Mini Roadster and Mini Mechanic recs

[Anja]

Hello,

I'm new to the DMV area and interested in buying my first car (ever), and I decided on a Mini Roadster.

Does anyone have experience with the Roadster, and would like to share?

Also, I am looking for a good, Mini mechanic who would be able to help with some Pre Purchase Inspections - if you have recommendations please let me know.

Thank you!

Edited Friday at 08:35 PM by Anja

[scotty]

Welcome to the DMV and the club, I really don't know the in's and out's of the roadster but they do look cool, I would guess it would be like any other mini as depending on the year of the car you may have to anticipate a lot of maintenance but as far as a good mini mechanic a lot of the members go to GT peace in Chantilly because they are great over there. That's about all I could give ya, good luck and when you get your roadster I would love to see it.

[Anja]

Thank you! will check out the GT peace - very helpful

[1975_mini]

GT Peace will definately be able to help with a PPI. I own a coupe, so the hardtop version of the roadster. The platform itself is the same as all gen 2 MINIs when it comes to drivetrain.

 

- I would recommend only looking at 2010 or newer if looking a cooper or cooper S models as these are the refreshes with the N18 verus the N14 motor. Do be sure to have a PPI with a shop familiar with MINIs (like GT Peace) as the will know the main issues to check on the gen2 drivetrain (thermostat housing, water pump, oil filter housing gasket, timing chain).

 

As for Roadster specific, the rear glass in the soft top is know to fall out i the car was stored outside in prolong direct sunlight. The ahesive for the window deteriates and cause the window to fail. 

 

Tips on owning a coupe/roadster, be sure to test drive it in some traffic with the top up. The coupe/roadster have some pretty big blind spots you have to get used to.