Hi

I recently brought a 2002 mini cooper from a trusted and recommended specialist however I believe the gearbox is going. I don't know at what point I should replace it.

It can sometimes be difficult to engage 1st; you have to take your foot off the clutch and then put it back on once or twice for it to work. The gearbox crunches nearly every time I engage reverse. During a long drive of almost continuous stop start traffic on the M25 at the weekend the gearbox started to make a whinning noise in 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
In general the gearbox just doesn't feel particularly smooth.
There is also some vibration on start up and when the car idles but I suspect this could be due to a rusty exhaust?

I'm holidaying in France mid September and don't want to run the risk of anything happening whilst driving abroad.
Funds are low because of said holiday so I'm in two minds to replace it or not. Any ideas?

If you have any doubts about a car before you embark on a long journey, I would get it checked by someone who knows.

I usually use Sussex Road and Race in littlehampton but I'll check them out. A new rattle has developed, seems to be from the gearbox/exhaust manifold area. Is this the famous death rattle people speak of?

Always start by chaning the oil. If is getting more noise after time this is becuse the oil is getting hot and is parst its best. It may not fix the problem but for the cost it is well worth trying first.