Hello guys.

I'm considering buying an early R56 Cooper S (December 06 so pretty much one of the first ones) It has 26k on the clock and is in white (which seems to be the hardest colour to get second hand!) with Chili pack & sunroof.

I currently have an '04 plate Cooper which I'll be trading in.
My only concern is with it being such an early build of the new shape and I'm worried it could have problem because of this. (I've read through some of the forum about known issues.)

I'd be buying from a main dealer so would have 1 years warranty.

So should I go for such an early build?
Any advice or opinions would be appreciated!

Thanks!

I have had my 56 Cooper S for a few months now and the only issues I have suffered are that the brakes needed replacing at 35K, new tyres and the dreaded timing chain rattle issue (which seems to be now solved).

I would just make sure that if the car has a loud rattle in the morning, get the dealer to sort it out whilst you have the year warranty. (£800 I was quoted to fix it out of warranty!)

Thanks - I might see if I can get them to extend the warranty on it or look at getting a 3rd party warranty in the second year...

I've had mine built in September 2006 for 13 months now. It was one of the first 100 built.

There is a recall to fix mounts for the sunroof in if you haven't got them already. Mine got done and you can't tell any difference and was offered to me by my local mini dealer.

TLC is worth having if it's got it. And TLC XL too.

Warranty is a must. My panoramic sunroof went requiring a new frame and £1400 repair bill which was covered but they nearly did not. Also electrics like interior lights failed due to a snapped cable. Also had a sticking door handle which got replaced.

I got my car from a VW garage for a good price. Had to go to Mini for most fixes.

Cracking car and still love mine especially as now modifying it.