. Live and learn. 🙂👍
@myevado10 күн бұрын
I have a 2014 Mini Clubman s and the brake warning light is on. I thought it was the E brake but oil change guy said he would have smelled the heat if I drove it that far with it on. I just bought it on auction and now a bit nervous even though we will be towing it behind a MH and using it for grocery/restaurant runs maybe some sight seeing. What did they figure out about the brake light? Sensor?
@jamespadbury43023 жыл бұрын
As a 2007 mini owner I can confirm that require constant attention, but boy when they behave what a grin factor they have. If I was looking for another I’d bite your hand off. 👍👍. Keep up the good work.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Brilliant drive aren't they. Many thanks
@HarrisRallying3 жыл бұрын
You are bang on with what you are saying - there’s always a gamble - mileage and service history help - bought one of these for £125 as a none runner put anew engine in for a total cost of £300 - there are tonnes of pitfalls and the quality is terrible - you have to be handy on the tools - good for being honest - shame the customers are not doing the research !!
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Cheers Pete
@bryandavies60743 жыл бұрын
BMW/Rover and the timing chain for life. It is true though. When it goes the engine life is over. My Rover 75 diesel went at 204k miles - no noise - no warning. Great video. You're right and deserve to do well.
@recall28802 жыл бұрын
Did it have regular oil changes ?
@bryandavies60742 жыл бұрын
@@recall2880 Of course. With the correct oil, a new filter and within the service schedule. Why did you ask?
@recall28802 жыл бұрын
@@bryandavies6074 Out of sheer interest in engines that’s all. No offence meant :)
@bryandavies60742 жыл бұрын
@@recall2880 None taken. The concept of a cam chain and tensioner/follower set that lasts forever is one I find implausible. So did Land Rover in their use of the same engine. But not MG Rover.
@samsara36943 жыл бұрын
You are so right. In the past, on the occasions of selling my car or bikes (as a private person, not a business) I have been totally open about their history and condition, having factored these into the price range. And even though the history and condition has always more than stacked up against the competition, I realise that my honesty rarely paid. I have come to the point that whilst I won't lie about a vehicle I'll be much more hesitant about pointing out any small issues or pitfalls with-it, certainly without being asked first.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Yes unfortunately you have to be that way
@simsyonline3 жыл бұрын
A litre of oil every 1K miles... from new!! I find that astounding!
@MrMatthewkirby3 жыл бұрын
That’s why we have global warming burning all that oil
@millimetreperfect3 жыл бұрын
We had an 85ton Caterpillar excavator some years ago and it would need topping up with engine oil regularly. I complained to the dealer who said it would be within specification if it used up to 1% oil to fuel consumption. Bare in mind it used around 1000 litres of diesel per day, that means it could use 10 litres of oil and the dealer would just shrug it of as okay. My point is I think they set these limits sky high so it is never their problem.
@jrd332 жыл бұрын
Friend of mine has a Golf GTI that drinks oil but seems fine in every other respect. Dunno why...
@laverdajota808920 күн бұрын
I still don’t understand how experienced car manufacturers still produce cars with major issues like timing chains , who the hell is in charge of design and quality in these companies.
@davidwilliams58633 жыл бұрын
OMG you are a rare breed, car dealer which shares the pros & cons of buying second hand 😊 Good on you 👌
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Thank you
@markoasdadriver62853 жыл бұрын
I use to run a at home business, beating everyone's prices with the highest quality and materials, but after 7rs my business failed... the reason... I'm to cheap, their must be a reason why? Yes, I've no overheads, it's just me at my home. Should've ripped them off, but couldn't bring myself to do it. Your a star for succeeding when I failed⭐
@wolvoman13 жыл бұрын
Honest guy, good warranty, fair prices, what more do they want.
@usuallyfixingtinkering3 жыл бұрын
I reallty respect your honesty as a dealer, this is something I've not encounteredI love your explaination of why dealers sometimes have to lie and exagerate otherwise sales would'nt go through in many cases! I think it comes down to education and cultural issues. Cars have never been more reliable and people have become so used to that level of reliability most don't think twice about the amount of moving parts and potential issues as a car ages. You just get in turn the key and go, but one day it doesn't and its like the whole world is collapsing the way people react! Progress in the world of cars has created this expectation, I'm sure you'll remmember back 20/30 years plus that a car that got to its 10th birthday was very rare! Too high an expectation it seems.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Well my daily is 50 yrs old lol!!
@usuallyfixingtinkering3 жыл бұрын
@@ChopsGarage I know! - but how many times has that MGB been rebuilt to get there lol! Fabulous car, up until a few years ago my dad had a rare 73 MGB GT Automatic. Less of a full sporty experience but very smooth and great in town! Great to see your using yours instead of being a museum piece like most!
@broomad3 жыл бұрын
People !!!! They all want something for nothing and when it goes wrong they want someone else to blame. AAAgggghhhhh
@marklawrence24173 жыл бұрын
My wife has a R56 JCW & daughter a R56 Cooper S, both have had no issues - probably as they were & are now being maintained correctly - ie oil checks at least once a month & servicing. Most scare stories for cars seem to come from the US where they just drive until warning lights come on & no stringent annual MOT type checks in most states meaning they just drive them to death...
@daxxr25323 жыл бұрын
I have owned the same cooper s for 12 years, yes there are common faults but overall they are great cars - if maintained correctly
@TheAdamRawks2 жыл бұрын
This!
@tomctutor3 жыл бұрын
Your little Mini+ looks like a good deal, considering the price of cars in general these days. With your advice and a trustworthy garage she could keep that going for many years. Optionally just buy her daughter a brand new Mini Clubman for £20,000 which will need servicing anyway !
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Exactly
@jorgschneider49072 жыл бұрын
Same story in Germany. Sad to say that but you are right! I Miss the old Cars, there you only had to keep an eye on the oil, if the ignition works well and if there is enough petrol in the tank 😬 for example an 90s Toyota Corolla or Carina!
@tonyc28373 жыл бұрын
That’s one of the reasons cars depreciate as they get older . When a person buys a vehicle considerably less than its new original price , they should factor in wear and tear repair costs . Or they should buy brand new at a massive premium.
@worldhello12342 жыл бұрын
The BMW Mini is not exactly the pinnacle of reliability or budget repair bills . 🥳
@colincampbell39372 жыл бұрын
@@worldhello1234 look
@topgazza7 ай бұрын
Your approach is the correct one. To be applauded. Great job
@smoothmicra3 жыл бұрын
Funny that so many people will rush into buying a car with little or no research, and little or no idea about whether the vehicle is suitable for them. For most of us it is the second most expensive purchase other than the home, so do your homework and think about what you want...rather than being a tyre kicking time waster!
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Trouble is they want to do no homework and make a dealer 100% responsible. Like most things in life now you are not expected to be responsible for your decisions
@DougStaples-j8r9 күн бұрын
I fully approve of your business ethics. If the Buyer accepts all the warnings then they own the grief when it goes wrong, - if however they can claim that they were lied to, they can play the victim later rather than accept they made a bad decision.
@ChopsGarage8 күн бұрын
Cheers
@adrianmoore28493 жыл бұрын
Being honest can cost you a fortune.I consider myself an honest estate agent and apart from peace of mind it gets you nowhere.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Very true!
@bonvoyage53773 жыл бұрын
Honest estate agent!!! thats a contradiction in terms
@MrGearoid656 ай бұрын
You're an honest auto dealer. Much respect to you. I think that if a car that old, has just a 6 months warranty, then I should expect costs after the 6th month so it wouldn't be for me. People tend NOT to follow the correct service intervals for whatever reason and expect a car to run forever without looking after it. Usually, I feel it's a toss-up between a newer car and a bigger loan OR an older car, no loan, but a slush fund for repairs required. It's one or the other. 😊
@mowfaux86203 жыл бұрын
The Wife bought a 9 year old mini a few years back. Boy was I glad when we got rid, nothing but trouble and a money pit. I new at that age it would need some money spent on it but was never prepared for the amount of problems it had in the 18 months she owned it. When the car was running fine it was a pleasure to drive and the funny thing is the Wife still says it's her favourite car she's ever owned.
@LOTPOR04023 жыл бұрын
It was a used vehicle , any vehicle thats had a hard life can give problems .Always look for service history and more important a folder full of bills
@generalzod79593 жыл бұрын
@@LOTPOR0402 not all cars are equal. Minis are terrible cars. Avoid. Avoid. Avoid.
@LOTPOR04023 жыл бұрын
@@generalzod7959 Na you bought a bad one
@generalzod79592 жыл бұрын
@@LOTPOR0402 I've never bought one at all. If you really want to know which cars hold up, check out their resale values. Poorly designed vehicles see their resale values drop like a stone. And minis get really cheap when they're off warranty.
@trqster3 ай бұрын
Why are used cars so damn cheap in the UK!? In other European countries that car would be with 3x that much!
@mhk2263 жыл бұрын
Probably the nicest decent car dealer in the UK
@rolandcook255610 ай бұрын
Absolutely. It’s called perception bias and we want our perception re-enforced. This is because if it’s challenged, that suggests we could be wrong about things, and we don’t like that.
@ChopsGarage10 ай бұрын
I like it "perception bias" explains it perfectly
@dougedwardsyachts3 жыл бұрын
All cars depreciate in value and cost money to keep going including the annual MOT tax. The internet can always stop a nervous customer buying if they dig deep. Nice little Mini, always fancied the supercharged S myself.
@johnbrookes15662 жыл бұрын
I was a salesman for over 40 years your comment's are spot on they only here what they want to here then when something goes wrong it's the salesperson fault we always took the procedure as buyers are liars 🤔
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
First thing I was taught in my early 20s by a 70yr old salesman bud
@imonlytellingthetruth65623 жыл бұрын
I would suggest you don’t go into too much depth in your selling, sometimes too much information is dangerous, Your so correct no one wants honesty but I would buy a car from you no problem.
@mickeymini95222 жыл бұрын
BMW/Mini used a PSA Group engine in the Gen2 mini which is prone to many issues - you've mentioned timing chain as the common issue on the Cooper S, but across the range there are a number of other common issues, including thermostat housing, cross over tube, coolant pump, coil packs and these are not high mileage/age related, typically failing within the first 50,000 miles/six years. Now the oil consumption issue can be fixed - you need to replace the factory fitted 'single piece' oil control rings with '3 piece' oil control rings. Not something anyone will want to do unless there is pressing reason to take the head off.
@Elvis_TheKing3 жыл бұрын
The lady’s daughter would have been far better off with the blue Aygo. Much more suitable for a new driver - and best of all, it’s a Toyota.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
100% agree
@51StPi3 жыл бұрын
@@ChopsGarage I don't even need a car but I keep looking at these, but I keep going to myself nah, get a Yaris, then I am back to the cycle of I don't need a car, I'm your worst nightmare if I ring you up.
@JP.7083 жыл бұрын
Correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't the Aygo have a Peugeot/Citroen engine.
@Elvis_TheKing3 жыл бұрын
@@JP.708 The petrol engines in the Aygo/C1/107 are Toyota units. The diesels are PSA group.
@beano64522 жыл бұрын
@@JP.708 the R56 MINI COOPER S shares its engine with the Peugeot 207 GTI from the same era I believe.
@harryscott27682 жыл бұрын
James, you’re a breath of fresh air. You’re right about the rose tinting of potential purchasers glasses! Well done sir.
@ChopsGarage2 жыл бұрын
Thanks Harry
@paulneilson28903 жыл бұрын
Generally that mini would have had the chain and tensioner done on warranty from the manufacturer, hence it's not a problem. They need the fluids checking regularly but are a fantastic reliable car otherwise. This one looks to be a great buy to me! Rare thing honesty !!
@ferrumignis2 жыл бұрын
MINI's are not particularly reliable cars in general, they almost invariably fall into the lower half of the reliability indexes (along with their parent company BMW). The Prince engine used in the Cooper S is particularly notorious, as well as timing chain issues and oil consumption problems it also suffers from inlet valve and port carbon fouling.
@bunston100014 күн бұрын
Nothing really changes over the years. I remember passing my driving test, nearly fifty years ago now. Of course, I was more than eager to get my first car. My first car was a `C’ reg. Austin Mini, 850. What I really wanted, was a Cooper`S’. But, my Dad tried telling me about the pitfalls of such a car. Maintenance wasn’t such a problem, as my Dad was a very competent, home mechanic. He told me, running costs in comparison of an 850 to a 1275 Cooper would be significantly higher. He tried to point out, Insurance, tyre and fuel costs would greatly add to my running costs. And of course, he was absolutely right. I was an apprentice electrician at the time, so my pay wasn’t exactly brilliant, and running an 850 Mini, did just about give me a life. But like your customers in your video,………I had to have. I eventually, ended up with a Snowberry White, with black roof, 1970, 1275 c.c. Mini Cooper `S’. Was my Dad right? You bet your life he was, everything, but everything he said, all came true. Thankfully, the bank of Mum & Dad was around then. Lessons learned, as you tried explaining, a Mini, isn’t just a Mini, the variants of the many models today, are indeed very different. I found out the hard way…….I wish I had that Mini Cooper today though, hindsight is a wonderful thing. A very nice entertaining and very honest video. Thank you, I will look out for more of your videos.👍
@stephenrowley41713 жыл бұрын
If the lady had brought for her daughter I would doubt would break down while she's driving because it would be written off long before then. 180bhp for a 1st time driver is mental
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Agreed!
@AmirChemE Жыл бұрын
Minis are cheaply made cars but sold at a premium.
@filipwennergren27123 жыл бұрын
Love your honesty. More of that please!
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Thank you
@mickj.1473 жыл бұрын
I appreciate the honesty and can see that your very sincere. The other issue apart from the buyer/customer is the warranty sold with the majority of second hand cars. Warranty firm's will try and weasel their way out of any and every issue and aren't really worth the paper their written on.
@terryatkinson8993 жыл бұрын
Customer would have been better off with the Dacia as a first car, cheap cheerful and worth bugger all
@tonybuttie30383 жыл бұрын
or Hyundai i10 or i20, i used to run a Hyundia Accent i got for almost free, i had it 2yrs always worked, it only stopped due to the front l/h Suspension arm rusting away. as i was many miles from home i couldn't fix it, i forced drove it to a scrap yard 1 mile away and the guy gave me £50 for it, so i could get home on the train. RIP Hyundai
@thornbird67683 жыл бұрын
Daughter should be looking at a Ford , easy repairs , cheaper to run , why does she need 1.4 engine ? It’s a first car !
@terryatkinson8993 жыл бұрын
@@thornbird6768 Ford ain't that cheap anymore. The 1.4 dacia isn't that powerful plus it's that new, repair won't be needed unless she bangs it off something.
@beano64522 жыл бұрын
@@thornbird6768 but the mini looks nice. Not wanting to be sexist, that’s all some women care about.
@richardpeachey11032 ай бұрын
Fella you have the patience of a saint, I personally have had one of these for TEN years and so much fun. This one uses NO oil and handles like a dream . As for wear and tear I suppose that depends on how you drive it,
@brucegordon79883 жыл бұрын
I had one of these from new. It was a great drive, but it had major engine problems throughout my ownership. When it was working it was brilliant! Your car looks great. 3k is a steal.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Cheers Bruce
@LearnAboutFlow2 жыл бұрын
Best (true) used car story I ever heard was from decades ago. A woman went to a dealer and was looking at this used Toyota Tercel. She wanted a manual, but the car was a 4MT. She asked the dealer, seriously, if he could put a 5MT into the car. The dealer said no problem, told her to come back the next day, and sold the car to her. What did the dealer do? He swapped the gear knob with one that showed 5 speeds, not 4. The woman never came back to complain, probably too embarrassed as to how stupid she was.
@pdtech45243 жыл бұрын
Not an ideal first car by any stretch of the imagination, what are people thinking?
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
No idea
@selfdriven13433 жыл бұрын
Great video. The reality is, there is not a single car without any issues. I have seen brand new cars spending more time in shops than on the road while old cars being more or less bulletproof and vice versa. However, everything will break eventually, but when it comes to cars, today's society is not willing to accept that.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Well said!
@SeriousAboutSalvage3 жыл бұрын
Been watching a few of your video's recently. Interesting stuff really liking your content. Nice honest chap, GL with the channel 👍
@markfox15452 жыл бұрын
Video's 🤣🤣🤣
@hannchris27623 жыл бұрын
Hi Janes your honesty knows no limits you are an absolute gentleman I salute you
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Hann
@tedrobley15293 жыл бұрын
I see you went past the Aygo to the 500 as once you get your head round how basic they are. Nothing goes wrong!!!
@recall28802 жыл бұрын
You’d recccomend a 500?
@ferrumignis2 жыл бұрын
@@recall2880 He's saying the Aygo's are reliable because they are quite basic so less to go wrong. 500's are ok but can suffer from the issues covered in the video.
@recall28802 жыл бұрын
@@ferrumignis who cares about realisable. They are both girls cars. Unless you’re gay
@monxmarx Жыл бұрын
I would love a video where you talk about buying used cars, advice and tips etc, especially hatchbacks. You’re so honest!
@Manager_Mister3 жыл бұрын
If the factory already said up front you must put a litre of oil per 1k miles, that should tell you it is junk. I can promise you, it will break and cost you a fortune to maintain.
@ChopsGarage3 жыл бұрын
No doubt but to be fair most 14yr old cars do
@Manager_Mister3 жыл бұрын
@@ChopsGarage Not every 14 year old car does. I have 16 year old honda van that doesn't. I had a 25 year old Plymouth with over 250k never burned oil. And that was a Plymouth. Just poor quality and design. Stick with japanese, and she will be better off.
@hannukoivistoinen9262 жыл бұрын
I have had mostly japanese cars. Some quot old but not single one of them used oil. Not even the Corolla Gti that was really driven Hard.
@CrowsAreMurderАй бұрын
@@hannukoivistoinen926 NEVER routinely had to put oil in any Japanese car I have owned, Acura, Toyotas, Honda I changed the oil every 5-7k American miles and they simply rarely ever needed oil between changing.
@ps360813 жыл бұрын
Well said at the end!!! Majority of the public don't want to hear the truth, just the everything is fine. When I was giving car advice to my sister to replace her Micra She was like she has a friend who work at BCA and other friends who know about cars in other words saying her friends know more than her brother who has been fixed bits on her car and my own......but her friends were also giving advice based on their circumstances rather than my sisters. I don't work in the car sector but I like my motors and stuff. No point saying a £5k car is good when you can't afford that budget. In the end my choice of Hyundai i30 (57 plate) was the best pick. She bought that in 2019. For her it's a good solid reliable economical car which is holding its value well. Cheap to buy, tax and maintain. I'd never get one as I still want a fun/engaging drive.