1st Gen R52 Cooper Convertible Considering buying a Convertible

Discussion in '1st Generation: 2002–06 R50, R53 & 2004–08 R52' started by MCS02, Feb 24, 2013.

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  1. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #1 MCS02, Feb 24, 2013
    As some of you know I gave my son my 02 S. I was not planning on getting anything yet but a local Ford dealer has a 05 convertible s for sale.
    The car looks to be in decent shape. I went by and took a quick look at it.
    I plan on going back on Wednesday and put it on the rack and give it a good going over.
    The only thing I found today is it’s missing the rubber volume knob on the radio. Also the rubber weather strip above and below the rear chrome peace needs to be replaced.
    One concern I have is the salesman told me they topped off the power steering tank, I hope they used the correct fluid.
    Other than the usual R53 items I should check. Does anyone have some suggestions on what I should look at on a convertible?
    Thanks for the Help
     
  2. Nathan

    Nathan Founder

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    #2 Nathan, Feb 25, 2013
    Check that the top opens and closes smoothly.
     
  3. eMINIparts

    eMINIparts Well-Known Member
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    #3 eMINIparts, Feb 25, 2013
    Be sure to check that the top is not seperating on the sides. Leaks check for leaks might be a good bargaining tool.....Either way if thats the one you want hope it works out!!.....:Thumbsup:
     
  4. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #4 MCS02, Feb 25, 2013
    Thanks guys! I've always wonted a convertible. But I would like to do a track day. My son told me I could use his for the track days. Good Boy.
    Thanks agin
     
  5. Eric@Helix

    Eric@Helix New Member
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    #5 Eric@Helix, Feb 25, 2013
    Lolz. A hardtop would be much better for track.
     
  6. Crashton

    Crashton Club Coordinator

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    #6 Crashton, Feb 25, 2013
    I'd investigate what PS fluid was put in there. If it was the wrong stuff you could be buying a problem. Like has been said verify the top works as it should. If it does then that is all good. Putting it up on the lift is a good idea. Pay close attention the the power steering pump & associated hoses.

    You are a great Dad! Good luck. :Thumbsup:
     
  7. Jason Montague

    Jason Montague New Member
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    #7 Jason Montague, Feb 25, 2013
    :cornut: Yeah-what Crashton said. Make sure of the power steering fluid and that the power steering cooling fan is working. At idle put your ear(be safe) close to the super charger and listen for grinding noises and look for oil leaks. Was it MINI cared for or cared for by 'Johnny's shade tree mechanic shop?' Is there a service log? Racking it is an excellent idea and so is a city street and interstate test drive. GOOD LUCK!:Thumbsup:

    Jason
     
  8. Friskie

    Friskie Well-Known Member

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    #8 Friskie, Feb 25, 2013
    Scour Ebay for a R52 wind deflector. Also, carry a tube of good sunscreen in the little mesh basket behind the passenger seat where it is handy. Pub caps work better than ball caps. Build a local reputation for hard core topless motoring.
     
  9. Crashton

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    #9 Crashton, Feb 25, 2013
    This is great! :D
     
  10. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #10 MCS02, Feb 25, 2013
    I am going to look at two hard tops a 03 and 06. One does have a sun roof.

    I called the local dealer today to check on the price of the rubber weather strip above the boot, its completely gone,cost $160.00 each. So no matter what els I find I hope they are ready to deal. The power steering fluid will need to be changed just to be safe.

    I was planning to wait till later in the year and see if I could swing a R53 GP. It would be a long shot. The problem is I'm driving a 88 Acura Integra. The head gasket is leaking water into one of the cylinders. Every time I shut it off I have to pop the radiator cap to keep water out of the cylinder. I plan on fixing it when the weather is better.

    Thanks for the help :Thumbsup:
     
  11. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #11 MCS02, Feb 25, 2013
    I have already been doing the topless motoring but it seems no one, not even my wife is impressed. :D
     
  12. eMINIparts

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    #12 eMINIparts, Feb 25, 2013
    OR................Get another R53 and you can take the boy to the track and have father son races......just an idea
     
  13. Friskie

    Friskie Well-Known Member

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    #13 Friskie, Feb 26, 2013
    When the sky is blue, not a cloud in the sky and the thermometer reads 23° on your OBC, EVERYBODY will be impressed. When they make ignorant comments you will know to answer with: "That's what hats, coats and gloves are made for" in the most dignified manner you can muster.
     
  14. BlimeyCabrio

    BlimeyCabrio Oscar Goldman of MINIs
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    #14 BlimeyCabrio, Feb 26, 2013
    I got a furry bomber hat for Christmas... just for winter top-down motoring.

    Added bonus - fewer people screw with you when they think you're crazy.
     
  15. Friskie

    Friskie Well-Known Member

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    #15 Friskie, Feb 26, 2013
    My dad had one of those only he called it his 'Mad Bomber' hat. He was a funny looking dude in it and while wearing it, his personal space was excessive. I'll have to go look in mom's apartment and see is it still around. Could be just the thing.:Thumbsup:
     
  16. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #16 MCS02, Feb 26, 2013
    I traded my 1987 325is Convertible for the MINI. I do miss being able to put my top down. On my work days I get back to the airport around midnight or 1 AM. I always enjoyed putting my top down at night. Motoring at night is the best.
     
  17. Amanda2010

    Amanda2010 New Member

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    #17 Amanda2010, May 12, 2013
    Just picked up my new (to me) 2010 CS convertible, trading in my 2010 CS hard top (just joined to research wind deflectors) - they obviously both have their good points, but I say go for the convertible!
     

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