The Third Generation MINI Cooper: A Buyers Guide

You asked and I listened. This is the 3rd Generation, F56, MINI Cooper Buyers Guide. I'm sure I've left some things out but you can be sure I'll be making another in the future and adding to this guide over time.
Information is generalized as I didn't want to focus on a specific car but if a specific one is desired, I will make those in the future.
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#MINICooper #MINI #JohnCooperWorks #miniac

[@TheMINIac]

I didn’t include the Cooper SE as I don’t have much information on the used electric MINI powertrain.

[@thereallotharmatthae]

Electric we drive at the funfair

[@johnhurley4913]

Thank you for your hard work creating this video! This was really helpful!

[@Randolini]

I have an 05 R53 Mini Cooper S with the Eaton Supercharger. It needs a little TLC, but I am happy to give it all the love it deserves.. I love the whine of the little Eaton when I accelerate. I see an automatic in the R56. I just turned 77 and I grew up with three on the tree and four on the floor. I bought this Mini because it has a six speed stick. I am aware that the auto stick is a little quicker, but in the twistees, I want to be in on the action and only a stick shift allows me to do that, besides, my Kawasaki has a six speed and the Yamaha I'm jonesin for now is also a six speed. You don't stop having fun when you get old, you get old when you stop having fun. Words to live by. 😁

[@soggydoggy2k6]

Hello from the UK! Just placed an order for a 2016 Mini One over here and this video was amazingly helpful for what to look out for and just an overview of the car in general. Amazing work :)

[@TheMINIac]

Thank you. I am planning a Buyers guide for the F56 JCW at some point soon as well.

[@ericcole4926]

I am new the Mini Coopers and I am in the market to buy, and have to say this video was a great help in what to look for and good all-around information.👍

[@TheMINIac]

Glad you liked it. My goal was to provide info but not scare people off. Thankfully this generation has less stuff to be scared of.

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

The prices being "all over the place" can be an advantage or a disadvantage depending on if you're buying or selling and to a dealer or to an individual - my experience is that if you're selling to a place like CarMax then you really want to make sure you do it in person and ask if the appraiser knows about Minis - it's very common to get very low trade/cash price offers from dealers that either don't know or pretend to not know. It works the opposite when you're buying - you can often "score" a deal on a loaded JCW simply because it has more than average miles on it - the dealer may not realize "what they have". Shop around but "Buy That Mini!"

[@TheMINIac]

Darn right. Good information. 👍🏻

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

Don't let some lack of options ruin a good deal. My wife has a '13 Countryman S All4 in "Light Coffee" mainly because she really missed her '15 that we sold during the pandemic (for way more than we paid for it). It was a great deal (the new R60) with under 20k miles and was in "like new" condition - I really do think a little old lady drove it to the grocery store and to church - all dealer maintained and no mods, etc. Funny though - in 2013 a lot of interior options weren't available as in the 2015 she had - one of which were rear cup holders - normally that wouldn't be a "deal breaker" but for her it almost was; seriously, she was considering taking it back because of it! I found Outmotoring had OE New Old Stock dual rear cup holders - I ordered them and now we're in business. Keep places like Outmotoring in mind for all sorts of parts and "bits" such as mirror caps, etc. Their prices are good and shipping turn around is also good.

[@TheMINIac]

And use code MINIAC5 for a 5% discount with Outmotoring as well.

[@davidwayne9982]

I'm old and NOT able to do my own work any more.. I also won't be driving all that much-- back and forth to town two- three times a month - 30 milies each way- and maybe one or two DAY trips-- a year-- (short ones at that-- I don't feel like LONG drives any more). AND I know these are great on snow--- so they're sounding PERFECT to me-- if I can get one that's GOOD.. and doens't NEED anything.

[@freeholddomains3364]

Your review was great. I've owned three and leased one. The one I missed the most was 2016 s four door, 6 speed manual, with HUD, that I drove in Mini Takes the States. I now have 2017 S which I am really considering ..tricking out.. God I hope they still say that. LOL. Thanks for sharing

[@TheMINIac]

I’m a millennial so sure, tricked out works for me. 🤙🏻

[@robo6548]

Good vid! Couple things to mention Door B pillar paint wear: door seal rubs paint down to the metal over time causing rust. Engine wiring loom: retains water causing total failure of the car electrics, easy to check if car has the modified loom made of canvas wrap instead of ribbed plastic. Tracking / wheel alignment: these cars are surprising sensitive to bad tracking, annual check is good to do. The F56 are cracking little cars, very economical, reliable and fun to drive.

[@TheMINIac]

Good info. I have experienced the alignment thing as of recent since I had to get some stuff worked on and they realigned the car. I've been chasing a perfect alignment since. Seems okay now. Dodging potholes helps keep that in check.

[@MacBookAir-cu4fb]

I have a 04/2014 Cooper S (so the one of the firsts) and have this „problem“. There is nothing that rusts… This definitely is just a cosmetic problem… also stonechips on the front bonnet doesn’t rust at all. Chassis wise the f56 are pretty solid!

[@allenwixted1992]

Would you mind linking something on the wiring loom? Just about to buy one

[@darksideemt]

My wife just got a 2dr S hardtop and we love it. Got a 22 with only 9400 miles for a great price. Have been looking around for a couple of weeks online all over the US and average 22 or 23 slightly used was $30k give or take and we got her's for $27k. It looks brand new and didn't even see any rock chips on the nose. Prior to this we have never had any other MIni and in just the few days we already love it.

[@TheMINIac]

Glad to hear it.

[@leom00n79]

Hello. I’m reaching out to ask how are you liking your Mini so far? Did you have any concerns about its long term reliability before purchasing? Has it been reliable so far? What are your pros and cons? Do you have any buyers remorse ? I saw a 2023 Mini Cooper S on Autotrader and deeply considering getting it. It’s my dream car, but there are some nay sayers due to its past models.

[@darksideemt]

@@leom00n79 So far we love it! I think I wouldn't definitely try and go for JCW if you can find one for a good price. I do prefer the "dash" setup better in the 22 over the 23+ but that's me. It is way more fun to drive than I imagined it was going to be but really good on gas on the highway.

[@leom00n79]

@@darksideemtare the breaks good in the Mini? How about the A/C? Is it blowing cold air well? I live in Las Vegas so good breaks and good A/C during summer is needed lol .

[@TheMINIac]

Yes and yes. Very good overall.

[@Steve-ew5sl]

I would keep eye out for common problems with mini cooper I much prefer new and even used I always paying attention to underneath the car inspection for rust anything or damage if car was involved accident

[@chuckg3517]

Just picked up a ‘19 Cooper S two door with 14k miles for $24k. Still smells new inside. Have had it about two weeks and loving it. I’ve always owned a ford or a chevy. So this is all new to me. It came with the JCW steering wheel that has the red stitching. As well as the auto shifter. But it’s not a JCW. I take it that’s pretty common though? I’ve already started a list of things I want to do 😂. It’s a sickness lol. Did the same with my ‘11 camaro and ‘17 mustang. Drove both of those vehicles to 200k. Hoping this cooper lasts as well.

[@leom00n79]

Hello. I’m reaching out to ask how are you liking your Mini so far? Did you have any concerns about its long term reliability before purchasing? Has it been reliable so far? What are your pros and cons? Do you have any buyers remorse ? I saw a 2023 Mini Cooper S on Autotrader and deeply considering getting it. It’s my dream car, but there are some nay sayers due to its past models.

[@chuckg3517]

@@leom00n79from what I understand, the B46/B48 engines in these 3rd gens is quite reliable with proper maintenance. 2nd gens and earlier had a lot of problems. No complaints so far, and I’ve driven about 4K miles to date. I have quite a long highway commute to/from work every day.

[@jeffreyhawthornegoines8727]

I have a long and enduring love for Minis. I have had several used ones. However, the newer ones have become expensive, unfortunately. Also, I was not fond of the longer nose on the previous iteration. The new one seems beautiful again

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

The door jam rubbing is a "thing" my son's '18 JCW F56 (bought used earlier this year) is getting it a bit - me thinks it was result of the seals not being kept in good condition / made supple - I've "prescribed" a strong dose of 303 Protectant ;-) Every time I was the car I go over the rubber seals with 303 and it seems to be "bringing them back". That's a good price on that Cooper S - If I didn't already have 4 Minis I'd be very tempted....

[@TheMINIac]

Lol. Never can have too many MINI. LOL

[@davcuts2897]

I have heard a lot of people saying their sunroof wouldn't close. It was the only problem one person told me they had with their 2019. I'm not sure if it's a common problem, but when more than one person tells you their sunroof refused to close, it makes me feel it probably is.

[@TheMINIac]

I’ve heard of the sunroof, refusing to open when it’s too hot outside

[@moonlightfilms5279]

I picked up my 2015 cooper s optioned out all the way, except for the sunroof which I didn’t want because there was actually more headroom without it, I’m 6’5 so that was important. I got it certified pre owned in 2018 with only 15k miles for $16k. No problem with the car at all, everything looks mint but I only have 40k miles on it. Will keep it as long as I can, great car for driving in the canyons or down to the beach!

[@Doppo69]

How’s it been for reliability?

[@Oplix]

You covered pretty much everything. Great. One thing you should have mentioned is that most Coopers don't come with a spare tire and there isn't actually a way to add one.

[@TheMINIac]

Correct. They don’t usually.

[@MikeTheBike58]

Many manufacturers have done away with spare wheels

[@rarinkaz]

LOL! You said check the suspension and bushings...I've had nothing but problems with my suspension since new!

[@Oplix]

I've had to replace my motor mount it was already leaking at 60k miles. Dealer quoted $1200. Bought it for $40 on ebay and did it myself.

[@TheMINIac]

It can be daunting to do things yourself. If you have the mechanical skills though and patience, it isn't that bad to do.

[@Stand-back-up]

Is that true in the USA for the JCW Tuner Kit up to a 2020? I was under the assumption that an early build 2019 was eligible, but that could be UK. Thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@TheMINIac]

I know that it’s not really possible to do 2020 US market tuning kits, which would be 2019 UK but I was told it is possible for 2019 and older. Pro exhaust is doable all the way through in the US but if you live in a country with the OPF, I believe you’d have to delete the OPF to fit it.

[@mral6168]

Great content! Curious about the fuel grade required on the third-generation?

[@TheMINIac]

All MINI models, 91 octane.

[@MikeTheBike58]

Work at the heart and home of MINI Plant Oxford,have a mapped (178bhp) 2017 MINI COOPER.

[@TheMINIac]

@@MikeTheBike58 that’s awesome.

[@Me-eb3wv]

My dream car ❤

[@CodyEwok]

Im replacing all of my motor mounts on my 2015 S with 70k miles. Upper mount is a common issue. The parts all said and done cost me $168. A shop quoted around $2k for the work. Simple replacement.

[@CodyEwok]

"simple"

[@TheMINIac]

Simple is a relative term for most. But if you have the skills, go for it.

[@Drsunnychan]

Are there any advantages or disadvantages with the 6 speed auto system vs the current 7 speed dct in terms of performance and reliability?

[@TheMINIac]

They function similarly

[@Babel7078]

What you think about three cylinder 1.5L engines? In Europe we have them in 102 HP and 134 HP. Mine is 2020 MINI ONE, 102 HP, so far so good with 40K . By the way, good video, as always!

[@TheMINIac]

I think they’re good engines. And with driving modes they’re incredibly fun little engines. Especially when paired with a manual.

[@davidwayne9982]

Do you by chance have a BOOK on these-- or maybe a multi-cd COURSE on these-- and what you can do with them- for them and To them?? Customizing- or fixing - service manuals etc.???

[@TheMINIac]

Watch all my videos. I’ve talked about these cars for going on 6 years. 😁

[@davidwayne9982]

@@TheMINIac Since I found you- I have watched several so far..

[@justingarlitz2788]

The Mini Maintenance System does not tell you everything, at least for my 2018 JCW 2 door. It does not include cabin filter (recommended every other oil change), engine filter (recommended every 4 oil changes), or spark plugs (recommended every 6 oil changes).

[@TheMINIac]

Spark plugs usually come at 50,000 miles so that would be outside the average 36,000 miles or 3 years plan. Same goes for cabin air filter. I believe my engine filter was changed during the time I had the maintenance plan. I drive a lot so at almost 52,000 miles I ran out of warranty just over a year after buying my 2022 JCW. Still going strong. Routine maintenance works on these cars. If you are trying to save costs, doing some of this stuff at home isn’t horrible. I found a video on doing the cabin air filter. It’s a PITA to get under the dash but it doesn’t look too difficult.

[@VgAce135]

Does the paint ever start peeling on any parts of the car? I am about to take delivery of a 2024 Cooper SE and I opted for PPF on the front of the car and doors. Would you suggest getting it on the top of the car as well?

[@TheMINIac]

Haven’t heard or seen paint peeling on the F56. PPF couldn’t hurt with these. I know lots of folks who do it given the cars aerodynamic characteristics.

[@VgAce135]

@@TheMINIac Good to know. I'm excited to get my first MINI!

[@TheMINIac]

Cooper SE is a good choice. They’re really fun to drive. I was surprised when I first drove one.

[@SubaruBRZ-oe7sz]

Would you recommend the f56 cooper s as a first car?

[@TheMINIac]

Providing you maintain it properly, yes. They’re very reliable. I would look for low mileage and possibly CPO if you’re buying used. Otherwise, just look for one with a thorough maintenance history.

[@Por_981]

My wife and I have a 2024 Cooper S that we both think is a fun car. We also have several other sports cars. My major MINI dislikes are: #1) Our other sports cars can show you oil temp, oil pressure, water temp, and alternator voltage right in front of you on the dash, at all times. The MINI is severely lacking in up to date driver information. #2) I don't like that when you raise or lower the steering wheel the tach and the speedo move with it. #3) The Cooper S should come with the current JCW level of horsepower and the JCW should be at an appropriate level above that. For the amount you pay for a Cooper S or JCW, the horsepower is very expensive.

[@TheMINIac]

Good points. I agree with you. Make more sports car. Don’t dumb it down for the generic consumer.

[@davidwayne9982]

THIS is 2023-- working toward 2024- so the ones out now- NEW ones- should be GOOD??? I really wanted one til I saw all the negative videos on here.. but now i'm hearing the 3rd gen is NOT junky like they use to be.... TRUE??

[@TheMINIac]

True. Not junky at all.

[@shinichisan6789]

2019 and with that trans level? My cooper s 2019 has the new small transmition level maybe cause is the Mexican version

[@TheMINIac]

2019 in other markets is 2020 in the US market. So this 2019 model came to the US market in 2018.

[@SphinX_CS]

What's your thoughts on the S vs SD?

[@TheMINIac]

We don’t get the diesels in the US, so I wouldn’t know.

[@davidwayne9982]

WHAT do I need to look for BUYING NEW???? What's good to GET and what's good to LEAVE ALONE??

[@TheMINIac]

Can’t go wrong with anything when it comes to buying brand new.

[@davidwayne9982]

@@TheMINIac THANKS. I've always bought used - financial reasons and I liked working on them-- but I can't any more so NEW it is.

[@sampo3101]

is 8 speed dct on the clubman only?

[@TheMINIac]

8-speed isn’t a DCT. It’s an automatic.

[@sampo3101]

@@TheMINIac oh okay but my question still stands. Out of curiosity, my 2017 s all4 has 8 speed

[@TheMINIac]

Correct.

[@Joe-eg7ml]

Are there any issues with a GP3? Thinking about getting one.

[@TheMINIac]

None that I am aware of and I have 3 friends who own one

[@Joe-eg7ml]

@TheMINIac are they that bad from what people say. They complain about the the car pulls in the direction of any road imperfections. I am accustom to that in my Lotus Exige S but it's mainly due to the lack of power steering. I would hate that feeling as an occasional weather appropriate dd.

[@TheMINIac]

@Joe-eg7ml the MINI JCW is a sports car so yes, they’re incredibly twitchy at high speeds. If you aren’t used to that, you’ll think there is something wrong. The beauty of these cars is that they’re twitchy. They can corner on a dime, much like your Lotus. I’ve been in a Lotus Elise before on a track. That thing changes direction faster than your body becomes aware that you’re changing direction. I daily drive my JCW. The responsiveness is what makes it fun. People complain about it. I don’t.

[@Joe-eg7ml]

@TheMINIac not complaining, I heard it's really severe from all the yt reviews. My dd right now is a stage 1 mk7 GTi with street coilovers and 26mm rsb. I have no issues with it. Just don't want it to be like the lotus. My dealer won't let me drive it unless I'm committed and since it's in the showroom.

[@TheMINIac]

@Joe-eg7ml I’ve driven them. About to drive a JCW Clubman today. The GP3 is a blast to drive and one of the 3 folks I know uses it as his daily driver. They can be twitchy if you turn the traction control and stability control off. But the rest of time they’re very compliant. I never noticed them doing anything different than any other MINI. They do have summer tires so the harsher tire could be a factor to consider but you can get all seasons that’ll fit the car.

[@rarinkaz]

I just got my engine mount replaced at 95,000 miles! $1,999.99

[@deathbyramen_]

Man... I just talked myself out of wanting to buy another Mini 😭

[@TheMINIac]

Why’s that?

[@Oplix]

These aren't actually 189 horsepower. They are 215. I believe it's underrated for insurance purposes.

[@TheMINIac]

I’ve seen them dynoed at around 190. If you get the tuning kit it puts it close to 215. Maybe it was one of those and they just didn’t put the badging on it.

[@michaelhawkins5530]

The engine mounts fail frequently because BMW just can't or won't design a robust engine or transmission. All durability issues can be addresses if engineers are given the budget to do so. In this case, the mounts will last thru the warranty period. After the warranty period expires, the BMW mantra is 'screw em', they should have bought an extended warranty.

[@TheMINIac]

Engines and transmissions are fine. They’re robust and reliable. And the engine mount issue I attribute to lots of stop and go traffic. Which doesn’t affect me since I drive mostly highway and disengage the engine stop start feature.

[@TheMINIac]

And my warranty expired and my mount is still fine.

[@pedromont7867]

Idk if is me but i didnt hear anything about the 3 cylinders?

[@TheMINIac]

I don’t think I brought them up but I didn’t really talk much on the JCW either since I was using a Cooper S. The buyer guide elements apply to all of them. The 3-cylinder is a fantastic little motor.

[@pedromont7867]

@@TheMINIac Thanks for answering, been looking for a while for info on the 3cyl relliability cuz ive seen a few near my price range but all of them are 120k+ miles

[@anniechrisbendy6000]

Don,t bother with a mini .... THOUSANDS IN MAINT SO MANY ISSUES

[@TheMINIac]

You’re wrong with the current generation. Very Wrong. Most Reliable ever made. Zero Serious Issues.