Thinking of buying an 04 mini w/ 85,000 miles - MINI Cooper Forum

joewp · #1 (**permalink**) Feb 13th, 2013, 05:13 AM

Hey All,

I'm thinking of buying an 04 mini with 85,000 miles on it. It's a 5spd. I've read many things about the reliability of the clutch and such, and was wondering if this is a good investment? It would be my main vehicle, and get maybe 10 miles of city driving a day (washington d.c.) but also occasional long trips as I'm a musician.

Also, what should I look for when checking the car out? Anything in particular? And anything I should know in general?

Many thanks!
Joe

gus6 · #2 (**permalink**) Feb 13th, 2013, 07:54 AM

Mines just hit the 85000 mark not had many issues only the clutch fork been one of the best cars I've owned

mab01uk · #3 (**permalink**) Feb 13th, 2013, 11:50 AM

This should help:
MotoringFile MINI R50/R53 Buyers Guide

Caveman · #4 (**permalink**) Feb 13th, 2013, 03:40 PM

You're better off buying a 2005 or 2006 Cooper model as it will have a Getrag transmission rather than the problematic Midlands unit.

mab01uk · #5 (**permalink**) Feb 13th, 2013, 05:05 PM

The 2005 facelift Mk1 MINI with later bumpers as built from July 2004 has the 5 speed Getrag gearbox, the exact build month/year is on a label under the bonnet/hood.