I just got a 2004 mini. So far so good.. I have a few questions since this is my first mini.

1. How hard is to replace the stereo? I have installed aftermarket stereos before on my old car. Had no problems, but I had someone mention that minis are a bit more complicated. I figured i will have to get a harness and an antenna adapter. Anything else I should be aware of?

2. My doors don't stay open, is this normal?

3. The vanity mirrors (lid?) doesn't stay up. They don't seem to be damaged, but the person using it needs to hold it up.

4. Is it worthy buying the mini service guide?

5. I have the base model, and it works great for downtown.. would be nice if I could add some power to it.. anything I can do about that? Intake?

so far i love the car, and i'm glad I got it. I bought it with the intention of keeping it only for a couple of years, but when I sell it I might just get another one.

 

1) http://www.scosche.com/car-audio/veh...l=COOPER%0D%0A

2) Theres a black plastic between the hinges that holds them open

3) Mine latch

4) Shop I picked up a bentley manual for $20 on ebay

5) Intake Exhaust and headers are available

 

Thanks for your response, and the link for the harness. I found a mini service guide on ebay and amazon, but it costs as much as college book

I will search around some more.

 

I just got my 04 Saturday and I am having the same issue with the doors and the vanity mirrors. I agree it doesn't appear the vanity mirrors are broken. I don't know I can't make the doors stay open but they don't stay open everytime.
I am loving my car so far.

 

The vanity mirror issue is apparently a common one. The mirror on my '03 is having issues as well, doesn't stay completely shut or completely open. I haven't tackled fixing it yet. Mine don't latch like the later models.

As far as manuals, there is also a Haynes manual available for current model Minis. It is printed in the UK for right hand drive models, but there is a lot of commonality. Bought my copy on Amazon.com.