[davederby]

Hello

I'm looking at either a 2013 or 2014 Cooper S 2.0

I am a bit confused about how to avoid the R56 / N14 model which seems to have reliability issues

It sounds a bit like the Gen 2 is nippier and lighter but is it the case it is also across the board less reliable than F56?

Just looking for some peace of mind before making my purchase - budget is £9500 and buying from Approved Mini only

 

[davederby]

I'm not able to post a link but if you search neo bros mini parts the site explains years and engine codes N14, N16 etc.

Ah brilliant, thanks - so according to that, anything 3DR hatch 2014 is F56, that's much easier to grasp

How about the reliability question though - is it genuinely worth buying newer, is it that simple, or is there more involved in getting a Gen2 without common issues, or at least to check from FSH they have been addressed?

 

[davederby]

When I bought my Cooper 2011 R56, 55K miles , I budgeted for a timing chain and clutch replacement. Local garage quoted me £600 for the chain and £350 for clutch.

OK that's cool to know, there's loads more choice for R56 obviously but the general reliability issues have put me off taking the risk