Just got my first MINI and I fear I may have made a bad decision. It's a well-optioned base model 2002. Very clean and attractive silver and black...love the look and styling. My concern is for the transmission. My carfax shows its had two tranny failures (replacements) and just had it's 3rd installed last fall...I baby it for sure, but am concerned a tranny will be more than half of what I paid for it. I'm gonna stay positive and perhaps sell it in the spring...I love it, but I'm afraid of it.

 

Your fears are not false. Just joined today, but have been reading the thread/posts on CVT probs. MANY on here want a class action lawsuit. Check it out....
Glad to have gotten a 5 speed !!!

 

I have driven both the manual and automatic versions. I can't say i have much confidence in the automatics, but the manual is great. Got an 2012 S with a six-speed, love it to death. Older cars are always going to have potential issues. If you do have transmission issues, just remember take it to someone reputable and don't sacrifice quality unless you plan on turning it over the next day. Good luck, hopefully it holds.