[J.J.]

I'm currenlty thinking about trading my current vehicle in for a Mini. I'm a little concerned that all the Mini's on ebay have low mileage and was wondering if there are any consitant problems with these vehicles. This leads me to three questions:

1. Is there certain model years I should absolutely avoid?
2. Do you think the used Mini's on the car lots are "lemons" and were traded in b/c of this?
3. I like to keep cars for awhile. Is this a reliable car (i.e. how many miles can expect to get out of this ride)?

Thanks for the help!
JJ

[Z1GZAG N]

Lemons can come in any car and any year.

Most new models are the most prone to have problems, but that is no guarantee that a first year produced Mini won't turn out to be the best car you ever own. Then again a used car that the previous owner never had a speck of trouble could end up being your worst nightmare.

If you're buying a used car, the main thing is to look it over with a fine tooth comb. Look for overpray around the rubber seals and chrome. This is signs of previous damage.

Buying a car with over 30,000 miles is much more likely to have problems than a car with 10,000 miles, plus the 10,000 mile car most likely will have some warranty left.

As for purchasing a used car, you must compare the costs to new. If you are borrowing the money, you can get much better interest rates on a new vehicle. So, a new Mini that costs 2,000 bucks more than a used one might end up with the same payment.

A lot of people have bought the Mini because they thought it was cute. Once they bought it and the new thrill wore off, they start complaining about the ride and end up trading back up to a bigger softer riding car. So, as long as it hasn't been wrecked, I'd say you should have pretty good luck with a low mileage Mini.

Also, shop around if you look to buy new. Places like California may still be charging over retail, you can easily find S models and Convertibles at or below MSRP else where.

Good Luck