I've got a buddy looking to buy a 2003 Mini Cooper S, and I was just wondering if there are any reliability issues associated with the Coopers of this time period. Thanks. He will be getting a manual.

 

My folks had a 2003 (or 4 can't remember) Cooper S. I didn't like it very much, but I will say that it was pretty much bulletproof reliability wise.

 

Had no real problems with mine although it was fairly low miles (under 65k when i sold it). I have heard that the supercharger has to be replaced at some point, i believe around 100k? but don't quote me on that. I guess it should be expected though.

They are def. LOADS of fun, plenty of power for a car that weighs practically nothing. You'd also be surprised what you can fit in the car with the rear seats folded down. I managed to fit a 5' tall storage shelving unit in the back.

 

drove a modified S first generation. it was a fun car but not serious performance by any means. kind of like a small VW GTI.

i think there are a lot of hot hatches out there. not sure why someone would want a older mini. resale is too high on these cars. personally, i am not too fond of the cute looks either.

 

i had an '03 that i bought w/ 60k miles - it burned down the ground 2 days later on the side of the road.

agree w/ djantlive - waste of money to buy a used one when you can get a brand new one, worry-free, for so little

- chuck

 

I own a 2006 cooper S conv that we purchased new. Just hit 33K miles on it. Few problems so far in addtion to the usual tires and brakes.

1. top motors squeak when putting up and down top. No big deal just annoying.
2. Electronic gremlins from time to time. Sometimes car gets confused when putting up top, locking doors, etc with fob.
3. seats are very uncomfortable on long drives
4. dash is starting to develop rattles and squeaks. Also car is getting very loose especially with top down. Much worse than when new.
5. Drivers seat is developing cracks (33K miles and stored in garage should not happen)

Few other things but they were associated with lack of miles and my wifes short commute (1 mile when she doesnt walk due to rain, cold, etc)

$10,000 question.. would I buy another one? Probably not. We bought it on impulse one day and I after took delivery and actually drove the car for a few weeks noticed all sorts of odd things. Switch layout is annoying, power windows make no sense on location and function.

Seems that newer models have sorted out many of the bugs and the cars are much better. Hope this helps

 

Thanks for the help everyone. Rep to all

 

pretty OT but whatever: my gf had a well optioned 06 NON-s and that was a seriously fun car for what it is. on downtown city streets and longer drives. so efficient, practical, and nimble, with quality/features/style.

i'd love to drive an S

 

Ill sell ya mine, just dont tell my wife.

 

Mine is a 2003 S, which I has been extensively modified. Still love that car

Never had an real issues on mine. Will never sell it either.

I think you would enjoy it!