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Only the "non S" MINIs have the CVT transmission. If the 2004 MINI that you're considering buying is a MINI (not an S), it most likely has the CVT. I have an '06 MINI Cooper S and it has a 6-spd automatic transmission, but it is NOT the CVT.
Also, after I used up my stock runflat tires, I went to non-runflats. I carry a fix-a-flat and a compact portable air compressor in the boot (trunk). So far, I've not had to change any flat tires the past three years. Oh, and MINIs (non S) have a spare so there's no worry about having to buy runflats. The "S" doesn't have room for a spare underneath because of the dual exhaust whereas the "non S" carries it there. Runflats sell for $164 or less at Discount Tire and other comparable tire stores. Here's an example of runflats for sale: Kumho Ecsta SPT KU31 Run Flat, 195/55R-16 87V XL RF and they can be found by this link: http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/findTireDetail.do?c=1&rcz=98446&ar=55&rf=true&r- d=16&rc=WASINT&cs=195&dVeh=dVeh&tc=KUMHF2&yr=2004&pc=33729&cf=false&vid=007436&s- w=false
Thank for the advice.
What I don't need is a transmission problem. I need a new clutch, but I may sell the car rather than make this repair.
I am awaiting word from the dealer and Mini Corporate about what they are going to do to address this issue.
Anyone else have a similar problem with an '08?
Any ideas on a fix, or anyone have a similar screeching sound with their Cooper S?
StepWisdom
now i dont know what to do. i love the car but it will be just a pit of money. do i get a lawyer involved what. so confused and so lost
03 mini CVT
However, like I said there are not many complaints from 06.
I dump your car as it is a money pit.I wouldn't own one below an 06.
The Fiesta is coming to compete with the Mini for alot less. The Titanium Ford mini outsells the Mini in Europe. I ' not a ford person but it's the rage now.
The SF Mini people are telling me that the warranty will not cover this .....now as I dig a little deeper i find out that this is the third time that this has happen!!! The previous owner lost their clutch at 8000 miles and then again at 11000mile......what does this tell us. Now I also have a friend that works with BMW as a car mechanic and he tells me that the clutch is a weak component with Mini. I am waiting to see a Mini Rep from Northern Ca ....any ideas out there?
MY mini is about to be on its third clutch and not even on 20000 miles. This is beyond the word..rediculas.
Are you still dealing with your law suit?
Please let me know whats going on...my email is boxingday26@gmail.com.
Thanks
Anthony
.
I just met with the Service manager of SF Mini and with the Mini Rep for northern Cal.
After a not so well presented repertoire from the Rep explaining how the problem with the clutch was not a manufactures issue I proceeded to re-educate this man on the fact that any clutch that can't last past 10,000 miles is ridiculous regardless of how bad a persons driving is. This clutch has been replace at 8000 miles and then again at 11000 and now with a new European driver (for the last 3000 miles) that has driven only stick shift for 26 years. I did a lot of research here on this site and found out about a class action law suit .......(I need more info)...Anyway I told these guys that I was not paying their estimate of $3600 plus tax......They had the car taken apart..without my permission....They had to replace either with the broken parts or new ones???? I offer to pay for the new parts!!!
We had a DEAL.....$1300 for me ....way less than $4000. I also told them that I am selling the car ASAP. Its lots of fun to drive but this will happen again and again.$$$$$$
Good Luck People.
Coopers have always had problems with their clutches and trannies. Plus the Brits can't build cars.
People think they are cute or you get alot for your money. You have to have deep pockets . People buy them ,then write glowing reviews after 100 mile up to 5k. Then the clutch goes and they get on here for help. Mini has the worse realiability . VW is now better rated than the Mini,and thats sayin' something.
Mini buyers not all do not do their homework. :shades:
My 2004 is still on the original clutch at close to 60,000 miles and neither myself nor the person I sold it to have ever had a problem with it.
That car saw some hard driving too during some autocrossing and a more then a couple of burnouts.
The estimated cost of repairs is $6,600 for the following:
clutch
tire arms
tire bolts
tires
and more
Backstory:
I bought the car, a 2004 Mini Copper S at a dealership. The car was Certified Pre-Owned and I paid for an extended warranty as well. I thought that I had covered my bases with warranties, inspections, certifications, & the added assurance of a reputable dealership. For me, buying a Mini meant that I was getting value, quality, and fun.
Unfortunately, my experience indicates something different...
Day 1 : I park the car in the garage and find that the bumper is two-toned, almost orange and yellow. It looks like someone used a home air brush kit. The bumper issue was not visible in the bright day light. Awesome.
Day 256: I hear a squeaking sound in the tire well. The tensioner, crankshaft pulley/ bolt are replaced. They also change the oil. Thanks goodness it's covered.
But why another issue?
Day 500 (+/-): Checkout Mini Cooper Soap Box for more details & video.
I really want resolution to this issue. Does anyone have advice?
I will give your suggestion a try.
have you had your car repaired yet?
If not, it is probably worth talking with the dealership about the repairs & cost especially if you have had all of your previous work done by the dealership. Check out the comments by Ceee Ceee in the previous thread.
Unfortunately, sometimes you have to be the super squeaky wheel.
PS. I had most of my service at MINI but the closest dealer was over 50 miles away, so I had oil changes done at a BMW service shop closer to home.
Thanks for the response, is your MINI fixed now?
Yup, my car has been fixed.
I took it to a third party and learned mid-repair stream that MINI Corp. was willing to help/assist with the cost. OUCH, it was too late!
In any event, I am now trying to get a good trade-in. If you have any ideas or tips please let me know as I am encountering some friction from the dealership.
Well, I am off to work on my "MINI Cooper Happy Endings" trade-in campaign.
Thanks and special thanks to "ramquist" for the great advice.
A.
I have driven only 600 miles so far, but lately I have started to hear a clattering sound from the clutch/flywheel? when the car is at stop with the gear in neutral.
Can anyone tell me if this is something that may be related to all the clutch problems posted in this forum and should be looked at immediately by a mechanic?
And would you recommend to take it to a dealer or private repair shop?
Thanks,
I would greatly appreciate your help.
Candace
candacegoldstein@gmail.com