Hello all,

I'm looking to buy a Used Mini Cooper S. Possibly just a Cooper. My budget is around $5,000. I've been searching for a couple weeks now and everyone keeps asking more then what KBB value is. Is this common? Do they usually sell more then the KBB value? Or, are people just delusional?

My other question is: What are the common problems with Mini's I should be looking out for?

thank you for your time,
Shane

 

2004 Mini Cooper S 6 speed

Here is mine, I have a lot of mods, lots of fun
http://bgky.craigslist.org/cto/5021272576.html

 

Thank you for your reply

see, yours is right on point with KBB. Here's some examples of what's available in my area.

asking $5,300 - KBB value in excellent condition $4,434
Mini Cooper 2004

asking $5,500 - KBB value in excellent condition (which it's not) is $4,631
MINI, R53, MANY new parts

asking $5,395 - KBB value in excellent condition = $3,800
Must sell YELLOW MINI COOPER Just Smogged ! Must Sell

 

KBB is more of a reference on selling points rather than a guide per say. Just because KBB posts that doesn't mean that is what they're going for in your area. For example, my car (none Mini) blue books at about 10-9 grand. If I wanted I could get about 15-18 grand as a private sale because that is what my car would go for in the condition it is in. You can see consistent numbers of what they're posting them at because that is what they're going for in that area. It's all about supply and demand.

That being said, you can check out our tech articles here to help get an idea of basic maintenance needs as well as any DIY future help. Good luck with your purchase!

-Luccia