Mini advice

[j4ckos mate]

Hi to all
Swimbo wanted a beetle but I've managed to dodge that bullet.
We are now looking at a mini 2001-2005 between 2-3000gbp
She's adamant she wants the pan roof on it but not bothered if it's a one or cooper. I can see they have a chain and that there are some mega miles ones knocking about that look in very good condition so they appear reliable

So can you chaps point me In the right direction for some buying hints and tips please?
Much appreciated

[FuryExocet]

The facelift was 2005 I think. We had an 05 Cooper with the panoramic roof and it was really nice.

[Odhran]

For the top of your budget you could probably get an 03, maybe an 04 if you tried hard enough. Have sold a few minis although never one with a pan roof. Would be a nice option to have I think!

[nottyash]

FuryExocet said:

The facelift was 2005 I think. We had an 05 Cooper with the panoramic roof and it was really nice.

No it was sometime in 04

[mike9009]

We had a 52 plate Mini One from new. Had a sunroof which I thought was a great option. I think others have mentioned common faults

1. Gearbox after facelift in 2004 these are not an issue. Look at the position of the rear foglight/ reverse light to tell the difference in adverts.
2. Power steering pumps can fail. I think the greater strain from wider tyres than the One/ Cooper can encourage the failure.
3. Airbag lights (fairly obvious really to spot)

The drive on our One was lovely. It didn't rattle and did not have runflat tyres. It is the only 'new' car we have ever bought. It cost around £11,600 and six years later we part exed for £6000. We bought a Cooper S then......

TBH, the only issue we had was the airbag light.

Mike

[Maracus]

mike9009 said:

Look at the position of the rear foglight/ reverse light to tell the difference in adverts.

Reverse in the centre is pre facelift.

Fog light in the centre is post facelift.

[Pip1968]

mike9009 said:

3. Airbag lights (fairly obvious really to spot)

TBH, the only issue we had was the airbag light.

Mike

What is it with the airbag lights ?????? ???? I had it reset for the MoT and a week or two later there it goes again. It is so annoying I would be happy to rip the whole lot out airbag and all.

Pip