[scottie123]

Hello

I have just found your lovely site Sorry, I am sure this has been asked many times before! but I was hoping you could offer some advice on buying.

After many hours checking out different cars as a suitable 1st car for my 17 year old son, we went to see a mini one at a local garage yesterday. It didn't take long to decide that this would be the perfect car if we can find one within our price range!!

I think it will have to be a 2002/3 by the going rate, can you tell me what we would be missing out on re the 2004 face lift? Also I've seen that on the earlier cars we need to check the paint, if trim rattles and there were probs with engine and gearbox and that sometimes radio draining battery, is any of this valid?

I have had a good look on autotrader at what's available and it seems we can get one of this age with 1 or 2 owners and fairly low miles (but a bit concerned that I've read the mileage can easily be adjusted.) We are not made of money either so would have to be sure that the car we buy is sound!!

What sort of advice can you give (please ) on looking and buying? I have read that we should look for one with the salt or pepper pack.

Can I also ask? on the one we went to see yesterday, one of the little plastic lenses on the front was cracked, and I noticed that at the gap between panels where the bonnet and side panel meet, the plastic trim that surrounds the wheel did not line up, on both sides. I asked the guy about it as I thought it looked shabby and he said they were all like that. I have had a look at photos on autotrader and they look to match up, just wondering about this???

Anyhow any info or help you could give would be appreciated. I probably have 2/3 months to find a car happy to buy sooner if the right one comes up.

Thanks scottie

[Harpo]

There is one golden rule when buying a car: If in any doubt, walk away. No exceptions.

It may take a little longer to source the car of your/his dreams, but the wait will be worth it.

If you are buying from a Mini dealership, they will attend to any issues and concerns, and you can use these as initial ammo to begin negotiating.

Do get your son to undertake the 'Pass Plus' scheme - it provides worthy development of additional skills.

And finally take out a RoSPA assessment - it will be the best £10 you ever spend.

PS. When you have made your purchase, get your son to post pictures on Mini2.