Potential first time Mini owner in a couple days..
 

Hi Everyone,

I have been obsessed with Mini's for around 7 years now. I squeal whenever I see them on the road. After using my parents cars for years, it is time for me to buy my very own car. Wednesday I am headed to test drive a used Mini that I have a deposit on. I have already negotiated the loan details and have reached a comfortable rate..it's just a matter of test driving and completing the paperwork! It is really a dream come true for me.

The only thing that concerns me is the price to fix issues that come up with Mini's. It seems like they happen quite a lot. I would like to know from all you Mini owners if this really is the case? I am on a tight budget, however can comfortably afford the 300/month for car and insurance payments.

A little more about the car:

2005 Base model

41K miles

Has had 3 owners, full Carfax listed online with no accidents and no major repairs needed

Brilliant Blue with Eagle wings along the sides

$14,800

Any advice for me is greatly appreciated! And I am excited to meet everyone and learn more about these amazing little cars!

the auro trannies /power steering are pricey to fix If budget it tight I'd think about an extended warranty
I just spent $1000 on a power steering fix

Check the clutch and transmission as they tend to go bad at about 50,000 miles and clutch with flywheel is about $4,000 installed. I found out the hard way.