2002 BMW Mini Cooper review from North America
"Buy if you like spending money on performance"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
2 clutches have been replaced, one at 12,500 miles and one at 51,000.
Transmission was replaced at 51,000 miles.
Wheel was replaced at 1,000 (tiny hole leaking in metal).
Glove box replaced at 5,000.
Fan replaced at 30,000 miles.
Brakes replaced at 30,000 miles and at 75,000 miles.
Electric windows repaired.
Waiting in shop right now because it won't go into gear.
General comments?
I love the way this car drives; it handles better than any other car I have driven (and I have driven a lot!).
However, I don't think the costs of repairs is worth the performance. I have a 2002 made within the first few months, so I am not sure if that affects the reliability, but it is terribly unreliable. Much of this work was done under warranty, but it had to be towed 160 miles away 3 times. It has caused more than a few headaches.
In addition, I have had to purchase the last clutch for 2,500! (It was repaired in San Francisco).
I love driving my car when it's running, but I am afraid it is time to move on before the engine falls out.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 2/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 0/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 700 miles |
| Date of Entry | 8th December, 2007 |