Hi
I'm new to the forum and need to find out what I might be getting into if/when I buy a Mini. In my younger days I was very involved with British cars (particularly Triumphs). But the new Mini is now BMW. I've heard everything from their great to junk. Here's what I think I have discovered. There's problems with the automatics, especially 03's. Struts mushrooming are common and there seems to be clutch problems across a wide variety of years. Failing window motors and power steering pumps, thermostat housings and cracked windshields seem to be common too. I test drove a couple yesterday. I want a Clubman but if I get one it will most likely be just a Base Cooper. I think I'd like to get an something around an 07 with fairly low miles, although there is an 05 with very low miles available that would suit. I love the performance of the S but am somewhat restricted in budget so that's probably out. I prefer a stick (preferebly 6 speed) but the mentioned clutch problems (not to mention it's cost) really concerns me. From what I've read the automatic isn't getting rave reviews for reliability either. As for the strut towers, I'm sure someone out there has a cure. (do the strut braces available from Mini resolve this?). Power steering pumps are another issue. I've heard of shields that can be purchased that protect it from road debris (is that the cause of the failure). Also, the run flat tires are out, don't like them anyway.
What else is problematic with these cars and are certain years better than others? What about performance upgrades for a base model? An additional 25-30 horses would go a long way in helping to pass at highway speeds. I really want something that is going to be reasonably reliable. I can live with small stuff here and there, that's pretty normal. But constant clutch replacement at a couple grand a pop does concern me. Even my old TR-4 was good for at least 80k before replacing. I appreciate all the info I can get. Thanks in advance