Was Buying a Used MINI Cooper S a $6000 Mistake? 3 Month Ownership Update!

[@alaindeul1333]

This really is a unique car and Tommy did a great job reviewing it. NICE

[@marcellegardner4906]

TRD 1234567891011

[@danward48]

My 2009 R56 (6-speed) has 119,000 and going strong. I've had since 2014/26,000 miles and drive it daily. Only big issue I've had is the turbo oil lines leaking but that was an $800 fix which isn't great but hardly catastrophic. Definitely the most fun car I've ever owned so I'm hoping it continues to run well.

[@oliverkalamata2753]

My 2011 R56 is at 160k miles and still going strong. Sure, it's had a few issues but the engine, transmission and clutch are still on point!

[@Rgonzal805]

i just bought a 2011 R56 with 137k miles and it pulls strong

[@oscarromero1682]

Any tips for reliability and longevity for R56 Mini?

[@oliverkalamata2753]

@@oscarromero1682 change out spark plugs and coil packs. Keep an eye on the thermostat housing and KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON THE OIL LEVEL. Don't catch it running dry! Also, of course....change your oil regularly. 😉

[@foxandroses]

@@oscarromero1682 Don't buy 2010 and below because they have an N14 engine, 2011 and up have the better N18 engine.

[@goatmonkey2112]

The thing with the Mini is that it looks like an economy car, but your maintenance and repairs are at BMW prices.

[@94SexyStang]

cause it IS owned and made by BMW, lol........it's got BMW stamps all over it

[@JMc.D]

@@94SexyStang lol I think he knows that.

[@Sekrio]

get a fiat abarth or mazda mx-5 instead

[@JM-it2zo]

Not to mention nobody wants to work on them and parts are impossible to find

[@Spartansrule118]

@@JM-it2zowork on it yourself

[@alfredocortesb5]

A reliable car ...as a third car.

[@TheLatinlover9574]

Hahahah

[@ankitbhutani5470]

I just bought one as my third car :)

[@Chadfreee]

@@ankitbhutani5470 how do you like it and what year/model?

[@ankitbhutani5470]

@@Chadfreee well almost immediately it needs a timing chain.... mine is an 09 jcw and though it has its problems when it works it always puts a smile on my face

[@tokedeprimera]

jejeje. im goin to get one as a sunday car only! jaja

[@patrickirish8110]

I'm pretty sure that I heard, some time ago, that this particular channel (Classics) was started by Tommy. I know it doesn't always get the top views when compared to the other TFL channels, but I'm so glad Tommy keeps plugging away at it. I absolutely love the content!!!

[@anthonyc1883]

Kase has been brought on to contribute primarily I think to TFL Classics. I like both guys.

[@TFLclassics]

Thanks for the kind words! We have fun over here at classics

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

Agreed 100%

[@kingming869]

I had a 2010 Mini Cooper S myself (Bought it brand new, also the most unreliable car I've ever own. traded it in for after warranty expired, only had 35k miles), Although the car does look cute and unique, and drive is fun. I was at the shop almost every 2 month. Issues ranging from, water pump, timing chain, heat shields failing on the roof... it is almost embarrassing to own that car, having the folks at the shop see me there constantly.

[@NormandyFoye]

I have a 2004 R50, 11700 miles so far and just changed the clutch. No issues beyond regular maintenance. Loved it so much we bought a new countryman. New models are bulletproof thanks to multiple Dakar Rally wins and the information gained from such stress testing. If you can’t afford to own/maintain BMW products, then a Mazda Miata is your best option for driving fun and reliability.

[@LuisFlores-zl9jx]

You forgot a zero?

[@OHHnoYOUdidntMAN]

this is such nostalgia. when i was a kid, my friend's family had this car and we drove early in the morning to go to the beach from Bel Air to Malibu. Love the way the air felt in this car. It also felt adventurous.

[@evanbozogan232]

Yes, it was. I bought a mini in 2016 and put 50,000 miles on it and ive paid more in repairs than the purchase price of the car

[@BenicioEcheverria]

Facts, my dad had to pay $4000 to get the computer recoded, absolutely stupid bmw

[@austintomkewitz7206]

Don't fix it just sell it broken at that point

[@professorgoat1099]

*2016. thats the key. a good 1/3 of their cars are manufactured in india now. not the case for 2010-2013 mini's. you need to check the vin before you purchase, to make sure it was manufactured in europe. my 2013 s is running strong.

[@Wrangzilla]

@@professorgoat1099 you have no idea what you’re talking about. 2/3 are still made in Oxford, England and the other 1/3 is made in Born, Netherlands.

[@aford1addie]

I work on these Minis. The best and most reliable ones are the first generation supercharged. Although I'm not a Mopar fan, my 2002 has 160k miles and besides from regular maintenance there's nothing wrong with it. Body is stronger. Overall parts used and engineering is by far more superior than 2nd Gen. Does not burn a drop of oil unlike French Engines that require at least 1 ltr of oil every 500 miles. The French engines such as yours was the worst choice made by BMW!

[@charleschenhua]

I had one, totally agree. French should stick to make cheese and wine

[@underthetrees4780]

So this 2003 Mini S I'm looking at for $5k and 150k miles is a good deal? I just want some decent fuel economy during the inflation crisis.

[@NewVanquished]

I watched this while looking for info on the first gen. I'm potentially about to buy my great aunt's 2006 Cooper S. She only put 18k miles on it and I couldn't pass up that value. I was worried about the reliability history of Minis but hopefully this one's a keeper

[@piperacachalawafflez2116]

love my super charge thank youuuu

[@Logan-wv8qf]

I recently bought (First Generation) 2006 Cooper S, supercharged with 86,000 miles on it for $6500. I did a TON of research, reading a thousand comments, especially those by technicians. This is my first Mini. This car is Fun as Hell to drive. I go easy on the supercharger as I’ve read what it costs to service it. , 6 spd manual smooth as butter, 4000 miles later, so far, no issues. Wife even likes it. It’s more comfortable then the 2017 Scion 860 I had before that. This is as much fun as my 1976 Porsche 914, 2.0 from 35 years ago. I change oil every 4-5000 miles. Getting 31 mpg when driving it easy. Premium fuel is hard to swallow, but the Scion 860 wanted it too. Oh well, still having fun! Thank you technicians for your comments- VERY helpful!!

[@brucel4677]

I had a 2005 Cooper S, drove it for 100k miles and sold it for $8k. Only issue was oil consumption past 75k miles. Great car, so bought a new one in 2014. It has been absolutely trouble free except the manual transmission had to be replaced in the first 3 months because it kept popping out of first gear. Of course that was covered under warranty. I am a huge Mini fan. My bother owns a 2017 JCW Mini and he feels similarly.

[@doom2469]

Probably going to buy one from the year 2005 as I am learning to drive

[@brucel4677]

@@Ryaninsanity Bought another MINI in 2022. I always service them every 10K miles..

[@27Zangle]

I have always wanted one of these but have a fear of something bad happening and not having the time or money to repair it. As a family man, I have to think about those things first.

[@travisjernigan8529]

If you get one, lease a new one so you can give it back before it starts costing a constant fortune. I paid $8000 for mine and I've invested nearly $3000, with me doing all the work (except paying for a valve job). Honda civic is quick but reliable. Thats what I should have gotten

[@discerningmind]

The third generation seems that they will be pretty much like any decent car. But financial safety is most important. If I were you I'd play it smart with a Corolla or Camry. I wouldn't want my kid's going hungry (so to speak) because I chanced an unknown car.

[@scottmcgowan5861]

I would agree with Travis J. If you just REALLY have to have a Mini then you might consider leasing one. The lease payment will be less than a purchase payment. You get peace of mind with a car which should be just fine for the 30,000 or so miles you're allowed under the lease terms. Another option is Certified Pre-Owned. I bought my '15 F55 S two years ago as a CPO and so far so good. To be fair the car has never been a daily driver, has only 30,500 miles on it, and I've put on only 9,500 miles in 2 years/4 months. However, I do six track days a year at HPDE's so regardless of the total miles I have asked a lot from the car. It is great on the track and nothing out of the ordinary has gone wrong. But do think about Travis J's advice; a new car every three years or so might be a good choice.

[@DutchOrbit]

my mom drove hers without oil for a few weeks, it still runs at 120k. the sunroof is meased up. but it only misfired once adter replacing all the coil packs. its also a fbo cooper s without about 220hp and gaps any v6 pony car. ive embarassed quite a few people in it and gone back to getting 35mpg. i also put 500 miles a week on it. this reviewer doesnt know what the fuck he's talking about either. unless he's trying to keep this car a well kept secret their great cars that can take abuse from teenagers that think their in a movie and women who forget to do routine maintenance.

[@liaf3354]

@BiscuitPuncher as long as you take care of the Mini Cooper with Maintenance, it will be loyal to you. Lot of people don’t know how to drive it. It’s a British car with a German Heart (BMW) in Germany we don’t drive aggressive like Americans. We don’t skip oil change. That’s how you keep the Mini alive. Of course if you don’t give a damn about it, it can get expensive fixing it, like any other car.

[@ramonnavarro9752]

These cars are pretty good cars, I should know I own an R56 N18 2011 MCS, but only if maintained properly. There are a lot on the used car market and their owners never did any of the maintenance. Most of these cars are the ones that give mini a bad rep this is because service is outrageously expensive and as a result no one ever does complete any of it only to nurse along with factory warranty. However this goes without saying they do have some inherent factory problems however BMW updates the parts unlike other manufacturers - these cars get love. I'm also here to tell you that I take on Camaros and Mustangs very easily all the time. all it takes is a bigger turbo and a good clutch to hold it as well as all the other supporting mods to go along with it - you can also seriously piss off some of these people if you build up the motor and add a methanol injection kit as well as enlist the help of a good tuner. Plus, it doesn't cost as much as what an owner of a Mustang or a Camaro would pay for similar performance. If you need help go to North American Motoring we are a a big community of mini owners and we'll be glad to help you as much as we can.

[@MrSymply]

I have an 08. Bought a little over a year ago and have already put 12k on it. Love the car. Only issue I had was with the oil filter housing leaking. 15 dollar oring kit and no issues since

[@noneyabusiness368]

I have a 2013 S absolutely zero issues, oil changes are down on time and that's it.

[@badgerpa9]

Kind of reminds me of the Chevette, Escort, dodge charger (that was a VW) and Fiesta I owned years ago, they were all fun to drive at times.

[@sirgalahad1470]

Here is what I hope he does with this car in 2 years: Maybe in 2 years, someone will create an affordable aftermarket electric engine setup, and Tommy can do some videos about the conversion process. It someone could make a conversion kit for like $5000 it would be totally worth it.

[@cadsux]

I say, if you like a car enough, and the joys of having it still outweighs the hassels of ownership, then keep it. You only need to impress yourself. Initially, I thought you and your dad made a mistake buying it "sight unseen", but I'm glad it's working out.

[@dpd9581]

“You only need to impress yourself”. I think this statement qualifies this review. Pssssstt……..Maybe take this review with a grain of…….

[@paddyslawnandleaf2631]

My brother is in love with these cars and just had to park his 2nd 2009 mini S. Catastrophic engine failure.. in both at 90K miles.

[@shankarbalan3813]

The R56 Cooper S is a real classic. This second generation car with the Turbo charged Peugeot Prince Engine develops 184 bhp with an overboost feature taking it to 192 bhp on tap. It’s a heck of a car. I have one of these here in India. A 2012 model. And it is a solid little car. Seriously. I don’t know why you say they aren’t well made. Because they are really a good little car. A hot hatch in the true sense of the word.

[@noneyabusiness368]

And they fly

[@MrChilongaso]

You guys's love for your own cars makes me love my car even more. Keep it up Tommy, love your reviews.

[@undeadstoner12]

Mine has 140k and I haven't had any issues at all

[@420hansol]

miles or km?

[@maggartmotorsportandperfor4688]

I just bought a $1700 2004 Mini Cooper S. Its runs but pretty much everything else is broken in some way lol

[@robbeard4648]

The new mini coopers are super reliable. Please try to spread this info so not everyone things that EVERY mini is garbage. It was mostly the early gens and r56 with n14

[@erickotapish635]

I treat my 07 mini s like gold check oil every two days ....listen to ur motor ...it helps when u know what ur doing mechanically

[@liaf3354]

So true! I think the Mini Cooper is completely misunderstand in America. In Germany we have no pot holes and great streets. We are on Maintenance on top with our Oil change and don’t push it back and so on. I don’t know anyone who has trouble with their Mini in Germany. It takes good care or it will break. You can’t fill it up with cheap over the counter oils, it has to be a certain one etc. I love my mini! So far I don’t had any troubles. I’m driving A Mini Cooper 2006 and it drives better than cars from 2020

[@FightLife41]

@@liaf3354 you're 100% right check fluid and do proper maintenance your Mini will last a long time I have an R56 also and I love mine took my friend for a ride today and he says he loves it don't ever underestimate a Mini

[@MickehPuppeh]

I have some questions for any owners of these! If you can find one of these cars where all of the common serious issues have been addressed (timing chain replaced, all that jazz) - is it reliable enough, or should you really steer clear even if it's been well taken care of and fixed?

[@JASON-h7s]

We have a 2010 Cooper s 1.6 turbo charged has the paddle shifters/automatic. It drives great when everything is working we drove it for 30,000 miles then started seeing problems. We had our timing chain replaced,coolant pump replaced, high pressure fuel pump replaced, vaccuum line replaced. All spark plugs and coil packs replaced. Other than that it runs awesome hopefully doesn't have anymore problems. It only got 58,000 miles on it. But way I drive stuff I don't just putt around. We got car gave to us for free when it has 20,000 miles on it. If u drive it really easy u probably have better luck than me 😆

[@Albennnn]

I have a 2011 Cooper S with 144k. Timing chain replaced 1x, Timing chain tensioner replaced 2x. Water pump replaced 3x. Basically every hose in the engine replaced. HPFP probably gonna go soon as well. Still love the car, but it is definitely a money pit. I do drive it pretty hard. They run hot & burn oil so check your fluids regularly.

[@MickehPuppeh]

@@Albennnn Reporting back after a year of ownership. HERE WE GO. - Timing chain replaced - HPFP replaced - Thermostat housing replaced - LPFP replaced - Fuse box repaired And other stuff. Over 4 grand of maintenance in. DO NOT buy these cars!

[@ivan199120]

@@MickehPuppeh 😢. I really want one to beat on.

[@SinnerSince1962]

I actually think the wood steering wheel and shift knob adds just a touch of vintage to the car. Kind of like, "Oh, yeah... did I tell you I'm vintage-ish?". I had an r53, and loved it. My wife and I drove it to Florida's panhandle on vacation one time, and we drove with the windows down, pano roof open all the way!

[@joelsmith5374]

I got a mini cooper 250000 miles all I did was change the oil but now I got to have done is c axles all good

[@ceylontea5877]

What year is it S manual or automatic?

[@bajoobiecuzican]

I am a two times mini owner. Currently own a 2013 Mini Cooper . Fun to drive. But not practical. Very expensive to repair!!!! As it got older it started burning oil. Runs hot. I bought it brand new and it only has 75k miles on it. Next car will be a Honda or Toyota.

[@estebanhenriquez3491]

PREACH! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 I daily a 2005 MINI Cooper S, and I regret it! In the last month, everything has managed to go wrong with it. BMW has managed to never get me into another MINI ever again.

[@johnbertram]

I have a late model R55 Clubman Cooper D (Dooper), and I love it!! Much more fun than the BMW X3 I had prior. And a lot cheaper to run!

[@liaf3354]

I’m still driving my Mini 2006 ♥️

[@johndrake2705]

I have a 2008 Cooper non S R56 with 336,000km. I drive it 150km a day. Over a 1000km a week. Something breaks you fix it. But like Tommy says it is fun to drive. It’s my daily driver for work. The stereo head unit is right behind the volume control. I use a cd mount placed into the CD player with a magnetic attachment and place a iPad mini there and monitor some of the engine sensors through either torque pro or dash command.

[@robertmusicman]

What program do you suggest to use to monitor the engine ?

[@johndrake2705]

Was using dash command but it’s not configurable to what I like monitoring, your limited to what is available to down load. Torque pro is great for a small tablet as well as obd fusion. These two programs are very customizable. Torque for android Fusion for iOS.

[@NYKgjl10]

I'm thinking of buying a Mini for a long while and a fan of these cars for a long time since my late teen years. However, I do plan on getting a convertible style Mini which I adore. Excellent video and thank you for your honesty and tips.

[@ffl1409]

Was this whole video a single take, no edits? If it is, it is remarkable. Great job Tommy and the cameraman (Case?)!

[@TFLclassics]

Yes it was! Thanks for the kind words!

[@TFLclassics]

jeff rentsch Very nice of you to say! thanks for watching!

[@Rob-rg7ix]

My wife had one. Cost us more than my 5 series of the same year to maintain. Shitty cars if you ask me.

[@travisjernigan8529]

I now hate mine but I love the many features. Esp the rear wipers working continuously while in reverse.

[@jamescaley9942]

Far be it from me to defend Mini, but it is not just he car that determines reliability it is the type of driver the car attracts.

[@scottmcgowan5861]

Absolutely right. There's no substitute for conscientious regular maintenance.

[@estaban3248]

@@scottmcgowan5861 totally agree with what you say Scott, but no matter how often keep up with basic maintenance and have clean oil that clean oil is not going to be any good to you when other parts fail due to poor design and poor quality material used in manufacture i.e. cam chain guides. Which then restrict the flow of clean oil around the engine and lead to catastrophic engine failure. They're great looking cars but sadly lacking in mechanical engineering/design unfortunately.

[@ScorpionF1RE_USA]

Small engines outputting high horsepower, take beatings. There's no way around it.

[@georgemaly4747]

My daily driver is a 2014 Mini Cooper Coupe S no problems but suggest adding a catch can, I got a lot of crap out of earlier this year.

[@theylied1776]

I know a Broker that bought a Mini Cooper S Clubman new as his daily driver and he sold it in less than a year. It kept breaking down.

[@philtripe]

i smell a rat... something about your "story" sounds off like most cars dont have problems for the first year or two and you claim it "kept breaking down" in les than a year with no explanation of what the problems were... when people lie to me i always know it, but only bother to call people out half the time

[@theylied1776]

@@philtripe Then you've never driven a Mini Cooper or Fiat 500. Both of those models have got class action lawsuits because they broke down within the first year of ownership. The Mini Cooper has got several engine problems, including blown head gaskets, malfunctioning turbos, and malfunctioning coil packs. Take your pic.

[@theylied1776]

@@philtripe Also, if you smell a rat I suggest you use deodorant.

[@originalkk882]

@@theylied1776 Why do all imported cars in the US (apart from Toyota of course) all seem to have "blown head gaskets" as common problems? I've had 20-30 cars over 40 years in the UK and never had a head gasket blow. "Malfunctioning coil packs"? I had a BMW from the same time as this where the dealer changed the coil packs under warranty (actually trying to fix something else). That was 8 years ago. No issues with them since.

[@theylied1776]

@@originalkk882 Toyota is the only Japanese corporation that isn't part of an "automotive group", so they aren't forced to save on production by cutting corners by using cheap parts. The Toyotas that have problems are usually cars that are (rebadged) from other manufacturers, aka, produced in collaboration with: Suzuki, BMW, GM, Diashatsu, Citreon, Mazda, and Peugeot. But sold as a Toyota.

[@shawnkelly6947]

I've owned my 2010 S for 9 years now. Got it with 4500 miles now has 93k. In 9 years: tires, brakes/rotors, oil changes (4 maybe 5?), timing chain at 74ish thousand miles? and manufacturer specified service times. Love love love this car. Most fun car I've ever owned hands down...until I bought a Lotus Elise. But that's a pretty high bar. The Elise is insane. Still own the Mini (Bernice) and she ain't going anywhere soon. Love this car never had an issue outside the timing chain. It's been extremely dependable. And fun as fuck to drive. Not a ton of cars that can take a cloverleaf entrance ramp at 70+mph.

[@shawnkelly6947]

Also changed the clutch at 90k. sorry forgot about that.... But a regular wear item so no biggie.

[@estebanhenriquez3491]

I chose to buy an R53 Cooper S, and I agree, it's an amazing zippy and quick car! However, I regret buying it as my daily. It's now giving me so many headaches that it has managed to ward me off from buying another one.

[@travisjernigan8529]

After I rebuilt the upper engine, I cant keep up with the amount of codes that keeps the engine light on. And when I rev over 4000rpm it goes limp. I wish someone would total it for me.

[@ryanconklin1440]

Tommy I bought an R56 with 45k miles for $7,500 based on your recommendation I put about $3k into it. I am so happy I feel like I am sick, enjoy throwing money at this car.

[@liaf3354]

Take good care of your Baby :) mini needs love or they won’t work correctly

[@nicoletelles8251]

I had a 2010 Cooper S Mayfair Edition. The engine blew at 112k miles. We replaced the engine because the car was so charming. My dad has it now and uses it as his second “fun/grocery” car. Sooo many things went wrong with that car. Turbo went out and even the moonroof window cracked as I was driving it…. Bizzare

[@damianpasour]

I just bought a 08 clubman 1.6 turbo with 115k miles on it I’ve had 2 mini coopers and I really like these cars :)

[@ajayshrivastava8220]

I own 2014 mini cooper S countryman all4. It sucks! Engine seals keep failing & keep leaking oil.

[@touchedouche8806]

Buying the 'S' might have been a bad choice, but my r56 hatch non 'S' has been a trooper for 11 years now. (Well MAINTAINED)

[@Hades_Persephone]

Mine has been dead for about four months…about two months after purchase. Good thing it wasn’t my daily…slowly trying to fix it. Curse the P00087 code.

[@armchaireconomist8648]

Have a Clean 2012 MINI Countryman N16 manual 131,000 miles. So far so good.

[@user-oy9uo5dj5m]

I would like to have something ‘unreliable’ and very fun but certainly need to know what I am getting into. What are the true costs of maintaining this car? Will I be spending more per year on that than what I paid for the car?

[@IzzyZil20]

From what I understand, these cars are like BMW's, if you actually treat it well and make sure to change you oil regularly, give it the proper gas, and listen to what the engine is telling you, it's not that bad. But if you want a car that you can ignore or not have to take car of, don't get a mini

[@liaf3354]

@@IzzyZil20 you couldn’t say it better! Greetings from the Land of the BMW ♥️

[@davidstewart3868]

I had a ‘09 Clubman S , R55. It was my daily driver. Other then the N14 engine and it’s potential problems it was a great car. The extra space made it very useful. Change the oil twice as often as recommended, use an OEM MINI oil filter, inspect the cooling system for leaks (plastic cooling system parts go bad) and the water pump impeller is known to go bad too. Check to make sure your high pressure fuel pump has been replaced, it was recalled. I replaced the Clubman with a 2018 Subaru WRX but still have two first generation MINIs, R50 & R53. Happy motoring Tommy!

[@davidstewart3868]

DemonSlayer ByKnight, trust me the N14 engine was a stinker. I was one of the lucky ones and got $5,000 for it on trade in with 98,000 miles on the car. The cars with the redesigned N18 engine are much better.

[@benninger123]

Who wants a car u can't drive everyday , it just makes no sense . No wonder these car Car companies make so much money . There are a lot of not so smart people out there.

[@edwardseymour1096]

I’m a fan of Mini Cooper they are a fun car to drive but make sure you get the 100k mile tune up done so if you have to drive it daily you can

[@malcolmscott4150]

After owning a 2006 and 2011 Cooper S cabrios love the dynamics in terms of steering and go kart feel but everything else from ride - I had 17 inch run flats and sports suspension on the 2006 and ride was brutal and shook car to bits - cabrios rattle and shake - then water pump, timing chain issues and so called bmw quality called into question using one of these as a daily - you’ve got a good spec one there :)

[@estebanhenriquez3491]

Bro, I own an R53 Cooper S (2005) that I have driven daily for over 2 years. All of a sudden the car has taken a dump on me. Everything from the pulleys, to the water pump, rough idles... I love how they feel and handle but BMW has managed to never get me to buy another one again! Wish things were different but never again...

[@tornadotj2059]

I mentioned in the comments that I sold mine recently, and the 17" run flats are pretty much why. We live down 1/3 of dirt road and it was just beating the poor car to death.

[@charleschenhua]

How was the 2011 treating you?

[@lamar1423]

I used to have a Morris Minor back in the day that had a center speedometer. That is what I liked the best about the dash. It was like getting the best of British design but drives like a beemer.

[@ferstream]

Fun for the money nothing tops a Mini S, maybe the MX-5 Miata... But the Mini is immensely more practical. I've had own both, the Miata I ended up only driving when going for fun rides (like a motorcycle) while the Mini I use for everything!... Now it is my SUV what collects dust in my garage.

[@aaronbritt2025]

Mini S JCW Convertible is the best of both. That's why I just bought one. :)

[@OldThomMerton]

Okay, no British Racing Green but the stripes are right on and love the checkered mirrors!

[@saxonsteve]

I am in the process of buying(June 2023) 2012 Mini Cooper S with 131k. It runs great! Fingers crossed 🤞! I have watched a ton of videos here on KZbin and I am expecting some issues. Hopefully, they want be major issues. The exterior paint is a terrible! Planning on painting it, right away. I use to drive into the city every day. 80 miles total back and forth. I am now retired and won’t be driving that amount of miles! I am planning on putting on some performance mods. I don’t plan on beating it up! It will be nice to have that extra power when needed. Thanks for the video!

[@williammusgraves2852]

What happened to the 2003/2004/5/6/7. I’ve got a 04 just over 100000 miles original engine and clutch runs just like it did new .

[@CTSorenson8]

so he says at 2:42 he hasnt driven it much over the last few months but has a 3 month review on it sorry buddy your opinion isn't valid

[@robozoo2]

! Always keep oil with you!I have the r56 09 Base Cooper black on BRGreen and it’s been a fun car but a lot of small issues that are really annoying. Mainly is how much oil it burns,and as a result the chain tensioner loosens and you start to hear the clicking which makes you think the plastic guid is broke but it’s not, however it is not good if you go over 2500 RPMs it sounds like your engines going to break. The way to fix this to make sure you keep proper amount of oil. This is a sign that you’ve burned a little bit of oil and you’re running low adding about a quarter of a quart fixes it every time. I’ve had this problem for a few years now and had a checked out it’s only when it’s a little low. It’s got 120k so it’s probably going to burn a little more than a lower mile r56

[@ozzyprod9332]

I'm still going to get this as a daily after watching this vid, finna become a mythbuster. With a lot of love and care anything it's possible.

[@bspizzledizzle]

My family had one of these. My mom owned it from new and gave it to my wife. Wife loved driving the car, but it was a constant maintenance nightmare and burned an insane amount of oil. Awesome to drive though!

[@travisjernigan8529]

After I rebuilt the head and fixed the oil cooler leak (again), mine miraculously stopped burning oil. I've gone almost 6000 miles since the last oil change and still hasn't burned any. The carbon caked valves being cleaned made a big difference.

[@brantleyfoster021]

So it's not reliable either, glad I don't have one.

[@linusa2996]

So the New Mini is not a daily driver?? My dad owned a 65 mini and used that as his daily driver for nearly a decade

[@estebanhenriquez3491]

That's cute... The engine that one MINI your father drove is not the same one mine or any current-generation-owning MINI driver has. And as one who's MINI just took a dump on him, not to make a blanket statement, but I don't find these cars too reliable. BMW has managed to make me overlook any future purchase on a MINI again. Just my 2 cents...

[@10181995hamza]

How many tfl channels are there lol

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

Yes...

[@jb678901]

Get a sharp exacto knife and just slightly slice those vinyl bubbles and press out the air. At an anlge so that you do not scratch the paint...just enough to nic the vinyl. You will not be able to tell, the bubbles will disappear.

[@abhinayasrikanth8215]

Would you recommend getting a 2013 cooper s?

[@milodeescorpio3658]

I my home we love Minis. My mom has had 2 of them so far, and I own one myself.

[@bign3ck]

Get a 04/06 R53 Cooper s with the diff and 6 speed Getrag, no sunroof is better and if you deal with the oil leaks it's quite reliable, I use one as a daily and only had the expansion tank pop fluid, other than that it's been solid for 3yrs.

[@ferstream]

100K miles on my Mini and everything that could break I had preventively fixed or had broken, definitely expensive to maintain. However, owning any other "sporty" car would have cost a lo more when you consider depreciation, normal wear and tear, etc... 4 wheels and tires for $1500!... that's the cost of replacing rear tires on an M3 e46! The only sporty car that comes ahead in terms of "fun for the money" is Miata (highly impractical - see my prior post)

[@deadagn7169]

I want one so bad, but it’s the reliability having me second think.. I can work on cars fine but do I want the hassle

[@stevemoore457]

Most of us have that concern. Try to buy a third Gen. if you can, not super high milage and change the oil very regularly...like around 5K miles. Also, try to find a place around you who specializes in working on Minis or at least on BMWs or other German cars. Typically they are MUCH more inexpensive than your local MINI dealer.

[@sergiolozano6205]

I’m in the same scenario as you

[@HAudiii]

I bought a 2011 R56 for $5k with 140k on it and its the best car ive owned. Yeah its got its little quirks but it was well taken care of.

[@davidwayne9982]

I"M OLD-- so won't be driving all that much anyway-- 30 miles to town and back couple times a month- and maybe a short day trip once or twice a year... at most.. I just want it because it's fun- and if weather turns bad- they go like stink through the snow etc..

[@richfarfugnuven6308]

Nice looking car. I do not trust BMW/Mini reliability at all though...

[@OceanJangda]

Looking good Tommy! I’m still not mad about how much money I spent on maintenance... I love my Tacoma but I miss the mini every day!

[@charles-davidberube1174]

Just got myself a mini cooper s r56 2010. 1 month into ownership, so far so good. Touching wood. But it’s a blast to drive! Had to change the valve cover upon getting it for 90$ but that’s it… for now 😂

[@danieltomash3031]

how’s it going now, I am planning to buy the same car

[@JulienHerrmann]

@@danieltomash3031 I've had my mini for about a month, no issues, a ton of fun to drive, good gas mileage, HIGHLY recommend it

[@darexdarex]

Only the 2014- onward MINI hardtops are reliable; that is, only F-series MINIs. Earlier ones are a mixed bag, and a dice-roll.

[@discerningmind]

I did a lot of research prior to buying my '16 F-series, and I believe that what you said is completely accurate. Each generation has been improved. I bought the freshest one I could afford, and it had 24,000 miles. Other than having confidence in it due to low mileage, I've considered it a luxury for me and expecting to pay for repairs when it needs them. With this thinking I'm adverting shock and horror when it breaks, because its breaking has become part of the plan.

[@bradcomis1066]

Great rim choice, but if you want to do AutoX why wouldn’t you get proper UHP tires?

[@michaelmorrow9927]

In the vid it looks like you are sporting the infamous water pump leak coming out the driver side wheel well there onto the ground. So, the cooper would not be a good idea for gig work then ?

[@aaronbritt2025]

Just bought a 2005 Mini s JCW convertible for $5500. Only 92k miles, which I consider pretty low for 17 year old car. It's in near mint condition with the only damage being a couple of rock chips on the nose.

[@acamilop]

My 09 cooper s had its engine grenaded at 50k miles, Mini replaced the engine under warranty,. That engine ate itself just 9 months later. So much fun to drive, but terrible to own. Stay away.

[@DarkstarDarth]

Had a few bmw's in the past and had swore never to buy any beemer products. Swtched to an MX5 and prius prime and never looked back. When mini contracts toyota, honda or mazda to supply its engines then ill buy two minis.

[@RoverRacer913]

Oh hey we now have matching wheels, time to race my Fiesta at the track now, let's do it! A little budget hot hatch shoot out

[@TheMr3742]

Wait the newer versions are not reliable too?

[@OldManGoatHair.6985]

Yes, my 2010 MINI is fun to drive, gokart handling, racing inspired center mounted tach, small and nimble. But they are junk! There is not enough room in the comments section to list all the issues I've had with my MINI. It's been towed three times, ignitors replaced twice, engine ECU replaced, sway bar bushings, oil leak, throttle module, wheel bearings, EVAP valves, thermostat... And this year the AC gave up the ghost. Would I buy another onre? Aboslutey not.

[@estebanhenriquez3491]

PREACH! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Bro, as an owner who's MINI just took a dump on him, I second this motion. BMW has managed to never get me in a MINI ever again! As rough as mine is driving I am committed into driving it to the ground because I'm stuck with it as my daily and, by God, I vow not to drop another dime on it. It ain't worth it!

[@dog.dad501]

Did you do the 100k mi service??? Really critical to keeping it running. The turbo needs to be serviced as well, a rebuilt turbo runs about $1500 a new oem assembly runs about $4500....

[@turk3sh]

The issues reminds me of my MK6 GTI. Two water pumps, replaced the tensioner, coil packs.

[@rightlanehog3151]

"Grenade the engine" and "catastrophic failure" are such evocative terms.

[@bradleymeyer9775]

I'm not a Mini fan, but I'm glad you like the car, also at 13:58, that second generation Honda Odyssey in the background, it reminds me of the one my parents had that I used to drive, even though it is a minivan, I actually kinda liked it.

[@marcellegardner4906]

It was manafactured by Mettoy.

[@jasoncassel364]

Hey Tommy quick trick for Vinyl use a needle or safety pin and poke a hole to get the air out and flat edge the Vinyl down.

[@stevemoore457]

Great suggestion!

[@karelpeeters7535]

i own a r56 n14 mini my self my chain has been awsome the car has 136k km on the clock and i changed the orriginal chain and it looked brand new but mine has had a lot of cooling and oil consumption issues (fixed the oil by canging the valve stem seals and the cooling was fixed and now the headgasket went so i will cange it soon )

[@mikeh.8155]

hey Tommy, any update on the Mini??????

[@davidwayne9982]

HEY- I notieced what looks like FRESH LEAKS-- or did you just wash it and it was DRIPPING???

[@GFS695]

I want to get one by I need something reliable for traveling to and from work, very hesitant.

[@pemtax557]

Well done … I learned a lot and appreciate your honesty about some of it’s shortcomings. Thanks and cheers …

[@Marathon13240]

I feel like these cars get a bad wrap because most people who buy them honestly don't care about maintenance or just don't know and don't want to pay for synthetic oil and feel like they can go 15k miles between each oil change, don't change the coolant, sparkplugs, etc.

[@dylanhernandez973]

100 k on my r56 2012 and only problem I only ever had was the computer replacement

[@vikingaero]

These cars really were The British Alfa Romeo - a real love/hate relationship. The main problem is the French engine and French components which make the car utterly dire. Tommy has mentioned the plastic camchain guide problems but has glossed over others that people in the MINI community endured - High Pressure Fuel Pump - will fail; rear brakes - pads wear out twice as fast as the fronts; calipers front and rear prone to seizing; plastic valve cover - leaks, coolant tank - leaks, thermostat housing - leaks, oil sump and automatic transmission sump originally used a paper/metal gasket - leaks a lot!; oil housings - leaks; direct injection engine - coking of valves which causes poor running; you can fix the camchain tensioner seal, then the car will leak elsewhere - I have so much oil on my drive. And the biggest problem - oil consumption which can be horrific - 1 litre per 500 miles. Much as I loved my car, it had to go. The guy who loved it the most was my trusted mechanic who would get £3-500 miles every month.

[@punk86]

Can't you just use aftermarket chains and tensioners, and coil packs to have better reliability?

[@toddrobertson1398]

I love the rims and mirrors.

[@bmwloco]

Bride has a Cooper S Countryman All 4. Biggest pile of steaming BMW flotsam around. Clutch - she has NEVER lost a clutch. AC just went out. $1400, and no promise of a fix. She can't wait to get rid of it. Too many freaking BMW emblems on it.

[@94SexyStang]

Yep, Mini isn't the problem......BMW is!!

[@bmwloco]

@@94SexyStang Bingo!

[@rafael.x.rivera]

Y’all im scared lol cause I’m supposed to be getting a 09 Clubman Mini S with about 119-120K miles on it and I just hope everything runs decently well on the car but I’m so scared now lol

[@sbee7878]

How did it work out ? Was planning to buy one tomorrow..

[@evenmoe3826]

@@sbee7878 same here…