2006 MINI Cooper Consumer Discussions

MINI Cooper Convertible

• Want a Used Convertible But Concerned about Condition

  Written by: meganalain on Feb 7, 2012 9:44:37 AM

  I'm wanting to buy a 2004 - 2006 model Mini Cooper S Convertible. Has anyone experienced problems with the mechanics of the convertible top? Do you like / use the sunroof feature? Any leaks? Is there anything I need to watch out for?

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Re: 2006 Mini Cooper [katyknock]

  Written by: Mr_Shiftright on Jul 28, 2011 7:38:24 PM

  You know it seems typical German level of quality---spotty at best, but nothing disastrous. In a 5 year span the only item you mention that really suprises me is the AC; otherwise, glitches like locks, trim falling off, electrical faults---that's very MINI, and I wouldn't call it a "lemon". By all means have a private garage do your oil changes, as long as they know how (it's a cannister type filter, ... Read More

• 2006 Mini Cooper

  Written by: katyknock on Jul 28, 2011 6:46:44 PM

  I have a 2006 Mini Cooper and live in the Chicagoland area. I love my car and can't think of anything I'd like better except the amount of time I've spent at the dealership getting things fixed during warranty and now within the first year after warranty. How does one classify if they got a lemon? How many repairs should there be in the 1st 5 years? including... Under Warranty Thermostat ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Does my 06 have a CVT transmission

  Written by: minicooper06 on May 23, 2011 4:56:40 PM

  I have a 06 mini cooper hardtop automatic and was wondering if it has a CVT transmission, the dealer said it did not however, on the internet I keep getting mixed answers, hoping to get the final answer here. Does my 2006 have a CVT transmission? Thank you.

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Re: maintenance costs [chknltl]

  Written by: Mr_Shiftright on Mar 12, 2011 1:07:18 PM

  The car is a FWD, not rwd, and it should do fine in snow as long as we aren't talking about drifting or rutted snow that is higher than the car's ground clearance. Naturally dedicated snow tires on all 4 wheels would be best. There are quite a few special tools required to work on MINIs so I would think there are some repairs your mechanic is simply not equipped to ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Gearbox rattle

  Written by: janmaly on Feb 22, 2011 3:01:22 AM

  Hi everybody! Same here! My MINI Cooper 2007 has only 30 000miles on it and gearbox started to rattle. Rattle goes away when clutch is pressed. And gearbox starts to be noisy even during driving. I can NOT beleive it, premium, expensive small car....BMW actually. On Thursday I booked visit at my dealer to request good will from BMW. Hope that they will pay at least 80% of replacement price. My ... Read More

• Clutch issues

  Written by: miler1 on Oct 27, 2010 2:27:32 PM

  I would like to communicate directly with owners of 2006 or later model MINI Cooper S models who experienced a failure of the clutch disc and/or pressure plate while the vehicle was still under warranty.

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Prices and Ordering Options

  Written by: psychoticgas on Aug 2, 2010 5:42:32 AM

  I guess we have been lucky so far. We had a 2006 Cooper S Automatic and never had a single problem with transmission. Just came off lease and we replaced it with a 2010 Cooper S Mayfair Edition - yes lots of bells and whistles but it is a very, very nice ride and a major upgrade from our last one, which was pretty loaded. This one rides quite a bit ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: THREE CLUTCHES IN 30,000mi?! [cbriansmith902]

  Written by: minijcwfan on Jun 18, 2010 2:47:54 PM

  Hi C. Brian Smith: We have a 2006 Mini cooper S JCW and have just replaced second clutch. Car has a total of 20,000 miles on it. My wife drives it so gently the brake pads are virtually new!!! We purchased an extended maintenance agreement before the expiration of the initial maintenance agreement. Dealer covered the first clutch job before expiration of the initial agreement. Now Dealer says that the second ... Read More

• THREE CLUTCHES IN 30,000mi?!

  Written by: cbriansmith902 on May 18, 2010 5:43:10 PM

  I am a normal person with normal driving habits. I have a 2006 Cooper S, bought new. The warranty just ran out two months ago (have extended factory, but not maintenance). Last year I hired a lemon lawyer to look into filing a claim because the car had been taken to the dealership for repairs over 20 times in 3 years, many of which clutch/transmission noises, chatters, and malfunctions. I have ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: MINI maintenance and service [wilhelmw]

  Written by: waltermb on Sep 18, 2009 4:30:58 AM

  I have had my 2006 mini cooper s with john cooper factory install for about 1 year. i bought the car used, 2 years old with only 5000 miles on it. It had never been to the dealer for service. so you know mini has 2 warrantees-one is the maintanence--covers everything like oil changes, wipers --everything-- the other covers all mechanical issues . you will have to check the length of ... Read More

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Another extended Maintenance question

  Written by: hc519 on Apr 23, 2009 7:31:24 AM

  Hi I know this question has been asked to death, but I don't know very much about cars and I'd really like answers geared towards my specific car/maintenance offer. I drive a 2006 cooper. Currently, I drive about 80 miles a day, but that will only be until march of 2010 (the job ends then), and then I will be taking the subway and not driving. I live in nyc so ... Read More

Mini Cooper Snow Issues

• Re: Mini Cooper Snow Issues [ltq]

  Written by: bfromhold on Feb 11, 2009 11:34:31 AM

  I tend to disagree with you otto989. Quote by otto989: "...OK. You may have heard of the freezing rain in KY, was a Fed Disaster Area and my power went out for a week. Black ice, white ice, you name it. Snow or not, it is ice underneath. PacNW wet snow is nothing next to solid ice on roadways..." We HAVE conditions that you mention with icy roads here in the ... Read More

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Warning lite

  Written by: bitsiesmom on Dec 29, 2008 11:51:43 AM

  I have owned a 2006 Mini Cooper for just a few months. The other day, the warning lite for a possible flat tire came on. I didn't have a flat but the drivers side door wouldn't open from the inside and now is doing that sporadically. Yesterday the check engine lite came on, but did not come on today. I live in N. Michigan and it had been really cold when ... Read More

MINI Cooper Tire and Wheel Questions

• Changing wheel sizes on a Mini

  Written by: husker03 on Oct 20, 2008 5:28:47 PM

  I have a 2006 Mini Cooper with 15" wheels. Would 16" wheels from a 2008 "S" fit without modification? Thanks

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• 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 Lease Questions

• lease buy back

  Written by: bgates222 on Sep 16, 2008 11:08:25 AM

  ok ive not come across this before My mother leased a mini cooper in 2006 for 2 years and 24k miles now its time to turn the car back in and to my dismay she has 6k miles on the car and they want around 18k for the car if she wanted to buy it. It seems to make more sense to buy the car and either keep it or sell ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• Re: MPG 2006 v 2007 [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: rtboon on Aug 17, 2008 7:17:26 AM

  I currently own a 2008 Clubman S and was looking at a used 2006 Mini Cooper S with auto transmission. Love the car, color and price but what does anyone know about issues with 2006 models and the auto transmission? My research indicates most of the problems were pre 2004 and also the CVT autos. Thanks

MINI Cooper Electrical & Lighting Glitches

• Mini Cooper 2006 After Accident

  Written by: kikysoma on Aug 6, 2008 12:09:32 PM

  So some problem. Back in the beginning of April my husband and I were rear ended hard by a bmw golf car. We were ok but we have had it sent to Cincinnati Mini to get it fixed FOUR times. The problem isnt the car doesn't run, heck it looks good as new on the outside but every time a passager gets in or a bump is hit we have these ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• Re: HOUSEWIFE [blueguydotcom]

  Written by: coupah on Jun 17, 2008 5:10:25 PM

  Oh, here's a link the pic was posted at http://www.automotive.com/2006/12/mini/cooper/used-car-listings/index.html

MINI Cooper: MPG-Real World Numbers

• fule econamy on a long trip

  Written by: coyoteblue on Jun 12, 2008 7:28:21 PM

  Last summer we drove our 2006 Mini Cooper from a small town south of Houston TX to Phoenix Arizona and back with an overall average of 41.5 mpg. We also mostly drove at 60 miles an hour just to see what optimum fuel efficiency could be. Generally we get 36 - 37 mpg per tank commuting 20 miles to work. This summer we get to try with our mini clubman s ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• Re: MPG 2006 v 2007 [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: british_rover on Jun 5, 2008 2:58:04 PM

  I can confirm all of that. I did much the same thing before I bought my 2004 MINI Cooper S new. The early cars could be troublesome but nothing was more troublesome then a base MINI with the CVT trans. The base 5 speed was better but not by much. Slightly off topic but still relevant is this... I sell what is supposed to be the lease reliable vehicle line in ... Read More

MINI Cooper: MPG-Real World Numbers

• Mini S, High octane vs regular gas

  Written by: morgan5 on May 13, 2008 7:41:25 AM

  I have a 2006 Cooper S and given where gas prices are going, I want to know if anyone out there has tried burning regular gas in their Cooper S. If so, what were the results? I've been told, that the car's computer makes adjustments for the octane being used, but that information did not come from a Mini mechanic.

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• What is "wrong" with the new subcompacts?

  Written by: podred on May 11, 2008 4:22:19 PM

  My specific response to the title of the thread is : Nothing Is Wrong! They are what they are, Today's Subcompacts. They are different than the cars of the past, and while one can certainly compare them, just what is the point? The title is not "What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts _as compared_ to subcompacts of the past. And yet that is the majority of the debate going on ... Read More

• My Yaris Hatchback Experience

  Written by: podred on Mar 26, 2008 2:01:19 PM

  As you regular readers know, I have quite a collection of cars from the extreme exotic car end of the spectrum, Ferrari F50 & Bugatti Veyron to the opposite extreme 2008 Yaris Hatchback S. I must say that I'm truly shocked at just how much I am enjoying the Yaris. I originally bought it for my daughter, who just had to have what she described as "this cute little red car". ... Read More

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

  Written by: podred on Jan 2, 2008 9:40:39 AM

  Regarding the American media raving over the Fit and all but ignoring the Yaris, first one must understand the publishing business and the influence of the advertisers. Toyota does a lot of advertising but does not "expect" anything in return other than seeing their ad. Honda on the other hand rides on the edge of unethical, passing favors to the editors and road testers. I know this as I have friends ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Does a '06 Mini Cooper S have a CVT? I heard not...

  Written by: bfromhold on Sep 2, 2007 2:54:23 PM

  I'm a little confused about which automatic transmission I have in my (late July) 2006 MINI Cooper S now. After talking with a MINI dealer here in the Puget Sound area last week, I was informed only the non S MINIs have the CVT transmission. Does anyone know if this is true? So far I have had nothing unusual happen with the transmission. My MINI: Late July '06 MCS, Hyper blue ... Read More

MINI Cooper Lease Questions

• Re: Car_Man: MF/residuals on 2006 Mini Cooper? [slipstreamv2]

  Written by: Car_man on May 17, 2007 3:31:18 AM

  Hi slipstreamv2. I don't believe that BMW is offering leases on 2006 Mini models any longer. There may be an independent bank out there that you can lease one through, but given the fact that the 2007 model's residual values will probably be much higher you may find that there isn't much of a difference between the payment for an '07 and an '06 model. Make sure to stop by the ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: color choices vs. whats inside [bijoubaby05]

  Written by: blueguydotcom on Dec 14, 2007 1:00:07 PM

  As I bought off-the-lot (I got rid of my 2006 330i and decided that same week the Cooper S was my choice), I would suggest with a purchase of this kind that you closely weigh the importance of features v. price. Had I known I wanted I Cooper S sooner I would have ordered and I'd have 2 feature I dearly miss - comfort access and a LSD. This would have ... Read More

MINI Cooper

• Re: '08 vs '07 MINI Cooper [minipak]

  Written by: spyderone on Dec 10, 2007 10:32:48 AM

  The 2007 is 2.5 to 3 inches longer than the 2006 and as far as the HP I would assume it is the same since they just changed it for the 2007 model. All the changes that were made were from the 2006 model to the 2007 model.

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• Re: Fit [bobw3]

  Written by: british_rover on Oct 22, 2007 6:49:28 AM

  BTW...if you go to the Honda Fit forum, you'll find out that anyone buying Fits are paying MSRP because of the high demand that's been ongoing since the summer of 2006. Give me an example of any other car that sells at MSRP with no incentives after almost 1 1/2 years? Li MINI Cooper S is another car like that and it has been selling at or very close to MSRP ... Read More

MINI Cooper Lease Questions

• Car_Man: MF/residuals on 2006 Mini Cooper?

  Written by: slipstreamv2 on Apr 11, 2007 11:31:42 AM

  Hi Car_Man, I'm interested in the MF/residuals for a 2006 Mini Cooper for 15K/3yrs. My sister was looking at the 07's, but they seem to be going for full MSRP, so I advised her to consider 06's. Can you give me a ballpark to be shooting for on 06's, for example, $1K over invoice? Anyone know if car leases can be completed over phone/fax/email? My sister will be purchasing from a ... Read More

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• Re: 2007 Cobalt [british_rover]

  Written by: boaz47 on Sep 30, 2007 6:04:11 PM

  You know, in all the years I have been to races I discovered that grass roots racing is not very grass roots and not very stock. Even in Solo autocross I discovered that European cars wouldn't even be street legal here. However here is one site. http://tunersource.gmblogs.com/blog/archive/2007/08/02/a-perfect-race-for-the-sc- adapack-chevy-cobalt-ss and back in 2006 http://www.grand-am.com/News/Article.asp?ID=6858 I believe in the Grand Am Koni Challenge Cobalts are ahead of Honda Subaru and Mini Cooper this ... Read More

MINI Cooper Accessories & Modifications

• Re: things to add [hollyg]

  Written by: coastalcooper on Sep 17, 2007 10:01:08 AM

  I have a 2006 Cooper with run flats and got the insurance when I bought the car. Glad I did because I got a flat and insurance paid full replacement cost ($250). I too was wondering about getting a bra. No chips yet but lots of bugs here in NC. Anyone have any experience with the bra made by MINI vs other companies? Problems with scratching the paint? Could I leave ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2006 MINI Cooper S Conv

  Written by: 71mini on Sep 2, 2007 2:50:10 AM

  I wish I found the forum earlier when I was buying a new MINI. Anyway, like to share some thoughts: Got omy MINI S Conv. from Nick Alexander just a little bit below sticker price. $35,000 out of the door, with an MSRP just below $33,000 :o) Great people to work with. In and out of the dealership with in 2 hrs. Not sure if I can post this.... Had a ... Read More

• Re: I'm taking the plunge [plekto]

  Written by: blueguydotcom on Jul 29, 2007 10:33:14 AM

  The 1 series is not light , there's no proof it's better than a Mini and a 128 will easily be 600 pounds heavier than a Mini. If you want to save cash, a 1 series via ED would probably make it quite cheap (far cheaper than a Mini). I got rid of my 2006 e90 and replaced it with n 07 Mini Cooper S. The 330i on paper is "better" ... Read More

• Re: Money Factor on my lease [blueguydotcom]

  Written by: plekto on Jul 24, 2007 12:29:15 PM

  Also, if you buy it, mileage, wear and tear, and all of the rest, plus gap insurance and so on doesn't apply. Now, this still makes it hard to get ahead with buying, except that the Mini hardly depreciates for the first few years.(provided you go light on options that is) It will be worth about 75-80% of what you buy it for in 4-5 years, which is not the norm. ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: 2006 Mini Cooper Convertible transmission problem [06mc_conv]

  Written by: nona47 on Jun 26, 2007 5:37:04 PM

  I am glad the dealer came through for you, but still it leaves a bad taste when a brand new car is having tranny problems. I will have a problem accepting another mini fm the dealer as we ordered our mini fm Oxford- didn't care for all the bells and whistles the dealership always orders on their cars. Mine is a stick shift, and still has that grinding noise on first. ... Read More

• 2006 Mini Cooper Convertible transmission problem

  Written by: 06mc_conv on Jun 20, 2007 12:27:31 PM

  I just bought a brand new 2006 Mini Cooper Convertible with the auto CVT transmission. I complained immediately about the car hesitating to go into reverse when the car was shifted into reverse. They stated that was customary for the CVT engine. I advised that I had owned a 2007 Nissan Altima and that it too had a CVT engine and that you could not feel it shift at all (hence ... Read More

MINI Cooper Interior Questions

• Re: 6 ft 7 in [aatherton]

  Written by: bfromhold on Jun 3, 2007 7:40:34 PM

  I have a 2006 Mini Cooper S with a sunroof. My husband's 6'6 and 235 lbs. and he fits just fine. He has more room than in the Honda we used to have. My husband does lean his seat back, but not as much as he had to in our Honda (that also had a sunroof). The best thing for you is to go sit in one and see for yourself. ... Read More

MINI Cooper Clutch & Transmission Questions

• Re: Automatic Trans Problems and Overheating [geochavez]

  Written by: winniep on May 23, 2007 5:11:50 PM

  I have a 2002 Mini Cooper with a CVT engine and 55K miles on it. This morning when I was driving to go teach my 2nd grade class, my car stopped running in the middle of the road. This was not the first time this happened-the car had stopped on me three times previously, once in the middle of a busy freeway-but this was the first time the check engine light ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2006 Cooper Recommended?

  Written by: mtl718 on May 21, 2007 11:54:07 AM

  Hi, this is my first post. I'm considering buying a new 2006 Mini (standard). I've seen such mixed reviews on the 06 (especially clutch problems), but the 06 is rated better than earlier models (and better than the 07 because of the new engine). What's the consensus on the 06, and on buying a new car from the last model year? thanks

• got my Mini

  Written by: tica on Apr 30, 2007 11:25:26 AM

  !!!! I went out to do another test drive yesterday and it turns out I must have had a bum car with that stuck steering wheel because I parallel parked 5 times in a row and this one held up fine. I ended up getting a car on the lot--perhaps a little more car than I bargained for--and more options than I initially intended, but it seemed better than waiting while ... Read More

• Re: which year for used purchase [alexstjo]

  Written by: cct1 on Apr 14, 2007 7:22:06 AM

  First of all, there have been many transmission problems with the CVT. The other issue with the CVT is its a dog--its absolutely awful! It takes the Mini, which is otherwise a quick, spry car and makes it so sluggish that it loses much of the fun of driving it. In my opinion, its actually a bit dangerous--it accelerates so slowly, its really a bit dangerous trying to accelerate uphill on ... Read More

• 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

• Re: which year for used purchase [alexstjo]

  Written by: mini_dreams on Apr 11, 2007 11:42:43 AM

  best to stay away from the 2002, in my opinion, as things were still getting worked out and there were some problems. Also probably the 2003s. I would look at 2004s to 2006s. The 2007 is a new production (and engine) so again, there may be some initial problems. The 2006 would be your best bet as that was when most problems had been worked out, but finding a used one ... Read More

• Re: ordering a mini [subie321]

  Written by: jaxs1 on Mar 31, 2007 6:08:16 PM

  Yes, dealers still have 2006 models on their lots that they want to move, so no discounts on 2007s. They still normally sell for MSRP anyway. Most dealers gouge and sell over MSRP to people too desperate to walk away and look elsewhere. As long as you don't go crazy with options and end up with a $30K Cooper or $34K Cooper S, you will get alot of your money back ... Read More

• 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: Manual or Automatic?

• Re: Why the shift to Peugot engines? [Mr_Shiftright]

  Written by: cct1 on Mar 23, 2007 2:26:22 PM

  Red and white is classic, it looks great--but it is very common. Its ok if there aren't a lot of Mini's around your parts, but there are two red and white mini's in the parking lot where I work--and I live in a small town. I really love the combo, but I didn't want to be the third red and white mini in the same parking lot. I am not a ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: ... [plekto]

  Written by: cct1 on Mar 23, 2007 12:07:20 PM

  The old engine, (the one made in Brazil) the Tritec, is a tried and true bulletproof iron block engine. The supercharged version on the Mini S has won some impressive awards--its a well respected engine in the industry. It's very reliable, and virtually indestructible; reliability has proven to be outstanding. The new engine is much more sophisticated, but the jury is out on wether its more reliable. Its simply too soon ... Read More

• Re: Buying a new 2006 Mini cooper convertible with Automatic Transmission [nids]

  Written by: brucepadgett on Mar 13, 2007 2:04:16 PM

  Hi. I'm considering a similar purchase. Would you please tell me which dealer in SoCal offered you the $24.5 deal? Thanks.

• Re: Are they still selling for MSRP? [turbotorque]

  Written by: martijnh on Feb 6, 2007 10:15:49 AM

  1: Dunno. I would assume that the new model (2007) sells for sticker. 2: 10000 miles. 3: 2006 Cooper fits a 50 lbs Siberian husky. Don't bring much else though... The MINI is awesome though. You won't regret it, there is no car like it.

MINI Cooper Interior Questions

• Re: will my friends fit? [bballernva]

  Written by: bfromhold on Dec 9, 2006 11:44:43 AM

  Hi bballernva~ My husband is 6'6 and 235 lbs. and he swears he has more head and leg room (when he puts the seat back) then my Honda did. I bought my car new in Texas (faster & a better price) and we drove it home to Washington State. The odometer had nearly 4,000 miles from all the national parks we visited on the way home. I'm more than sure you'll ... Read More

Article Comments: 2006 Sport Compact Comparison Test

• Article Comments: 2006 Sport Compact Comparison Test

  Written by: KarenS on Dec 4, 2006 2:11:16 PM

  Check out our comparison including these vehicles: 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Supercharged, 2006 Honda Civic Si, 2007 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3, 2006 Mini Cooper S, 2006 Subaru WRX and 2006 Volkswagen GTI. Post your comments here! 2006 Sport Compact Comparison Test

Best Hot Hatch - SVT, Civic Si, GTI, RSX, Mini, Beetle...

• 2006 Sport Compact Comparison

  Written by: rorr on Dec 4, 2006 8:03:05 AM

  Here it is: Edmunds comparison test of the (in alphabetical order) Civic Si, Cobalt SS, Mazdaspeed3, Mini Cooper S, Suburu WRX TR, and VW GTI. Since all (except the Cobalt) are available as hatchbacks, I thought this would be a good place to hash this one out.... http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=117762?tid=edmund- s.il.home.photopanel..1.*

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• 2006 CVT comes standard with Paddle Shifters

  Written by: bfromhold on Dec 2, 2006 10:07:18 AM

  F.Y.I. ~ My 2006 does have the Paddle Shifters as standard. You won't have to wait for a 2007 to get them. My new love's specs: 2006 Mini Cooper S, Hyper blue w/white top & bonnet stripes, chrome exterior & chrome interior, Premium/Sport/Convenience/& Cold Weather pkgs, black panther English leather interior, cockpit chrono pack, Harmon Kardon stereo, etc. We've already racked nearly 6,000 miles on it. I had a nice long ... Read More

• Re: thanks [tica]

  Written by: bfromhold on Nov 22, 2006 10:36:57 AM

  Hi Tica ~ Okay.... I had to say something in support of the MINI with the CVT transmission. I have a 2006 Mini Cooper S with the CVT transmission. Both my husband and I drive it, and we haven't noticed anything that I would consider "dangerous" in the 6,000 miles we have put on it. I've had previous cars with automatics (Honda, Audi, VW, Porsche, etc.) and think the transmission in ... Read More

• Re: thanks [tica]

  Written by: cct1 on Nov 21, 2006 8:59:04 AM

  The price of the base Cooper goes up six hundred bucks, but it comes standard with a few extras that weren't on the previous generation (traction control being one of them, which you're going to want anyway). You'll have to add 1350.00 for the automatic (which is about what it was on the previous generation, if I remember correctly). All in all, if you're going for a Cooper, and an automatic, ... Read More

2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S

• Re: 2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S [sharice]

  Written by: cct1 on Nov 19, 2006 5:55:35 PM

  Hard to be impartial if you're selling them... As for reliability, the 2006 Mini is now on the recommended list for CR. As for a better buy, it depends on what you're after. I own both a Mini and a Mitsubishi; I like the Mitsubish, but I love the Mini. The Mini has much more personality than the Eclipse--the Eclipse is a great looking car, but the Mini gets second looks/comments ... Read More

• Re: 2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S [hockeyfreak4]

  Written by: sharice on Nov 19, 2006 1:11:37 PM

  Hi hockeyfreak4, I sell Mitsubishi's at Planet Mitsubishi in Modesto, Ca. I feel the Eclipse is the better buy. I am not trying to be partial, however the Eclipse is well made and easier to get. Sharice 209-524-3600

• Re: 2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S [hockeyfreak4]

  Written by: elgatoloco on Nov 18, 2006 9:51:08 AM

  Yes, as sandra8410 points out, the Eclipse & the Mini are two pretty different vehicles. The Mini is kind of "nerdy cute" imo while the Eclipse GT is pretty much a sports car. My sister finally got her Eclipse Gt about 4 weeks ago. Total black & loaded, including optional ground effects. You definitly have two very different choices here. One more thing, if you are any kind of tuner / ... Read More

• Re: 2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S [hockeyfreak4]

  Written by: sandra8410 on Nov 17, 2006 12:51:31 PM

  Seriously! You are comparing a mini to an eclipse! In my opinion, a mini is just that! The Eclipse is sexy, sleek and hot!

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: need advice on options for Mini [tica]

  Written by: cct1 on Nov 17, 2006 12:45:53 PM

  My take: First thing: I'd strongly recommend a manual. The automatic Cooper is a CVT, and it's a dog. It's almost dangerous the way it accelerates from a standstill. I own an S, but a Manual base Cooper is also a blast to drive--although I prefer the S, the Manual base Cooper is a hoot too, and if the S wasn't an option, I'd get one in a second. 1. I ... Read More

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

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Buying 2006 Mini Cooper S [jaydeepb]

  Written by: bgates222 on Oct 21, 2006 10:51:57 PM

  hi i was wondering did you lease or finance ? if so did they bargin msrp or straight msrp deal? i went there this morning to manhattan and they said that they are straight msrp

Article Comments: 2007 Mini Cooper S First Drive

• Re: Hmm... [slicksix]

  Written by: actualsize on Oct 20, 2006 6:41:15 PM

  I drove an "old" 2006 Cooper S and a 2006 Civic Si back to back on the racetrack at Willow Springs - the so-called "Streets" course. The Civic Si was about a second faster per lap, but it was shod with the optional high performance "summer" tires, while the Mini had 16" all-seasons - the 17" summer tire option not installed on the car I drove. 17" summer tires on the ... Read More

MINI Cooper Lease Questions

• Re: Mini Cooper MF and Residual Request [earcom]

  Written by: Car_man on Oct 18, 2006 4:45:08 AM

  You're very welcome, earcom. As usual, Mini is not currently providing any sort of lease support on its cars. As a result, if you were to lease one through its captive finance company right now, you will have to use its standard lease money factor. Its standard factors vary by region, but should currently be around .00289 for consumers who qualify for its top credit tier, give or take. Its current ... Read More

MINI Cooper Owners: Meet the Members

• Ordered a new 2006

  Written by: vikasachh on Oct 10, 2006 1:25:35 PM

  I just ordered a new 2006 cooper S. I am so excited. I have been reading this forum for quite some time tracking mini issues. Thanks to all who contribute here. I had to dig deep in my pockets to get this. I am trading in my 05 Corolla. I wanted something fun to drive. But I am having some doubts in my head now if I made the right choice. ... Read More

MINI Cooper Lease Questions

• Mini Cooper MF and Residual Request

  Written by: earcom on Oct 8, 2006 10:12:29 PM

  Hello Car_Man, Like many people on these boards I depend on your assistance when purchasing/leasing cars and in this case I would like to know the October 2006 money factors and residuals for both the Mini Cooper and the Mini Cooper S for 36 months and 12K miles. Thank you for all of the information and assistance that you provide.

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Buying a new 2006 Mini cooper convertible with Automatic Transmission [nids]

  Written by: cct1 on Oct 4, 2006 9:14:40 AM

  1. With the packages, the car will be easier to sell, but it's going to depreciate more. The car without all the accessories is going to depreciate less, but it's going to be harder to sell. If you're going to buy a convertible, I'd go with the one without the packages; I don't think the premium package is as important to the convertible as it is to the hardtop, and the ... Read More

• Buying a new 2006 Mini cooper convertible with Automatic Transmission

  Written by: nids on Oct 3, 2006 10:49:04 AM

  Hi, I have been communicating with a few dealers in the Southern CA area about a new 2006 Mini cooper convertible with Automatic Transmission. I got a quote for a silver mini cooper convertible with Automatic Transmission, premium package for $25,650. The dealer is making me buy extra maintenance for 1 year for $1000 or an iPod interface for $800. That brings the cost to $26,645 or $26,445. Another dealer is ... Read More

• Re: Buying 2006 Mini Cooper S [jaydeepb]

  Written by: gazoo93 on Sep 22, 2006 9:56:39 PM

  Just started lurking here a couple days ago and found lots of good info. Thanks all. I just ordered a 2006 Mini Cooper S hardtop from Towson Mini (i.e. Baltimore), so they still have some open slots if that helps anyone.

• Press request

  Written by: KarenS on Sep 21, 2006 10:57:15 AM

  A reporter seeks to talk with current owners of the Mini Cooper. Please send your daytime contact info and the model year of your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Wednesday, September 27, 2006. Thanks, Jeannine Fallon Corporate Communications Edmunds.com

MINI Cooper Owners: Meet the Members

• Press request

  Written by: KarenS on Sep 21, 2006 10:55:24 AM

  A reporter seeks to talk with current owners of the Mini Cooper. Please send your daytime contact info and the model year of your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Wednesday, September 27, 2006. Thanks, Jeannine Fallon Corporate Communications Edmunds.com

MINI Cooper Convertible

• Press request

  Written by: KarenS on Sep 21, 2006 10:54:50 AM

  A reporter seeks to talk with current owners of the Mini Cooper. Please send your daytime contact info and the model year of your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Wednesday, September 27, 2006. Thanks, Jeannine Fallon Corporate Communications Edmunds.com

MINI Cooper

• Press Request

  Written by: KarenS on Sep 21, 2006 10:54:16 AM

  A reporter seeks to talk with current owners of the Mini Cooper. Please send your daytime contact info and the model year of your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Wednesday, September 27, 2006. Thanks, Jeannine Fallon Corporate Communications Edmunds.com

• Press request

  Written by: KarenS on Sep 21, 2006 10:53:09 AM

  A reporter seeks to talk with current owners of the Mini Cooper. Please send your daytime contact info and the model year of your vehicle to jfallon@edmunds.com no later than Wednesday, September 27, 2006. Thanks, Jeannine Fallon Corporate Communications Edmunds.com

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Buying 2006 Mini Cooper S [markjenn]

  Written by: jaydeepb on Sep 17, 2006 9:42:34 AM

  Quick update! I went to Mini of Manhatten and ordered my 2006 Hyperblue Mini Cooper S. it will be develivered mid to end of October!! I'm really excited and can't wait! Didn't want to buy a car from the lot. Jaydeep

• Re: Buying 2006 Mini Cooper S [jaydeepb]

  Written by: markjenn on Sep 12, 2006 10:57:39 PM

  If you want one of the current-generation 06's you're proabbly past the ordering deadline. The factory is starting the conversion over to the new 07's which are heavily revised, including a completely new engine. - Mark

• Buying 2006 Mini Cooper S

  Written by: jaydeepb on Sep 12, 2006 6:15:12 PM

  Hi, I'm interested in custom odering a 2006 Mini Cooper S and wanted to know how the experience has been. Is there anything that can be done with pricing? I'm in the Tri-State area. Thanks for the help! Jaydeep

MINI Cooper

• Re: CVT [bodble2]

  Written by: andys120 on Sep 4, 2006 7:56:10 PM

  Did Mini replace the CVT with a conventional 6-speed Steptronic for the Base Cooper for 2006? I didn't see any reference to CVT on the Mini.ca site. AFAIK that is the case.

• CVT

  Written by: bodble2 on Sep 4, 2006 10:35:25 AM

  Did Mini replace the CVT with a conventional 6-speed Steptronic for the Base Cooper for 2006? I didn't see any reference to CVT on the Mini.ca site.

What is "wrong" with these new subcompacts?

• But guys,

  Written by: boaz47 on Aug 28, 2006 8:50:26 PM

  lets be serious. Maybe many don't like SUVs, or Powerful sports cars, or big luxury cars but they aren't bought just because people want to explore their capabilities. All of us that have been married realize our wives could just as easily have bought a nice evening dress rather than a wedding dress they would use once and it cost more than our first car. Heck, that ring cost more than ... Read More

MINI Cooper Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: Help, please, for vehicle-challenged woman ready to purchase [heyheyjud

  Written by: mini_dreams on Aug 24, 2006 8:43:38 PM

  No problem... glad to help and inspire. I've gotten some good advice and help here, so I'm trying to give back. I'm obviously a bit of a miniac even without having one yet. Once I have mine, I'll be able to provide more concrete info. and experience. But I know I'm going to love it as most people here seem to. Having a car you actuallly like to drive makes a ... Read More

• Re: Help, please, for vehicle-challenged woman ready to purchase [heyheyjud

  Written by: mini_dreams on Aug 24, 2006 2:03:16 PM

  I am not yet a full-fledged Mini owner, yet, because I have one on order. But, I am looking forward to it. Not sure you where you are in the south, but if you are near Memphis, you should check out Roadshow Mini. They are GREAT to deal with. I've put them through the ropes with all of my questions and test drives and they've never been anything but helpful. Also, ... Read More

2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S

• 2007 Eclipse GT or 2006 mini cooper S

  Written by: hockeyfreak4 on Aug 6, 2006 9:56:30 PM

  I am deciding to either buy a 2007 Eclipse GT or a 2006 mini cooper S. I love both cars. I was wondering what you guys think is the better buy. Please reply.

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

• Re: Factory info I found interesting online [cct1]

  Written by: bfromhold on Jul 29, 2006 8:31:54 AM

  cct~ Here's the reply email I got from the Mini Cooper factory in Oxford England about closures and or production of the Mini's being slowed: Dear * * * Thank you for your email to MINI Customer Information. We can confirm that during the summer of 2006 an extended closure is planned for the refurbishment of the visitor centre at plant Oxford and updates to the tour. The dates of this ... Read More

• Re: getting around mark ups.... and 2006 vs. 2007? and maintenance... [chl

  Written by: mini_dreams on Jul 20, 2006 1:55:14 PM

  Hi Chloe, I've been looking at new Minis, too. I'm in Memphis and there is one dealership here. There's also one in Nashville. They sell the Cooper at $17,450, which I believe is the base price. Then there is the cost for whatever add-ons are already on the car, then whatever the dealer adds. However, they said I can avoid that by "building my own" online and then ordering it through ... Read More

MINI Cooper Lease Questions

• Re: 2006 Cooper S Lease money factor [mattinla]

  Written by: Car_man on Jul 16, 2006 11:42:21 AM

  Hi mattinla. See my previous post for info on Mini's money factors. As far as their acquisition fees go, BMW FS charges an acquisition fee of $625 in most states. If you are asked to pay more than this, there is a good chance that the dealer you are working with is trying to mark your car's factor up to add additional back-end profit to your deal. Car_man Host Prices Paid ... Read More

• Re: 2006 Cooper S Lease money factor [minilover]

  Written by: Car_man on Jul 16, 2006 10:54:04 AM

  Wow, minilover, the money factor that you were quoted is really bad. Even though BMW is not providing any sort of lease support on Minis right now, its standard lease money factors are a lot better than that. BMW Financial Services' current buy rate lease money factor for consumers who lease a Mini and qualify for its top credit tier is actually around .00385 and for consumers who qualify for the ... Read More

• Re: 2006 Cooper S Lease money factor [minilover]

  Written by: saabgirl on Jul 13, 2006 8:38:51 PM

  If you can take your car payment as a tax deduction leasing may make sense. But for everyone else, as your example shows, it's probably financially nuts, especially for a hot car. In this case, you shovel in $6500. Then you shovel in another $500 per for X months. At the end, they keep all the money and you give them back the car. Nonono. My .02 is that someone in ... Read More

MINI Cooper Care & Maintenance

• Is the extended warranty & maintenance worth the money?

  Written by: bfromhold on Jul 11, 2006 7:32:28 PM

  Well, I ordered my 2006 Mini Cooper S today with all the packages offered (Sport, Premium, Cold Weather, and Convenience) not to mention all the chrome upgrades on the interior & exterior, chrono pack, park distance control, rear fog light, 8-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, English panther leather, etc... Yikes! $ $ $ My question is should I also purchase the extended warranty & maintenance? I've been averaging about 18,000 miles ... Read More

MINI Cooper Lease Questions

• Re: 2006 Cooper S Lease money factor [minilover]

  Written by: mattinla on Jun 21, 2006 10:07:25 AM

  I thought Mini's MF's were more in the .0038 range (9+%)...I paid an $800 bank fee. But $6500 down resulting in an over $500 payment seems like you are being screwed.

• 2006 Cooper S Lease money factor

  Written by: minilover on Jun 21, 2006 9:36:47 AM

  Picking up my mini today. Have been quoted MF of .00435 for 15K miles on a selling price of $29349. They are charging me a bank fee of $850. The MF seems to relate to an APR of 10.44%!!!! When I do my own lease calcs (using something I got off the internet) my payment should be about $439 (incl CA sales tax at 8.25%. the payment they quote (oh sorry...6500 ... Read More

• Re: 2006 Cooper S Lease Questions [jamaica77]

  Written by: qbrozen on Jun 21, 2006 6:37:06 AM

  leasing isn't even an option when comparing these choices. If you choose to finance, you'd most likely have equity after 3 years of payments, vs nothing at the end of the 3 year lease. As you suspect, the MF in the Mini lease deal is just not favorable in the least. I know nothing of their balloon note, but if you have to buy it at the end, it doesn't seem ... Read More

• 2006 Cooper S Lease Questions

  Written by: jamaica77 on Jun 20, 2006 7:33:09 PM

  My girlfriend is trying to decide between buying or leasing a 2006 MCS. The total purchase price is $25,450. In running these numbers through the MINI.com calculators, she gets about a $450/mo payment with 2500 down, 6%APR, and 60 month term. When she calculates a 36 mos lease with 1k cap reduction she gets a payment of $456 - which I assume is the result of the high purchase price and ... Read More

• Re: Current #'s? [cvpacguy]

  Written by: Car_man on Jun 6, 2006 2:47:13 AM

  Hi cvpacguy. BMW is not currently providing any sort of lease support on the Mini Cooper. As a result, if you were to lease one through its captive finance company right now, you would have to use its standard lease money factor. This number varies by region, but it should be around .00280 or so. The residual value for a 24 month lease of a base 2006 Cooper with 15,000 miles ... Read More

MINI Cooper Owners: Meet the Members

• Re: MINI Cooper Owners: Meet the Members [KarenS]

  Written by: violetdc on Jun 2, 2006 5:36:14 AM

  Hello every1!!! I just purchased a 2006 Mini in March, and am loving it! My granddaughter (4 yrs.) tells me, Gramma, I LIKE this car! everytime she gets in! LOL Is any1 planning 2 join the drive from CA to CT this summer? I live in DC and plan 2 join in when they come thru on 9/2 and drive 2 NJ ... great oppty. 2 visit family! Hope 2 see ... Read More