At the moment I'm still contemplating. Would a R53 cost as much to maintain? I don't earn a lot of money, and was hoping that I wouldn't have to drop a few thousand dollars a year in maintenance. It looks like my trade or sale value would be around $7,500 to $9500 on this one. Aside from needing thousands of dollars dropped into it every year to keep it running it's in good shape. If I could find a cheaper older MINI that I could buy outright, or have a small payment on, I'd do that. Or a VW GTI, if they aren't too expensive. Or maybe I could get a job that pays a living wage... heh. Sorry, I'm very depressed at the moment.
PM Jeff Kerr-05R50 and talk to him about what he did to replace his. It wasn't close to $2,000 if I remember correctly.
Thats a hard hit for anyone. Sorry. Almost all my cars I buy used. That being said if you get an R53 have a pre buy done by a good shop. Make sure the person that owned it took good care of the car. I like to deal with individuals, if I can. You can get hosed buying used if you don't take your time, but you can get some good deals if your careful. This is just my .02. The R53 is a more reliable. It has its issues all cars do. But they are small. the biggest issue I have had is the power steering pump. I know I will have some disagree with me on this, and thats fine (You need lots of advice). But I hate turbos. Always have always will. If I had a track toy I may consider one. But not on my every day ride. Can my SC give out? yes but It does not bring near the problems a turbo does. I think Turbos can be cool as long as its not my car. Good luck and sorry about the trouble you've had.
I am sorry for your turbo but not to anyone's surprise I say..... :ihih: R53 R53 R53 R53 R53 :lol::lol::lol:
Here you go: http://www.motoringalliance.com/forums/minis-sale/22150-2006-mcs-chili-red-75-300-miles.html#axzz36Pg3FwyY
Yep. I can help out. Had to replace my turbo on my JCW and found a number of suppliers with rebuilt parts etc and saved lots of money. Its tedious but not horrible to work on. Let me know if you want some advice on how to proceed.