I need your opinion
 

Hello,
I'm new to this forum. Actually I'm a loyal enthusiast of MB. I own 2, an '04 E500 and an '06 SL500. However I respect and admire the other german engineered vehicles.
I'm looking for your opinion about Mini's reliability. I may have to buy a car for my daughter and I know she loves Mini. For a 16 year old the "cute" factor is the only thing that matters and I agree, it is cute.
Since I would be buying it used I would like to know if I am looking at expensive trips to the stealership. I have the diagnostic tool for MB and it paid for itself tenfold.
Is it easy to do maintenance and regular work or it requires the dealer to unlock things?
I would appreciate any input.