Trying to get one...need advise!!1

[motz_the_lr3]

Hi, I am a newbie here and I am planning to get a countryman for myself in few weeks. I recently moved the bay area and I am still in a process of looking for a job... So as soon as I get a job, I am going to the dealer!

So I am debating to get used or new one as I have a tight budget...My budget is around $26000. I want a Countryman Cooper S but if that is over the budget then I might have to go with the base model.

So my questions are..

1. If I were to get a new or used one with halogen headlights, is it possible for me to buy HID headlight and change them? if so, is it easy swap? or is it difficult and costly?

2. Are the issues with 2011 models with gas indicator and fan running issues (and car not starting) fixed with 2012 models? Should I get a 2012 model to avoid those issues?

3. Does it come with bluetooth without the navigation system?

Anyother advise that I can take before I go into the dealers?


Thanks guys for the help in advance!

Jake

[Blackhawks]

Jake - Can't answer Q1 and Q3, but I definiately would stay away from the 2011's. It really was its first full year of production and I have read too many horror stories with things going wrong (clutch, uphill acceleration hiccup, thermostat, etc).

Good luck and stay away from the base model unless you want grannies and Prius drivers passing you on the highway!

[motz_the_lr3]

Quote: Originally Posted by Blackhawks (original)

Jake - Can't answer Q1 and Q3, but I definiately would stay away from the 2011's. It really was its first full year of production and I have read too many horror stories with things going wrong (clutch, uphill acceleration hiccup, thermostat, etc).

Good luck and stay away from the base model unless you want grannies and Prius drivers passing you on the highway!

Thanks for the reply.

OK I will stay away from 2011 models....
But I can.probably get base model in 2012 within my budget....

I will test drive and see if base model got enough power...

[Blackhawks]

I personally like the grill of the base better myself (i.e. the chrome). I also hate the upside down smirk of the Cooper S. BUT, one drive in the S and you'll simply put a bag over her face and enjoy the long hard ride!

Good luck!

[steeve]

Just get one on an extended test drive. If to do nothing other than see if the fuel economy is acceptable to you. It isnt what BMW / Mini state.

Fitting HID's is possible but too expensive to go down the OEM parts route.