[skapegoat]

Hi all,
My name is john and I'm from Ireland, Near Dublin.
I'm travelling to The UK soon (3/4 weeks) to look for a mini cooper sport 2002 model.

I'm looking for a grey one with as many extras as possible, the chili pack, leather etc.

Ill be near Dudley/Birmingham and will be looking on this site, in auto trader and trade garages.

I would appreciate advice, warnings and any help from you lads.

I would prefair to buy from a dealer but if the right car comes along at the right price ill take it.

Is there any points that the 2002 mini S are weak on?
I have heard the steering, gearbox can be faults and can someone tell me what PAS failure is?
What should i look out for on a mini service history?

Also what about spotting stolen/finance owed cars? As we have different rules in Ireland.

Thanks a million in advance.
Also i have looked at the for sale section and have my eye on one or two......

[BrianDromey]

Hi John, welcome!
I don't think there are too many week points really. The gearbox is fine usually, but because it is not in production anymore parts are reconditioned if things go wrong, as opposed to brand new.
PAS is passive, active safety - things like airbags, etc.
Most MINIs are serviced by BMW from new because of the TLC package. Tis mighty value.
If you buy within the MINI dealer network they will do all the HPI checks for you. HPI checks the history of the car, verifies the milage, checks for accident/write-off history and finance outstanding, etc. The AA do a similar service. I would definately recommend one. I think they are about £35.
Naturally have a look for all the usual things like paintwork, panel fit etc. Check everything works too.
Here in the UK the dealers are a lot more keen to do a deal, so that might take you by surprise if you haven't shopped for a car in the UK before. Expect to be introduced to a 'business manager' after the test drive. I would recommend any of the Cooper Group of garages, the service there is excellent and they are quite open to do a deal. Id say try to contact someone at the dealership first. If you have seen a car you like some dealerships will pick you up from the station, etc.

If you have any more questions, just drop me a PM, and John, Puntos do suck!

Brian.

[skapegoat]

Thanks Brian, how much are dealers willing to deal for a straight cash buy?
Also where can i get a list of these cooper garages? I am going to be near birmingham and Edinburgh soon so i am looking for some around those locations.
Im guessing the best thing to do is to rent a car to see a few minis from different garages how much does rental cost?

Im quite interested in one for £8100 in the classifieds by handsy, it seems to be looked after

Only problem is that its now on ebay so it will probably be gone soon
I have just been looking on auto trader but is there anywhere else to look?

I have to import the car back to Ireland and the Government charge VRT vehicle registration tax of about 2800euro to 3600 euro depending on the specific cooper S.

Do the AA do that service without being a member?
Ill have limited time, about 5 day turn around so i have to spot the cars quickly.

I cant seem to pm do i need more posts for that? also whats with all the sponsors??? a bit overkill!

Oh and puntos suck monkey balls!

[skapegoat]

Does anyone know weather i can trensfare a bmw service centre in the uk for one in ireland???