Used BMW Made MINI Is Priced Lower Than A Classic Mini

You might be surprised to find out that a classic old Mini is drive-able and in reasonable condition sells for more than a modern used MINI from BMW.

So, lets look at a used modern MINI from BMW to buy today.

R50

BMW management launched their Mini with lots of movie and TV series product placements to bring back its glory days and it worked. However, they picked the wrong powertrain partner. Yes, the first model, the R50 (facelift was R52 and R53) used a ‘Chrysler’ powertrain that came from South America ….. oooops big mistake.

When buying a used early MINI Cooper S R53, focus on its service history, condition, and potential for future maintenance. Consider the last generation, year 2005 and 2006 models, which are known for slightly better reliability. Check for rust, signs of past damage, and ensure the VIN and body numbers match. Prices starts from a low RM22k before negotiations.

Inspect the engine, gearbox, and brakes (especially rear pads due to brake bias). A John Cooper Works model (which might be priced from RM35k) is desirable if your budget allows, and consider a facelift model with a documented clutch replacement. If buying a cheaper option with higher mileage, ensure a full documented supercharger service has been done recently.

R56

In late November 2006 the R56 came and this time BMW shared the powertrain with Peugeot (it was called the ‘Prince’ engine). Only the rare in Malaysia diesel version of this MINI had a BMW engineered engine.

R56 Updated

Then in late 2013 a bigger and better equipped Mini arrived and this time it was powered by BMW designed engines. You will find either a 1.5L twin turbo or 2.0L twin turbo, both petrol powered and much more reliable.

Now, with all the above models, the JCW (John Cooper Works) model is very special, fast, communicative and hard to find a good unit used today. So, we will look at the non JCW variants.

What to check when buying used

Any used Mini that overheats when tested is a car to be ignored. Virtually every part of the cooling system, from the plastic water pump and coolant delivery pipes to the fan and supplementary water pump, triggered recalls during the cars’ lifespan and will cause corresponding issues with the engine.

Suspension noise is likely due to worn wishbone and sway bar bushings. Easy to fix but an expense the used-car buyer doesn’t need.

Turbocharged cars used primarily for short journeys and rarely driven at highway speeds to rid the oil of impurities need to be serviced and have their filters replaced more often than stated in service schedules. Every 5,000km is seen as safe for a car that spends its life in the suburbs.

Coil pack failures are a likely reason for MINI cars to stutter under acceleration or trigger an ‘Engine Check’ warning symbol. Replacing the original Bosch coils in early cars was recommended by BMW.

Buying a used MINI Cooper powered by the N14 engine (found in 2007-2013 Cooper S and JCW models) can be a gamble. While these cars can be fun to drive, the N14 engine is known for reliability issues. If you’re set on a used MINI with an N14, prioritise finding one that has been meticulously maintained and preferably one that has already had some of the common problems addressed.

• Timing Chain: The timing chain tensioner is a known weak point and can fail, leading to engine damage.

• Carbon Buildup: The N14 engine is prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves and ports, which can affect performance and fuel efficiency.

• Turbocharger: Turbocharger failures can occur, especially on higher mileage cars.

• Oil Leaks: Fluid leaks, particularly from the oil filter housing, are common.

• Fuel Pump: Fuel pump failures can also occur.

When purchasing a used R56 MINI Cooper S with the N18 engine, focus on models from 2013 onwards, as they feature the improved N18 engine with better reliability compared to the earlier N14. Thoroughly inspect for common issues like potential timing chain tensioner problems (rattling sound), oil leaks, coolant leaks, and worn engine mounts. Additionally, check for general wear and tear on the interior and exterior, and verify the functionality of all electronics.

The N18 powered MINI is the one to buy and prices start from RM49k upwards. Plenty of units on sale today and most are private imported units vis AP holders which means you will need to check the cars properly. (this could be accident repaired cars from overseas or even flood damaged cars).

With cars that were sold by BMW Malaysia, (registration card will show ‘Kenderaan Import Baru’) you can ask for service history.