2001 BMW Mini Cooper review from UK and Ireland

Gearbox broke down on the motorway, leaving me stuck in 5th gear, after only 7800 miles (still in the garage as replacement parts may take anything up to 2 months).

Engine went flat if I didn't drive it for a few days (happened 3 times), required a replacement MD player and a replacement engine management module in the first couple of months of ownership.

Passenger seat adjuster got stuck had to be replaced.

Fuel gauge not accurate (part has been on order for about 2.5 months without any word).

Dashboard squeaks (no hope of any repair).

One-touch electric windows doesn't always work.

Front windows get wet... on the inside.

Rear of car got vandalised, badge got nicked, was quoted GBP1000 to fix it!! Badge only cost GBP10!!

Rubber on pedals starting to look very worn.

I love this car... if only I could rely on it.

I love the looks, my big 16 inch white wheels look great with the white roof, white mirrors and dark metallic blue paint. I get loads of compliments and admiring looks. The handling is excellent with the optional sports plus suspension I have, if a little firm on most roads. Performance is not shattering, but adequate, would love the Cooper S. Loads of gorgeous little design features, the toggle switches, the way the window drops a little into the frameless doors (just like my Dad's 3 series coupe!), illuminated sun visors, plush roof lining, pressure sensitive boot handle, hydraulic arms on the bonnet lid, etc.

Negatives (apart from everything that has gone wrong) include the tiny boot, the noisy power steering (especially from the outside, it sounds like a radio control car!) and the lack of a glove box. Optional extras were pricey, all my extras took it from GBP11600 to GBP14200, nearly enough for the Cooper S!!