2005 MINI Cooper Consumer Discussions

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: Grooovy [sconant]

  Written by: raybe13 on Jan 15, 2012 3:02:42 AM

  Can someone please send me the URL/web page to where to find the Mini Cooper Recalls and service bulletins for a 2005 mini cooper s automatic? My transmission is changing gears really hard but it is out of warranty. I read that a lot of people were experiencing the same problem, so I was wondering if there was a recall or a free fix for the known issue. Thank you RB ... Read More

• Mini cooper Automatic Transmission CTV Recall class action lawsuit

  Written by: raybe13 on Jan 15, 2012 2:51:54 AM

  That is terrible. My engine also blew up in my 2005 Mini cooper S Automatic. I just had the valves, Valve rods, engine coil, spark plugs, belt pulley, timing belt, cam sensor, etc replaced. The car is so stiff that the aluminum air conditioner tubes rubbed together so much that they rubbed a hole in both the upper and lower aluminum AC hoses and I had to get them replaced. I ... Read More

• mini cooper Automatic Transmission CTV Recall class action lawsuit

  Written by: raybe13 on Jan 5, 2012 7:33:56 PM

  Hello, Does anyone know if there is a recall on the mini cooper automatic transmission or a class action law suit that is going on I can sign up for? I have a 2005 mini cooper s and once the car worms up the the transmission sounds like it slips and then slams into gear. From what I read on forums, this sound like a bad transmission and BMW won't work ... Read More

• Mini Cooper S smell

  Written by: mcs05manu on Aug 31, 2011 10:53:01 PM

  My MCS 2005, 90K Manual starts smelling like rubber burning, then I lost power (the car is moving no more than 3 miles/hour. now after 5 days sitting in the garage, the car is driving normal. I just wanna know what's wrong with the car, and is there anything I need to fix, Thanks.

• Re: Clutch / Transmission 2005 S 88K miles [superduper10]

  Written by: carpedrewum on Aug 10, 2011 11:53:27 PM

  I hope someone gives you a fix soon otherwise you have to save up to buy a new transmission which could cost you close to $7K. The transmission problem is the most common and most expensive of Mini Cooper problems. Best of luck to you mate.

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: love the mini cooper [maddieson]

  Written by: busiris on Jul 19, 2011 7:33:52 AM

  I agree with Plekto. Even though its labeled a MINI, its still a BMW product, and it has BMW performance characteristics, which makes it an extremely fun car to drive. Unfortunately, it also shares another BMW characteristic, which is above average costs of repairs (when/if they are needed). My wife bought a 2005 convertible new, and still owns it. She loves the car, and has been very fortunate in having low ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: 2005 Mini Cooper S on 3rd Clutch [mjbaughman]

  Written by: CeeeeCeeee on May 11, 2011 1:44:00 PM

  The transmission on my 2004 Mini (automatic/basic) went out at 60,000 miles! Must be a magic number! Today, I saw a new model Mini parked next to me. Four doors and quite roomy looking. I only drooled over it for 30 seconds and then wondered what will go wrong with it and when it would happen! Never again!

• Re: 2005 Mini Cooper S on 3rd Clutch [mjbaughman]

  Written by: mjbaughman on May 11, 2011 12:23:49 PM

  Well, the 2005 Mini Cooper S began making clutch noises again this month, one month in front of the extended warranty they provided me with the last fix. The dealership has the car again today and the first words out of their mouth was they only see a few of these cars each year and it is driver issues. I promptly responded I have driven a clutch since I was 13 ... Read More

• Re: 2005 S 37,000 miles Clutch blown [pf_flyer]

  Written by: sable24 on May 2, 2011 10:02:16 AM

  Well you aren't talking about the Mini! I've never had a problem with any other manual transmission car, and I've been driving a clutch for 40 years! I've never had to replace a clutch except on the Mini Cooper, and yes, 18-20k miles on a Mini clutch is about as good as it gets. Read all the other posts that have to do with this Mini problem. And I repeat -- ... Read More

• 2005 S 37,000 miles Clutch blown

  Written by: ordirish on Apr 20, 2011 2:44:03 PM

  Picture this: Sunny afternoon headed up a steep canyon just about approaching Muhullond Drive where James Dean was killed. Clutch on my 2005 Mini Cooper S blows out. Luckily I could coast to the side of the road but it was scary! To replace the clutch it will cost $1,300. So here is my question: Should I dump the car as soon as it's fixed and find something else? Or should ... Read More

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Adding oil between oil changes?

  Written by: cutektbear on Jan 17, 2011 4:08:02 PM

  Hi Everyone. I have a 2005 Mini Cooper S and I checked the oil levels the other day before taking a little road trip. It showed my oil level exactly between the two marks. My manual says basically that if it falls below the bottom mark, to contact a mini certified mechanic (or something to that effect). Can I add some Royal Purple Full Synthetic oil since I'm still about 7000 ... Read More

MINI Cooper Dash and Instrumentation Questions

• Instruments Dropping Out

  Written by: mjr4 on May 24, 2010 1:00:36 PM

  I have a 2005 Cooper "S". On 3 occasions now, some of the instruments have stopped working, and then started again. The symptoms are, the temperature gauge goes to full "hot", the tach swings to zero and the speedo stops working. The actual water temperature is normal. There is no overheating, I have measured it with a thermometer. The engine runs just fine. Then, without any warning, the situation is corrected. ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: 2004 MINI Cooper Clutch Problems [boxingday]

  Written by: stephwisdom on Sep 27, 2009 12:52:30 PM

  When my Mini clutch (2005) went out at 24000 miles, I paid for it. When it went out again, 14k miles later, I did not. I emailed Mini International and let them know of my issues. They called the dealership, and my next clutch was paid for. That same week, I traded in my Mini for a Mercedes. I LOVED my Mini. LOVED it. However, I can't fathom dropping $2400 every ... Read More

• Re: 2005 Mini Cooper S on 2nd Clutch [mjbaughman]

  Written by: CeeeeCeeee on Jun 10, 2009 2:31:37 PM

  In addition to the 2004 MINI, I also have a 2003 BMW 525i and both dealerships share the same lot/garage/etc. Today, I was having the BMW serviced and I happened to mention "my other car", the MINI. Well, first question was, "How do you like it?" I explained about the automatic transmission problems and the clutch problems, as well. I said I was not the only one. The person's response was, ... Read More

• 2005 Mini Cooper S on 2nd Clutch

  Written by: mjbaughman on Jun 10, 2009 12:54:53 PM

  I am having the 2nd clutch put into my 2005 Mini Cooper S Convertible within 50K miles. The first clutch was put into the vehicle at 18K miles and was covered under warranty. The latest adventure this week resulted in a call from MINI service yesterday telling me it would cost me $2600 minimum to have the clutch replaced. When I explained to the gentleman at Dreyer & Reinbold in Indpls ... Read More

• Re: 2004 MINI Cooper Clutch Problems [gusp]

  Written by: bashmichel on Sep 17, 2008 10:41:59 AM

  I have a 2006 mini that makes clutch noise on almost all my shifts from 1st gear. When I complained to the dealer I was told that is common in 2005 and 2006 and there was nothing they would do about it. I was also told it is not under warrenty. Reading other peoples clutch problems in this forum I see some say they were covered under warrenty and some people ... Read More

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Re: MINI Cooper Owners: Care & Maintenance [KarenS]

  Written by: zxbosguy on Sep 2, 2008 9:19:29 AM

  I have a couple questions for you about extending the warranty on my Mini and wonder if you have ever considered or dealt with any of this. Even if you have not, I would appreciate your thoughts. My 2005 Mini maintenance and mechanical warranties (two separate agreements) are up in March 2009. I am considering extending either, or both, warranties for another 2 years. They are separate decisions, and are priced ... Read More

MINI Cooper Steering and Suspension Questions

• Re: MINI Cooper Steering issue - popping [acadimini]

  Written by: Mr_Shiftright on Aug 28, 2008 6:14:47 PM

  They had both shock mount and motor mount issues as I recall. Here are TWO TEchnical Service Bulletins that might be of help to you> SI M 31 01 05 Front Axle June 2005 Technical Service This Service Information bulletin supersedes Service Measure M31 200 05 dated April 2005. SUBJECT Front End Clicking or Creaking Noise MODEL R50 (Cooper) R52 (Convertible) R53 (Cooper S) SITUATION Clicking or creaking noise may be ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: 2004 MINI Cooper Clutch Problems [gusp]

  Written by: minimad2 on Jul 18, 2008 11:06:54 AM

  Sadly, I too have had a very similar experience - not on an '04 Mini, but on an '05. Clutches are clearly an ongoing issue with these cars, but one that the company refuses to acknowledge, chosing instead to pass the blame (quite criminally) back to the consumer. I generally to not repost messages that I've posted to other forums, but I'm really adamant about getting the word out here, so ... Read More

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• Re: Exciting cars..... what? [lilengineerboy]

  Written by: podred on Apr 19, 2008 4:03:06 PM

  As soon as the general public is wiling to pay Mini prices for a Focus (or "Fiesta"), it can start to happen, but I just don't see a lot of $24k Foci running around (as much as I would enjoy it). Very good point, the reason I omitted it from my entry, is that I know enthusiasts like myself that would not let that stop them, providing the performance was similar ... Read More

• Re: Just out of curiosity... [andre1969]

  Written by: podred on Feb 20, 2008 1:28:31 PM

  what would a base Mini Cooper be like to live with on a daily basis? I know it would give up a lot compared to the S model in terms of acceleration, but would it still be more fun to drive than something like a Yaris, Corolla, Fit, Versa, etc? When I brought home my new Mini Cooper S in 2005, my wife fell in love with it. She asked me ... Read More

• Re: yes [miniclubman]

  Written by: podred on Feb 19, 2008 9:20:23 PM

  Why not get a MINI? Here's why: MINI - MSRP : $18,050 Specs: 118hp / 2546.lbs = 21.5 power to weight ratio. Yaris - MSRP: $11,350 Specs: 106hp / 2295.lbs = 21.6 power to weight ratio. That's a massive $ 6,700 more for choosing the MINI, which has no noticeable advantage in power. Not only that but you are NOT buying a Toyota, thus your maintenance and repair bills will be ... Read More

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Re: MINI Cooper Owners: Care & Maintenance [bobbien]

  Written by: tiff_c on Jan 22, 2008 4:07:16 PM

  I just bought a 2005 w/ 26,000 miles on it. The dealer sold me a maintenance/service agreement for $1,000 good 'til 75,000. I still have 30 days to return it at no charge. What do you suggest - i just learned that oil changes are only every 10,000k! Maybe its a waste of money. Does it cover the clutch? It's well worth it if it covers the clutch if it's a ... Read More

• Re: MINI Cooper Owners: Care & Maintenance [KarenS]

  Written by: bobbien on Jan 22, 2008 2:57:51 PM

  I just bought a 2005 w/ 26,000 miles on it. The dealer sold me a maintenance/service agreement for $1,000 good 'til 75,000. I still have 30 days to return it at no charge. What do you suggest - i just learned that oil changes are only every 10,000k! Maybe its a waste of money.

• PA emission inspection

  Written by: vweospgh on Jan 20, 2008 1:45:28 PM

  I have an 05 MINI Cooper Conv CVT with about 15,000 miles that I purchased new in May 2005. I have been having problems getting it to pass PA emission inspection. MINI has blamed the fact that I store it during the winter months. In Spring'06, I had it to 2 different inspection stations that were unable to get it to pass with 7000 miles on the odometer. I finally took ... Read More

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• Re: Nothing "Wrong" Subcompacts Are Fun To Drive. [boaz47]

  Written by: podred on Jan 3, 2008 10:20:29 AM

  First of all please understand that when I say advantages, that it's simply from my viewpoint based on my personal preferences. Regarding my thoughts on the Yaris Coupe vs Corolla Sedan, after looking up the stats on the EPA site, I find the interior room is only two cubic feet larger on the Corolla. That was before I went to see a Yaris, and get in and drive the car. Because ... Read More

• Re: Nothing "Wrong" Subcompacts Are Fun To Drive. [nippononly]

  Written by: podred on Dec 31, 2007 11:10:42 AM

  You are correct, I find the Yaris right in the "sweet spot" of small sporty cars. For quite a number of reasons. I have a large collection of sports cars of all sizes. So, my only point is to share with the readers my experience and opinion of the Yaris and how it measures up with the others overall. For a blazing fast, fun & attention demanding car in the size ... Read More

MINI Cooper: Manual or Automatic?

• Re: Hill Holder [bobbid]

  Written by: darex on Dec 13, 2007 4:41:46 AM

  My 2005 MC is stick. I've often wondered about this. I never roll back on hills, and I refuse to believe it's because my technique is so perfect and I'm so talented :-). When I first learned stick, I lived in dread of stopping on hills, but now, it is irrelevant how steep the grade is. So, is there a hill holder feature? I don't know, but all I can say ... Read More

MINI Cooper Electrical & Lighting Glitches

• warning lamps of Safety seatbelts and airbags

  Written by: gatkd on Jul 25, 2007 8:07:24 AM

  I bought a mini cooper convertible 2005 in USA Miami and arrive in my country(Panama, Central America) after 2 weeks. The problem is the warning lamp of airbags and safety seatbelts lights up while I driving. In Panama the BMW don´t sell and repair minis. I trie to disconet( Reset ) the battery in about 10 seconds and doesn´t work. I don´t think that the problem is mal funtion, something happens ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: which year for used purchase [alexstjo]

  Written by: cct1 on Apr 12, 2007 7:09:52 AM

  I'd definitely stay away from the CVT. If you're after an automatic, the 2007 is the way to go. If you're after a used Mini Cooper or S stick, you'll want a 2005 or 2006 if you go used--all the bugs are worked out of these, this is also when the gear ratios were changed; it significantly improved the drivability of the car. You may still find one under warranty. Personally, ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Clutch

  Written by: cct1 on Apr 21, 2007 7:56:07 PM

  The gearbox was changed in 2005--specifically because of the transmission/clutch in the earlier models--from Midlands to Gertrag--which is the same manufacturer of the transmission in the Mini S. Gertrag is very reliable, but as its only in the 2005 and later models, I would steer away from the base Mini Cooper in any year prior to 2005.

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Is this a good deal?

  Written by: tica on Mar 31, 2007 4:02:49 PM

  Hi I've been fantasizing about owning a Mini for about 6 months now. Test drove a 2006 last fall. I went to the NYC dealer yesterday to try to test drive a 2007 and met a guy who owned a 2005 who was bringing it in to see what they'd give him for it. He wanted to trade it in for a bigger BMW. We were just chatting at first and ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: Longer Version of Transmission Replacement [bfromhold]

  Written by: zippco on Mar 2, 2007 2:49:14 PM

  bfromhold: My 2005 Mini Cooper's auto. transmission was replaced with a re-built transmission. One day I noticed that when merging on to a highway,(going from 30 to 60mi/hr) it jerked and hesitated for a second. But it drove fine once going. Then few weeks later, I could not drive any faster than 25mi/hr on a slushy road, I first thought it had something to do with the Dynamic Stability Control. (I ... Read More

• Re: Longer Version of Transmission Replacement [03minidrvr]

  Written by: zippco on Feb 28, 2007 12:21:18 PM

  I am going through similar situation with my 2005 Cooper (Automatic) w/8000mi right now. Luckly I have the road-side assis. plan and was able to take it to my favorite authorized Mini service dealer and still under warranty. But even after the transmission is replaced (w/re-built one), by reading the Forums here makes me worry. I, too hope nothing else goes wrong.... Any thoughts/comments/suggestions are welcome.

• Re: Loud sound from clutch [bbuc]

  Written by: turbojoe74 on Feb 25, 2007 8:29:00 PM

  bbuc, I had a 2005 Mini Cooper and waited for the new 5 spd transmission. Ever since the first day I drove it I noticed that in slow manuevers,ie pulling into a parking space or backing out of the garage the engine would vibrate violently. I have had many 5spd or stick shift cars in my life, in fact I have a 1987 supra turbo with 170000 miles on it and ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Good Deal on A Mini-Cooper 2005 [kyfdx]

  Written by: tshirk on Feb 16, 2007 9:13:39 AM

  I may of course be way off, I was looking at the base price and adding in the amounts for the options.

• Re: Good Deal on A Mini-Cooper 2005 [tshirk]

  Written by: kyfdx on Feb 14, 2007 8:29:58 PM

  Is that a MINI Cooper S model? If not, then $28K seems awfully high for an original price..

• Good Deal on A Mini-Cooper 2005

  Written by: tshirk on Feb 14, 2007 8:28:28 PM

  I have the opportunity to purchase a 2005 Mini-Cooper with clean car fax and in perfect condition. Drives like a dream. Has leather seats, panoramic sunroofs and a number of other upgrades. From what I can tell the orginal price was around $28,000. I am able to purchase it for $18,700. Is this a good deal? I understand these cars tend to hold their value. Also, how does it handle in ... Read More

Article Comments: 2007 Mini Cooper S First Drive

• Gotta love MINI

  Written by: zephyr_7 on Jan 31, 2007 9:25:09 PM

  Im fully looking forward to getting in the seat of a new 2007 MINI COOPER S, and because of Mini's excelent trade in value, my 2005 is worth almost as much as I paid for it. Therefore I can get a new Mini relativily cheap. I love the interior, and guess what guys now I will be able to actually use the cup holders for drinks, how exciting. The exterior still ... Read More

• 2007 MINI Cooper S

  Written by: jjohnw on Jan 28, 2007 12:42:42 PM

  I ordered a 2007 S model 6-speed manual Pepper White/ Black for mid-February 2007 Motoring. I view this as our "fun" car, our 3rd car - sporty, fun, quick performance, good gas mileage, BMW complete redesign for upscale refinement, useful with fold-down seats for 4, hatchback carrying capacity, and fairly exclusive for a $25k car. It has features and interior/ exterior design no other car has. Our Car #1 for all-around ... Read More

• 2007 MINI Cooper S

  Written by: jjohnw on Jan 28, 2007 12:27:50 PM

  I ordered a 2007 S model 6-speed manual Pepper White/ Black for Motoring commencing in mid-February 2007. I view this as our "fun" car, our 3rd car - sporty, fun, quick performance, good gas mileage, BMW complete redesign for upscale refinement, useful with fold-down seats for 4, hatchback carrying capacity, and fairly exclusive for a $25k car. Our Car #1 for all-around purposes is a 2005 BMW X3 which we took ... Read More

How to handle multiple electrical and mechanical issues with the dealer?

• Re: How to handle multiple electrical and mechanical issues with the dealer? [cct1]

  Written by: slewi3 on Nov 30, 2006 6:34:34 AM

  I found a web site that showed 130 TSB's available for 2003 Mini Coopers. 123 are service bulletins, 9 campaign or recalls and 7 DTC Related. Good news/bad news - they charge for them. Several address some of my issues, ie. Glove box difficult to latch or open - Issued 2005-06 Thanks again for your help.

MINI Cooper: Manual or Automatic?

• Re: Is Mini S a good car for a new manual tran driver? [thelibrarian]

  Written by: cct1 on Nov 10, 2006 11:12:36 AM

  First of all, I'd strongly recommend getting a 2008. The 2007 is new from the ground up--engine included--and Mini/BMW hasn't been stellar on brand new releases with regard to reliability. The 2005-2006 Mini's are substantially better from an overall quality standpoint than their 2002 predecessors--from such mundane things as the quality of the dash to more substantial things such as gear ratios. Let them work the bugs out of the car ... Read More

• Deciding between two used Mini S types - Please HELP!!

  Written by: vzebro on Sep 27, 2006 3:20:45 PM

  Hi, We would like to buy our first mini and are looking at two, privately owned used Mini S types. Car 1 is a 2005 with 20,500 miles on it. Premium/ Cold weather & Sports packages. Automatic transmission. Harmon Kardon sound system. From the pics looks very well maintained. I happen to know the owner and she is asking $24,000 but would let us have it for $22,000. Car 2 is ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Choosing between two used Mini Copper S types - HELP!!

  Written by: vzebro on Sep 27, 2006 3:11:52 PM

  Hi, We would like to buy our first mini and are looking at two, privately owned used Mini S types. Car 1 is a 2005 with 20,500 miles on it. Premium/ Cold weather & Sports packages. Automatic transmission. Harmon Kardon sound system. From the pics looks very well maintained. I happen to know the owner and she is asking $24,000 but would let us have it for $22,000. Car 2 is ... Read More

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• Re: Have ya ever noticed how [qbrozen]

  Written by: british_rover on Aug 8, 2006 9:31:55 AM

  Well yeah and a 7 speed automatic. A lot more time in a wind tunnel. More efficient driveline and a lower numeric gear ratio. What is the final drive in a E-clas diesel like 2.94:1? Most subcompacts are in the upper 3 or lower 4 to 1 range. They need that gear ratio to get moving with the low torque of their engine. The MINI is the best example about how ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Factory Closing dates (7/31/06 - 8/13/06) [mlwagner79]

  Written by: bfromhold on Aug 4, 2006 11:02:11 AM

  F.Y.I. Here's more info on the closure (which seems to mostly affect the vistor's center): Dear Brenda Thank you for your further reply. We can confirm that it is only the MINI Visitor Centre which is the subject of refurbishment. Production of the MINI in all its forms will continue as before with MINIs rolling off the production line on a daily basis and also being delivered to MINI Dealerships, MINI ... Read More

Fit vs. MINI

• Re: ... [nippononly]

  Written by: waltersbg on May 6, 2006 8:28:34 PM

  nippononly: I haven't driven a mini, and I'm pretty sure I'll never get that chance. In fact, I driven very few cars which have been accused of having great handling. I have, however, driven my new fit and whether somebody considers "go-kart-like handling" to be a good thing or a bad thing, I'd say the fit has it. More on that below. I'm not exactly sure why we're comparing the mini ... Read More

• Misinformation

  Written by: lotsabones on May 6, 2006 6:47:00 PM

  Not trying to butt in here or anything, but I would like to correct a few false statements. According to the edmunds.com sites listed very early in this discussion, the 0-60 time for the MINI is 8.7 seconds, and for the Fit is 9.3 seconds. People have gone on to claim that the Fit is quicker - wishful thinking, I expect. "Mini? Sex Appeal? LOL It's got all the sex appeal ... Read More

MINI Cooper Convertible

• Re: 4 wheel down motorhome '05 towing 5 speed transmission [tjg1502]

  Written by: cmoorrees on Apr 25, 2006 7:33:36 PM

  I'm currently outfitting my 2005 mini cooper with a "Blue Ox" base plate and tow bar. The Blue Ox has a removable tab style base plate minimizing the impact on your front grill. Check out Blue Ox base plates and you will see a picture of a mini cooper with one installed.

MINI Cooper Owners: Meet the Members

• My MINI COOPER experience

  Written by: minigirl1 on Oct 31, 2005 8:03:21 AM

  I purchased a 2005 Mini Cooper Convertible in September of 2004. The Sales service was terrific! This was my first expensive new car and driving it was such a joy! However, I just sold it a little over a year later because of the horrible service at Tom Bush Mini in Jacksonville, FL. The countless hours my husband and I have spent on the issues cost us more than the car! ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Money Factor Question

  Written by: anjor on Sep 8, 2005 9:51:06 PM

  I am wondering how I can find out what the money factor was used for March 2005 on the Mini Cooper S Convertible. I made an agreement the end of March 2005 for a Mini Cooper S Convertible and I thought the rate was 5.3% (as I recall, BMW Financial was having this incentive). I am currently negotiating a lease for a 2005 BMW X3 and pulled out my Mini lease ... Read More

Mini Cooper v. Hyundai Tiburon v. Acura RSX v. Subaru WRX

• My apologies for this long post. i actually test-drove all of these...

  Written by: silversolara on Aug 31, 2005 8:39:56 AM

  ... and stayed the heck away from the GTI while I was making a decision for buying this year. I owned a 72-73 Fastback, and had 2 friends who later owned a Scirocco and a Golf. Of the 3 Volkswagens, the Fastback seemed to be the best car. The Scirocco and the Golf both developed electrical problems - the worst was when both cars' power windows got stuck during the winter ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• MSRP

  Written by: needacar6 on Aug 28, 2005 3:01:57 PM

  at the MINI dealer in the san diego area, MSRP is listed as 20,400 for the base model 2005 cooper w/ manual transmission, before options are added. Edmunds lists MSRP as 16,900 for the same . The cheapest one on the lot is tagged at over $28k. ack. Any luck elsewhere in california?

• Just got a new 2005 MINI!

  Written by: bv73ms3 on Aug 23, 2005 7:41:00 PM

  hi all, We took delivery of a new 2005 Mini Cooper, red/white roof, auto trans with prem, sport and cold weather packages with bonnet stripes and exhaust tip. MSRP-32,000. We ordered it about 2 months ago and live in Chicago IL. Our monthly payment is $303 with only $450 out of pocket on delivery for at 39 month lease with 36K miles. Tax which is paid up front in Illinois on ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• mini color 2005 and 2006

  Written by: mini_cute on Aug 17, 2005 11:49:13 AM

  Is mini cooper s (not convertible) of 2005 and 2006 offer hot orange color?

• Checking in...

  Written by: frankcoopers on Jul 18, 2005 3:33:15 PM

  I finally sold my 16 month old 2004 MCS with 17K miles back in early February. I sold the car for $21,900 or $700 above of what I paid for it brand new in late 2003 I ordered a new 2005 MCS 6-speed manual (Identically configured to the 2004 MCS, save some new'05 goodies) in late January and took delivery in late March. car currently has 2,800 miles and not a ... Read More

• Mini on stage

  Written by: joester on Jul 14, 2005 4:33:34 PM

  I have to share some thought about my 2005 mini cooper base. I now own it for 7 months and have nothing but praise to give to the company. My mileage averages from 29-32 combined with stick. The car is a head turner and I kind of uped the ante. I ordered 18" chrome Alba wheels for it. I must say that in New York City commuting, not a day goes ... Read More

• Long Road Trips

  Written by: dlefont on Apr 25, 2005 9:22:02 AM

  I just ordered a 2005 Cooper (not S) - 5spd with Prem Package and wanted input from current MINI owners. How does the car fair on long road trips? dlefont-1197@yahoo.com

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Going for a Mini in Orlando/Tampa area [glavinsolo]

  Written by: kapoor on May 21, 2005 8:29:08 PM

  Hey Guys, I am looking into a 2005 Mini Cooper S with a sports package, premium pacakge and ipod adapter and the dark silver metallic color. I have already gotten a dealer quote. It was 23456 which includes free floor mats What do you guys think about the price? Do you think they would negotiate more?

• press request

  Written by: kirstie_h on Apr 15, 2005 1:28:27 PM

  A reporter with a national magazine is on a series of articles with real people and their car buying experiences. The reporter is looking for people who have recently purchased a car and had an interesting car buying experience using non-traditional methods. Specfically, the reporter would like to speak with people who have purchased a Mustang, Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, a Mini Cooper hardtop or convertible or a hybrid vehicle of ... Read More

• Re: Dealer Prep Fee [dave44]

  Written by: rayt2 on Apr 4, 2005 11:44:32 AM

  Dave, Don't ya love those little "ad on fees" ? Your right $489 for dealer prep & document fee is ridiculous. This will be a determining factor when I look to upgrade to a 2005 or 2006 "S" . I presently own a 2003 Cooper. MSRP is bad enough since dealer is making at least $2k on the sale if not more over their cost. If enough people balk at the ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• real world MPG

  Written by: jchagtdi on Mar 17, 2005 10:47:49 AM

  I am considering a Mini Cooper base. Anyone care to share their MPG numbers? Does the base model require premium fuel? Does the revised gearing of the 2005 model's manual tranny yield any more MPG? Thanks everyone!

MINI Cooper Convertible

• Full Test: 2005 Mini Cooper and Cooper S Convertibles

  Written by: Sylvia on Mar 2, 2005 3:15:27 PM

  Full Test: 2005 Mini Cooper and Cooper S Convertibles When we got a pair of Mini Cooper convertibles, we were so struck by their cuteness we didn't know whether to hug or drive them first. We opted for the latter. http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/?synpartner=edmunds&pageurl=www- .edmunds.com/insideline

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• DCX Re: Mini Handling in the snow

  Written by: rayt2 on Dec 9, 2004 10:00:36 AM

  I'v'e gone thru one northeast winter so far with my Cooper and after the very first dusting took off the stock all season tires and put 4 Dunlop Winter Sport M2 tires on. BIG DIFFERENCE. The stock tires are crap when it comes to snow. Dry/wet roads their OK but they are not any good in snow/ice. I commute a 100 miles a day thru some hilly areas and the need ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• Akitadog

  Written by: rayt2 on Dec 7, 2004 1:03:19 PM

  FYI, the "S" and convertible will also be offering locking differential on 2005 models from what I have read, a must I think for these cars. Iv'e had my Cooper for 19 months and put 43k miles on to date. It makes the daily 100 mile commute much easier to deal with over those humdrum Honda's, Toyota's, Nissan's. The Mini has class and fun factor built into it. It gets 33 ... Read More

• Re: New colors for '05 Coopers [ozonecat]

  Written by: blackhat on Sep 25, 2004 9:56:19 PM

  Thanks. I was reading somewhere that it MIGHT be offered for the Cooper later on in '05. Either way... I think I know what I'm going to get. I was bent on having a COLOR... but, I believe I am going to get an "astro black" with white roof and racing striped... and checkered sun roof graphic! My girlfried and I were out driving, and we saw a very cool silver ... Read More

MINI Cooper Convertible

• Saw the convertible today!

  Written by: blackhat on Aug 29, 2004 9:26:32 PM

  I visited a Mini dealership today. They were "introducing" the Mini convertibles. Cool car! I am torn between getting a convertible or Cooper hard top. My girlfriend wants me to get the hard top and load it up... the convertible is like a $3,500.00 "option". "Cool blue" is not going to be offered with the hard top version in 2005. It's a convertible-only color for the Cooper convertible.... and that's the ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• MINI Cooper CVT Lifespan?

  Written by: ezorn33 on Aug 18, 2004 6:17:32 AM

  Hi all, I was having qualms about the MINI due to the reports of unreliability, but they seem to be confined to the 2002 models (the first year), and mostly the manual transmission, too. I would be buying a 2004 (or 2005) CVT. Now, even if the MINI is fairly reliable, can I expect it to last as long as, say, a Honda/Hyundai/Mazda/Nissan? If not, what can I expect? I realize ... Read More

• Ready to Buy

  Written by: greyscale on Jun 7, 2004 7:25:11 PM

  First, I want to thank everyone posting for the fantastic input -- I have learned so much here. I made a deposit two weeks ago and dealer called today and is ready to take my specs (2005). I have just a couple outstanding questions. My dealer didn't have the "black eye purple" for me to look at. This new 2005 color is replacing Indi Blue. My heart is set on either ... Read More

• Cooper S: 2005 vs 2004

  Written by: jaatbeni on May 20, 2004 10:42:23 AM

  I am seriously considering buying a Mini Cooper S... the only debate being whether to wait for the 2005 or go with the 2004. How much of a difference is there between the two cars... is it really worth waiting 4-5 months for it vs the 8 odd weeks for the 2004? Also, with the dollar - euro rate looking increasingly unfavorable, it is likely to be more expensive. Any ideas ... Read More

MINI Cooper Convertible

• A note on the convertable I copied from Revka

  Written by: rayt2 on Aug 3, 2003 2:25:21 PM

  2005 Mini Cooper by revka HOST Aug 02, 2003 (10:09 am) Edmunds now has information about the 2005 MINI Cooper Compact Convertible in their Future Vehicles section. Check it out and let us know what you think! Revka

MINI Cooper

• 2005 Mini Cooper

  Written by: revka on Aug 2, 2003 7:09:27 AM

  Edmunds now has information about the 2005 MINI Cooper Compact Convertible in their Future Vehicles section. Check it out and let us know what you think! Revka

MINI Cooper Convertible

• MINI Cooper Convertible - 2005

  Written by: kirstie_h on Apr 25, 2003 3:20:21 PM

  Can MINI keep the demand going with the new convertible version of the strong-selling hardtop?

MINI Cooper

• engine rumours

  Written by: hpulley4 on Dec 1, 2002 3:50:30 AM

  Some people wish that the K1200 engine (4-banger from their motorcycles) had been used. Less torque but 130HP. Was too tall for the engine compartment so it wasn't used. BMW has made some 4-cylinder car engines too for the 318 and 316 cars over here in the past and currently in other markets and the lower series BMWs that don't get shipped to north america also have 4-bangers. Still, with those ... Read More

• Here's What I Think...

  Written by: brechbiel on Apr 5, 2002 9:12:53 AM

  Here are some facts and opinions related to Mini Cooper. I have not read all postings, so please pardon any repetition: - BMW makes attractive, well engineered, high performance products, if somewhat expensive. My wife and I enjoy our 2000 323iT and 2001 525iT wagons, both with auto trannys. The 323iT replaced a 1991 G20 manual that was a great car with 110k miles. The 525iT replaced a 1989 Dodge Grand ... Read More

• Mini at LA Auto Show

  Written by: obiwankenobi1 on Jan 10, 2002 10:15:38 AM

  Great looking little car! Especially the "S" Yeah, I can wait a couple of years for one and then get the price I want. Plus my current lease will be up in August 2005 so I am thinking around 2004 to purchase a Mini. Only problem is, with me in the front seat (I'm 6'1) equals 0 back seat room. My seat was touching the back seat. No bueno! But sign ... Read More