16th Dec 2004, 02:56
I started my driving instructor business about 18 months ago and decided the mini was the car for me. The problems I have had are unbelievable. New clutch at 7,000 miles, another new clutch at 43,000 miles (to mention a few) and have now been told that any parts needed are not guaranteed as I am an instructor and the car is abused. I love the car, but wish I could get better back up, in fact I wish I just didn't have the problems in the first place. I have stuck with the mini because I love it so much, but I'm sorry mini babes, I'm looking round for something more reliable, maybe an MG.
6th Jan 2005, 10:57
Was the comment above about an MG sarcasm? An MG is certainly not anymore reliable than a Mini- it is probably on par.
11th Feb 2006, 18:34
I'm thinking about buying a Mini, but I'm not liking what I am reading on this site. About the clutches, could I get a stronger one?
Thanks in advance.
10th Mar 2006, 04:58
I have been reading the driving school issues with regards to the Mini one and clutch problems. Those that say the clutch was replaced did you have to pay for this or did BMW cough up? I have the same problem at the moment - clutch is on its way out at 30,000 miles and they are saying it is not covered on the warranty. Thanks for responding.
18th Nov 2004, 10:52
I recently passed my driving test. I have a great interest in cars and like the new Mini. I learned to drive in a 1996 Honda Civic 1.4; sure it is old and a bit of an old womans car and it had covered 98,000 miles. My instructor told me she had the only new clutch ever at 82,000 miles. So if a Honda Civic can take abuse from learners, then a Mini should be able to. I have also heard about power steering pumps going on Mini's. For a BMW, this surprises me and the comments others have made above seem like rather lame excuses that mask a car with some serious quality issues.