Buying a used 2002-2006 MINI Cooper - things to look for - Gen 1 R50 R53

Buying a used 1st gen MINI? - I point out a few cosmetic things, then get right into mechanical things. Common mechanical issues, leaks, maintenance, etc.
I'm sure I missed a few things - ask questions in the comments below!
If you hire someone to look over the car, be sure to choose a shop with extensive experience with the first generation MINI Cooper and Cooper S.
Please feel free to ask questions in the comment section below.
Thanks for watching, please share, like and subscribe! Check out all my videos: / modmini
Want to show your support for MOD Mini? Check out my virtual tip jar at www.fundly.com/mod-mini-tip-jar and shop for parts or tools using the Amazon links! #modmini #modminiKZbin

[@johnhunt2390]

Going to go look at a car soon. I typed up the list of your inspection points to print and take with me. I thought I'd post it in case anyone would find it useful. Thanks for making this video! 1) Check body for damage. 2) Check suspension by pushing down on body. 1 rebound. 3) Drive car, listen for noises. 4) Control arm bushings. Kick tire from front looking for play. 5) Check for matching tires and even wear. 6) Check wheels for damage or curb rash. 7) Check brakes for wear. 8) Check for moisture in trunk battery compartment. 9) Check age of battery. 10) Check that all of the lights work. Windshield wiper also. 11) Inside the car, check all of the switches. Windows go up and down. 12) Check feel of brakes and clutch. 13) Look under the bonnet.14) Check coolant reservoir tank, especially on 2002-2003. Carefully check coolant level. 15) Start car. Smooth idle. No rattle or noise16) Smell for coolant. 2002-2003 radiator can leak at top right inlet. 17) Look for missing bolts or hoses in poor shape. 18) Pay attention to signs that the car has been modified. May imply hard use. 19) Look at the top of strut towers for doming or bulging. 20) Look at rubber on strut tower bearing. Old ones can crack and be a safety issue. 21) Check tensioner assembly on right side of motor. Steady, not bouncing around. 22) Look between motor and firewall for valve cover leakage. 23) Look between head and air box for leaking thermostat o-ring. Let car get hot then check. 24) Never buy a car without looking underneath. 25) Get the car up on jackstands or a lift. 26) Wiggle front wheels. Look for play 27) Front top & bottom = bad wheel bearing. 28) Front front and rear = bad ball joint and/or tie rod. 29) Do the same for the back wheels. 30) Go under the car and check ball joints for looseness. 31) Check control arm bushings for rubber fatigue or tearing. Typically after 60k. 32) Check for signs of underbody damage. 33) Check exhaust condition. 34) Check engine for oil leaks. 35) Most common leak is crank position sensor hidden by front bumper. 36) Also check rear main seal and front crankshaft dampener seal. 37) Oil filter housing above front left axle may leak. 38) Check power steering fan. Free-spinning with no grittiness.r 39) Check power steering pump. Leaking hose common problem. Extended pump warranty for most model years is 13 years and 150k. Noisy pump may be symptomatic of worn out pump. 40) Check lower engine mount for cracked rubber. 41) Check axles for intact CV boots. 42) Check clutch slave cylinder boot. Should be dry. Cracked boots will leak hydraulic fluid. 43) Check fluids. Oil should be clean and clear. Dark brake fluid is old.

[@ShahiduUddin]

thank you

[@emilychidalek344]

I was just about to do this! Thanks for saving me 20 minutes!

[@delvinny98]

John Hunt v

[@ta11jamz]

Outstanding, thanks for that!

[@lovingatlanta]

+ John Hunt - Wow! Thanks for typing that list! You are awesome. 👍😃

[@johnbaldock6353]

its january 2018 and still your video is helping people buy a used mini. Thank You.

[@dejay20001]

It's January 2019 and it's helping me buy a used 2003 Mini Cooper S

[@Verzula]

Its March 2019 and it's helping me figure out what problems can be with the 2005 mini cooper s and possibly go for one!

[@isaiahshutes4230]

Verzula it’s march 2020 and this vid is still helping me buy a 06 Cooper S

[@startpage717]

@@isaiahshutes4230 Its June 2020 and this video is helping me...2006 Cooper

[@TheChrisschriner]

November 2020 still helping kick tires on minis

[@Dmac13131]

Holy crap, what an amazing video, I am literally going to watch this video once a year and use it to do a check-up for my beloved mini!

[@Donross13th]

Extremely helpful for when I was hunting down my R53 over the last two months. Now a proud owner of an Astro Black Silver top. Keep up the videos, love seeing track time!

[@fprintf]

Also a great video for those of us who already own our older MINIs to check this stuff periodically for preventive maintenance purposes and to know how the car is holding up. Thanks for creating it!

[@chrisjstratton]

Acura RSX review

[@geoc1]

I live in manhattan, I typically love not having a car. I bicycle and use ubers everywhere. Last time I had a car was 9 years, an e46 BMW M3. Miss that car so much, sold it 1 year into living in manhattan. Now that we are in Covid lockdown, I was like damn I should buy a car to get out of the city and go on road trips and stuff. I bought a mini cooper !!! manual ofcourse. I drive it like I stole it. I literally beat the crap out of it. I was planning to sell it when summers over, but i think i'll drive it till the wheels fall off.

[@GarthGoldberg]

These are good tips for the inspection of any used car. Also check: the fit of the doors, hood and hatch.

[@jocelynmcsayles6986]

Thanks SO MUCH my guy! You’ve no idea how helpful it is to someone like me who knows nothing about cars. I was so afraid! But your video has helped me and I am now going to take it to firestone so they can do all of the underneath inspection that I can’t! Thank you so much for taking the time to help others with your expertise!!!!! 😊

[@dejaentendu247]

My 2004 Mini Cooper is by far the most fun thing I have EVER owned. By far. It makes driving a whole other experience. Mine is super reliable. But I keep up on the maintenance. The best tips I can give you are DON'T buy an automatic as they go bad quickly. And the Minis of this year always start to rust under the back tail lights, so look for bubbling under the paint. Good luck and enjoy the Mini life!

[@debbiepeter112]

dejaentendu247 I have just bought a 2005 plate Mini Cooper. Love it....Great fun

[@bolegna]

Agreed, the rust under the rear tail light is a problem especially in places where the roads are salted in the winter. The water just sits there and rots from the inside out. I had mine re paneled by BMW for free [in Canada] $8k of work under warranty - it's a 2004 i had it fixed in 2016 so check that perforation warranty! Great channel by the way so much good stuff here

[@katedana8621]

My 2005 Mini Cooper S is also by far the most fun thing I have EVER owned - even after 13 year of driving it. She just crossed the 85K mark (yup, I walk to work) and the steptronic automatic trans is still shifting like a champ. On the whole, very few repairs, no major mechanical. Tailgate started rust bubbling badly about a year ago - getting a new (old) one this month. F* salt. Keep motoring!

[@RichardADastardly]

I have a 2003 Cooper S which I've owned for 13 years. I had to have a cracked coolant header tank replaced early on under warranty and the power steering pump failed after a few years. Apart from those two well known problems it has been the most reliable car I've owned in 30 years of driving. Servicing and maintenance costs have been much lower than BMW and VW cars I've owned in the past. It drives better in 2018 than it did when I bought it in 2005. Replacing the original heavy 17x7" wheels and awful run-flat tyres with 16x7" wheels and normal 205/50 tyres was a big improvement.

[@moonrose4163]

Oh no I can only drive automatic I don’t know how to do stick shift dang I guess I have to go change it with a automatic mini wish me look hopefully it goes well planning on getting one soon

[@1anre]

Thank you man. Please do more pre purchase advice like this.

[@billthomas56]

Thank you so much for this video. I have had a 2003 Mini Cooper S for 10 years, and I still learned a few things. Much appreciated,

[@pleasepassthejam]

hows it going

[@beathoven79]

Great video man! It was priceless help - Last Sunday I bought R53. Thanks to you, I knew exactly what to check and where to look, when buying my street rocket ;)

[@golfboy666gti]

Thanks for this video. It really helped when I purchased my 2003 R53 :)

[@JASONvsBOSCO]

Great vid! Thanks for taking the time to do this, it is appreciated!

[@PodlyZbigniew]

Hi! Thank you very much for this extensive video guide, all the remarks were very helpful while I was buying my first Mini Cooper S (2005). Cheers!

[@hurricaneashley808]

Its 2021 and still your video is helping people buy a used mini. Thank you.

[@Ipod62578schannel]

I don't know why, but, originally, I was extremely into the 240sx and e36 scene, and still am; Something clicked inside of me though, after watching a 1966 mini cooper video, it's like I started aching for it. I was about 3 days from buying an e36, and now I feel like I need to own this car. They never even crossed my mind to own one either. I don't even know anymore.

[@keet6595]

Great video! I would add to check for leaks in the hydrolic motor mount. Mine is being replaced today!

[@DuckSherminator]

Got my first Mini thanks to you! All your videos gave me the confidence I needed. Thanks for the amazing videos :)

[@Matt-bd2or]

So hows it holding up for you? From what I read they got alot of issues.

[@avivscrewvalla]

I don't know the German Mini. I own the Classic Mini which drive here in the ol' smoke. I still wanted to drop a note to thank you for what is clearly a very thorough, detailed video. Classic Mini owners can only dream of a video this detailed. Cheers!

[@matthargreaves3134]

Very useful. Also look out for rust at common points around/below rear lights, bottom or the doors, and underneath the door sill seal

[@mneste]

Forgot one more, check the A/C if it works. I had 2 Minis with A/C piping being rubbed through because they are routed in a very tight area. One place is right near the compressor where the radiator fan vibrations could rub a hole in the hose and the other is around the transmission. Those hoses costs $150+ each.

[@shaunmcpherson5062]

thanks for the response. luckily there was a recall in my power steering pump and fan. so the fluid got replaced

[@Gandalfaux]

Thank you for such inspiring videos. I just purchased an 05 MCS R52 and will be using your videos as a guide to future upgrades. I especially appreciate the links to parts used in your videos. - JimB

[@TommyBrady_]

This is actually my dream car, lol.

[@CloseQuartersTV]

Did you get it

[@matthewhuffines1089]

dude i love my R53 and i drive that thing like a bat out of hell.

[@uhcolby1713]

did u get it yet

[@meepmeeppaul]

4 years later I NEED to know of you got one

[@geoc1]

​@@meepmeeppaul I live in manhattan, I typically love not having a car. I bicycle and use ubers everywhere. Last time I had a car was 9 years, an e46 BMW M3. Miss that car so much, sold it 1 year into living in manhattan. Now that we are in Covid lockdown, I was like damn I should buy a car to get out of the city and go on road trips and stuff. I bought a mini cooper !!! manual ofcourse. I drive it like I stole it. I literally beat the crap out of it. I was planning to sell it when summers over, but i think i'll drive it till the wheels fall off.

[@chrizopras]

Aww I wish I could put my MINI on your yard and let it check by you. You seem to be a really good MINI doctor... not like my MINI/BMW dealer. PS: That's a really beautiful MINI here in the video. :3

[@sha4337]

funkyasshole hi

[@lonegunman69]

thank you for posting this. I'm looking at buying my first mini

[@Bimmeraudi1]

I purchased a used 2005 Mini Cooper S a few weeks ago. Your channel has helped me alot since. Thank you.

[@shaelywhisman1211]

So how did it hold up?

[@joetenuta2549]

just started my search for an 05-06' R53!

[@joshmxvi]

Wow, super informative. Great video!

[@sban2067]

Ace review, well done it’s been a big help

[@roty9509]

I’m getting ready to buy an ‘06 S, and this video has been the best I’ve watched on what to look for. Thank you!

[@JaylenFast]

This is going to be a popular video!

[@ModMINI]

I have a feeling you are right. :-)

[@eatcustard4677]

Post 2004 minis are best, they have a better Supercharger and BMW fixed a few gremlins from the first ones. Also break pipes rust and the Duel mass fly wheel often fail.

[@beagletube]

Great video. Thanks for sharing your knowledge. It's great for those of us, like me, who have some mechanical upkeep / repair knowledge but are not gearheads. A very thorough inspection. This will help me with inspecting my 2006 JCW.

[@yassinesaidat9118]

thanks a lot for the video and the hard work you did put in it, much appreciated and certainly helpfull. thanks.

[@enabledaaron]

Such an informative video. Really, thanks.

[@pauliustv]

Really usefull video, thank you! I have one question: one ball mode only changing sound or it gives additional benefits like power or smthg?

[@ModMINI]

Paulius Mantulovas Mostly sound benefit. I suppose you may see a very very small HP gain.

[@dearyvettetn4489]

Thanks for showing specific problems to look for in this particular model.

[@emilychidalek344]

Thank you so much! This is so helpful!

[@MrMicrolin]

always take a ramp with you when you buy a mini .

[@YouTubeSupportTeams]

also bring it home first and see if you like it in your own time, then if you don't just send it back.. every mini owner won't mind you do this.

[@AdrianMendoza01]

Great video! I got a 2003 mini last week, and just didn't know what to do... Anyways, passenger window stopped working today. I'm gonna have to fix it, sounds loose.

[@billthomas56]

+Adrian Mendoza Very common problem. This is usually a window regulator gone bad. My 2003 Mini Cooper S has required numerous replacements; the window regulators are definitely a weak point.

[@AdrianMendoza01]

Bill Thomas Well, I followed the most common advice and repaired it myself with a few open handed hits on the open space between the door handle and the speaker. It worked! Haven't had any problems after that... Thank you very much and please, try this before you buy and expensive window regulator...

[@ModMINI]

+Adrian Mendoza It will fail again eventually. The reason it stops working is the motor brushes are worn down. For whatever reason the brushes are really short. If you use your windows a lot they will wear out faster.

[@WTFIWFYDB]

Adrian Mendoza How is going right now?

[@ShaderraFan123]

@@AdrianMendoza01 I did the same thing to my 2002 r53 s Definitely did the trick

[@thehobbytrio9768]

Thanks for the tips. Finally bought mine.

[@berghuisbs]

Thanks for that video. Very informative. Looking for a Mini now.

[@amychoi7139]

Where are you located and can I hire you to inspect a used Mini I'm interested in? I'm serious.

[@jeffkrug9045]

I'm looking into first gen Cooper S and was wondering do they have a timing chain or belt? At what point would that get changed? Also any concerns with the supercharger past 100k miles? Thanks

[@ModMINI]

They have a timing chain. Never needs replacing but sometimes the tensioner goes bad. It's an easy fix if caught early. Car will sound like a diesel so it is hard to miss. Supercharger failures do happen but are relatively rare. Risk of failure can be reduced by preventative maintenance (refilling supercharger oil - unfortunately this is a fairly major service) - I have videos on my channel describing both of these repairs/services.

[@jeffkrug9045]

Thanks for the quick response!!

[@IsaacReddinger]

Great video! Very informative and straightforward!

[@iky4539]

Thanks for bringing my Italian Job fantasy to life!

[@IneptVirus]

"look for smells"

[@Matt463634]

Inept Virus Synesthesia

[@XSunacX]

but it's only smellz

[@ItsTifahTifah]

Inept Virus smell for looks

[@Ojb_1959]

U mean smell fo smells👃🏼

[@redyellowpink01]

If it's got stink lines walk away

[@jasonmaldonado5868]

I have two concerns on the minis, the first is the rear wheels being canted outward when you stare at it from the back and the second one is when engine does not start right away (it takes maybe a good 3-4 seconds before it actually starts). I didn't know much about minis until I started watching your great informative videos. Now I'm just concerned about those things if this is something I should be worry on my mini.

[@ryankorecki8450]

Rear camber on a Gen 1 Mini is fairly aggressive compared to most other makes. I have an alignment sheet in front of me from the dealership and it states that even with 2 degrees of rear camber you would still be within spec which is probably what assists in the great handling characteristics of the Mini Cooper

[@ModMINI]

jason maldonado Some negative camber is totally normal. If the car is lowered, there will be more negative camber. If it looks really off, the car has probably been lowered. A healthy MINI should start in just 1-2 seconds. The most likely reason for slow start is old worn plugs.

[@jasonmaldonado5868]

Ryan Korecki- thanks for the information also Mod mini- oh Yes it does has a lowering kit, ok so this is totally normal then. As for the old plugs I definitely look into it. I honestly just got the mini and have not done a complete tune up yet. thanks for your advise.

[@robertstancliffsr9575]

I have a 2003 R50 and if I just turn the key and expect the engine to start it will take several seconds and probably die, starting and running the second time. I finally figured out that if I turn the key to on and allow the electric fuel pump maybe 7-10 seconds to pump a little gas, it will then start and not stall. Nothing wrong, that's just the way it is....you can hear the fuel pump running when you turn the key on, it needs a few seconds before you actually try to start the car........mine starts and does not stall when I do this...........

[@SeanKayGee]

Awesome! Thanks, I'm looking at used minis of this gen.

[@LynxStarAuto]

Good vids man. Been checking out your channel as I myself service many of these vehicles. Always entertaining to watch someone else who dabbles in them. I would add: door lock actuators which commonly fail. Engine cooling fan/module asset which is notorious for failing causing severe overheating, and battery drainage. Same goes for the power steering pump. Many bad pumps create a very faint ringing, or high pitched hum, you can hear when you shut off your MINI and step out of it. This will drain your battery. Power steering fan update. Make sure the updated wiring was completed, and the differences between the old style, and the updated version which does not disable your engine fan if the fuse blows. CVT failures, and symptoms. Especially on the early cars. The CVT is prone to failure, even if properly maintained. All in all an excellent video.

[@ModMINI]

Thanks for watching. Those are all excellent points. That fan module will also commonly cause the fan to only work in high speed mode, so instead of running quietly, it will either be off or very loud.

[@n136h]

I always kick the tyres

[@DarkHorse08]

Thanks. I plan to buy a used Mini Cooper S pretty soon.

[@justsain3236]

I'm looking in auto trader, most of them are too far away 😕

[@AW-xv7dq]

great channel thanks for all the videos and great info

[@rememberthattime6429]

I been on the market for 2 months trying to buy the right used mini cooper s Thanks for the tips it will be very useful.

[@rodg011]

nice little car .but dam seems like it has a lot of problems or possible problem

[@venomrecords8885]

roger white every car that is used has a lot of possible problems. Any car can have these problems as well. The video's advice should be used on all cars that are pre owned.

[@zhanglin317]

my advice after owned one 2002 Cooper... don't buy one! just don't. it is one of the most fun car i have had but it is a repair nightmare... very easy to sell it. because people buying them with their heart and not with their head!

[@JayHowi]

im getting a 2007 cooper s, i used to be a part time mechanic before I joined an administration and now it's just a hobby, was it anything serious on your mini was the previous owner someone who would've driven it into the ground and only maintained it because they have to? i'm just asking this because I have driven my mates 2005 cooper s and it runs smooth and the only money he's actually spent on it is basic service

[@zhanglin317]

JayIT hi, I use to be a auto mechanic also back in 2008. I give you a list of things went wrong in 1 and 1/2 years of ownership: 5 speed transmission needed a rebuild, door window broken both side, power steering electric pump needs replacement.

[@ModMINI]

That sounds like 2002-2006 problems. 2007 will have timing chain issues, and maybe thermostat housing coil pack and high pressure fuel pump issues. The vacuum pump and turbo oil feed tube also usually leak.

[@JayHowi]

Saablives well that kinda sucks i'm looking at a reasonably priced hot hatch that can keep up with fiesta st's and what not but if theres a chance of a gear box needing a rebuild it's probably not worth the effort. i'll either have to buy it with warranty or get I different car I guess

[@zhanglin317]

Gti is one you can go for

[@diegoluna6684]

Amazing video.. Simple, straight to point, very complete, tumbs up for u.

[@DarrellPoe]

Great video! Thanks for making and posting it! Earned my sub!

[@peediggy8140]

He's actually kicking the tires 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@ModMINI]

On a MINI, kicking the tires actually provides information about condition of the front control arm bushings. If they are shot, the tire will jiggle.

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

Yes he is you dope. It let's him check the bushings.

[@stephendangerouselliott5121]

Pee Diggy . Unbelievable. Tyre kicker! I almost exploded 😂

[@04dram04]

1:22 lol you literally are a tire kicker

[@63Baggies]

TYRE Kicker :-)

[@motoringon]

Very clear and precise information. Thanks for a great video!

[@appstate1996]

Thank you for this video. I was considering getting a Mini but I've read soo many negative things about their reliability and cost of repairs that I've changed my mind. Your video confirms this. I didn't count them, but you said over and over to "look out for this, the 1st gen Mini's are notorious for that". In the Mini blogs, I've read to absolutely stay away from the 2007- 2010 Mini's. I'm very disappointed to hear these things because I was truly ready to buy one. I think I'll stick with my ugly but very reliable Scion XB. The looks and fun of the Mini apparently come at a very high price!

[@MiikeyLawless]

Its not bad if you can wrench yourself. If you cannot, then you made a good call. Enthusiast cars like this tend to be best for those who can work on cars themselves, or have lots of expendable cash. Even something like an early 00s toyota celica is notorious for spinning rod bearings due to oil starvation issues. Performance=maintenance pretty much always lol.

[@scottbrixey6284]

That person really needs to clean their car

[@ModMINI]

+Scott Brixey Used Car Tip # 346 - don't buy a dirty car - it will hide all sorts of imperfections

[@Maaadizzlee]

I want to buy a used mini but know NOTHING about them

[@Echolyris212]

same here! did u wind up getting one?

[@Maaadizzlee]

Nope, I own a 2003 Infiniti G35 now and love it! Still want a mini though, will get it one day.

[@Norrr3]

Madelleine nice

[@readadvocacy5337]

Thanks, looking at 2004, have never bought a mini...very useful information, and ideas of how to get under and look...

[@BigTonyGee]

Great video! Thanks for making it!

[@chadhaire1711]

This video is a contradiction in logic. I will tell you what to look for in a used Mini--very easy; IF IT WAS MADE BEFORE 2010--FORGET IT!!!!!!!!

[@ModMINI]

The 2007-2009 were quite unreliable and gave the brand a bad name. 2002-2003 were a little rough as well. 2004 wasn't so bad, but 2005-2006 are pretty good and are widely considered the best MINIs around in terms of reliability and driving enjoyment. Having said that, every car is different and the key is to look for ones that were properly maintained.

[@ModMINI]

Not the 6 speed manual. The 2002-2004 5 speed and the automatic CVT were not good. The 6 speed automatic is better but still not great. The suspension is fine, the control arm bushings fail prematurely though, by around 70,000 miles they are loose.

[@chadhaire1711]

Lets cut to the chase here: 1. The Mini is a German car 2. German cars are designed to last 4 years or 50,000 miles. 3. This is a BMW 4. Bmw's are certainly designed for 4 years or 50,000 miles. 5. That is why any smart BMW buyer gets the 6 year 100,000 mile warranty. 6. After that they are money pits. 7. This applies to the Mini as well. They are great to drive but unless you are trading in every 4 years better get your wallet out $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. CLASS IS DISMISSED!

[@Snesbass]

chad haire Mini's are for passionated, just go buy a Corolla if your not happy about putting some bucks in a car once in a while, btw my 2005 Cooper S is very reliable, its my summer car and i enjoy it so much every year:) Mod MINI your videos are so much instructive and professional, thank you for sharing all these infos (G)

[@chadhaire1711]

If you are happy putting money in a car that breaks down and leaves you stranded be my guest. Most buyers would rather buy a new mini and spend their money on depreciation than towing and repairs bills, and not have to worry about getting stranded in the middle of nowhere at 2AM 100 miles from town. I don't have the time to deal with bullshit like that. Great if others do.

[@a89proof]

LOOK FOR SMELLS

[@ModMINI]

+Dale Gribble More like Sniff for Smells. Hard to see a smell unless it's smoke :-)

[@Drinnan]

Thank you. I'm away to see an '04 S today and this helps

[@mneste]

I would also add checking the heated seats if they work and also the passenger occupancy sensor (for the airbag control module). Both are expensive fixes.

[@kristinewhalley7786]

Going to check out a car today (Aug 1st 2020). Thanks for the video - Very helpful 👍

[@MrScougle]

Thank you for the video you just saved me buying a 2005 with a clutch that is almost gone. It would have added $1500.00 to the cost of the car.

[@lewisponymoore]

Amazing instructional video! I wish there were more like this for other vehicles

[@voltron979]

Whoa!!! Thanks so much man..!!! It made my choice a lot easier...!

[@gopherchucksgamingnstuff2263]

Thank you for the walk through on these . I own 2 of them mine is a 2012 r56 , my wife wanted a supercharged model as she doesn't like the turbo feel , I got her an 03 r53. All the info provided made it easy for me.

[@ModMINI]

+Jynx Whitaker I predict you will want an R53 as well!

[@gopherchucksgamingnstuff2263]

i have one and an r56 as well

[@geolouit]

I'm looking for a 2002 mini and this check will be very useful! Many thanks

[@innerjon]

My new favorite video!

[@LboogieG12]

great PPI report! thanks!

[@captainriggs2292]

I got a 02 automatic mini for my birthday and this vid is gonna help when I look it over

[@markandfrancis]

Great video! Just purchased our first new mini. Thanks a lot!

[@chrisfoliaki6603]

thank you for the awesome instructions

[@chrishewson40]

Great video, very useful, there's so many dodgy dishonest sellers around, trying to sell you a car where the local mechanic has told them the vehicle needs work etc or it's got huge expense issues, or needs a new headgasket, the clutch is about to die, So they try to sell it on to some unsuspecting buyer. I hate buying privately second hand, you have to often wander, why are they selling it in the first place? The best ones are the, full service stamp book, low mileage, 1 lady owner, clean engine, no leaks, clean clear coolant liquid, no underneath rust or oil patches, nice easy push on the clutch, rubber seals are good, basically bring a qualified very honest mechanic with you,even if it's a small time private dealer. Remember why are they selling it, especially if it seems cheap ? In my experience buy a used car from a well known commercial dealership with warranty, full mot, usually most buyers are looking to get the next latest model or upgrade and the dealership won't risk they're reputation and buy a piece of junk to sell on.

[@dougmcdougall3997]

I would also check the brake calipers and rotors to make sure there are no cracks in the brake boots .You want to see even pad wear as well .

[@TheAverageG4mer]

I just barely found your channel today. Brother and I really appreciate how thorough you are in every video. I bought my wife a 2002 mini Cooper S her car but my project I picked it up for $2500 it needs some TLC but I'm excited to do things to it so she can have some fun, looking forward to future I just subscribe to you

[@campbeller1]

Thanks for the great video. I recently bought a 2004 mini, the video was really helpful.

[@Poohwaltrip]

Another great informative video.

[@michaelwilson6806]

Great as always! I would like to mention that when looking at a gen 1 or 2 mini that you take the time to really drive it. Not just around the block but take thru the city where you have alot of starting and stopping and out on the highway where you can get it up to higher speeds. As i found out on a vehicle that i purchased after only a short drive and two days later had to have the left front axle bearing replaced. Also make sure its clean enough to see any body damage as kurt mention, again i purchased a 2008 clubman s from a dealer and the car was dusty and later after i washed it i found hail damage that could not be seen otherwise. Keep up the great work kurt.

[@ModMINI]

Very good points. It's easy to overlook things when you are attracted to a particular vehicle. There is a very definite emotional aspect to car buying (and selling) and it is important to recognize and compensate for this. Minimize your emotion when buying, maximize the emotion in the buyer when selling! Go back and see the car a second time. It's amazing how many things you will notice. Check out the car, then go home and think about it. Don't make an emotional commitment (or transactional commitment) until you've thought things through and see the car a second time. Don't buy someone else's problem!

[@ModMINI]

Oh, and like mentioned above, drive the car hard- that will often reveal mechanical problems that even the owner didn't know were there. You have the best chance of getting a price cut if you can find mechanical/cosmetic issues that the owner did not bake into the asking price.

[@wardmontgomery9259]

Excellent video - most helpful, thank you

[@zolaapfen1376]

Thanks for the extremely useful video.

[@TheConorMLife]

Thank you!! I’m currently looking at a 2005 MINI Cooper S :)

[@TREBLEANDSONIDO]

Awesome, thanks a lot for the tips! Would it be possible, at some point in the future, to do this feature for the 2nd gen. R56 model as well? Would be greatly appreciated!

[@danjenkins3421]

Very useful, thank you!

[@Gakevan]

Thanks for making this video.

[@GregRband]

Great info, thanks!

[@MePeterNicholls]

Great video. This would be great with a check sheet one could download to use. I’m viewing a few next week

[@NoahTheFacts]

Wow, what a trip down memory lane. I’ve replaced almost every item you pointed to on my 2002 R53, but I still love it. I think that one needs a power steering reservoir o-ring too.

[@JoseMarquez-le2qu]

Very informative. Thanks.