Another noted engine management problem is affectionately called the 'yo-yo' effect, in which the supercharged Cooper S models, regardless of software version, are known to deliver power in a surging or oscillating manner. One owner noted that the problem is particularly annoying while trying to drive slowly.
Hydraulic or oil-filled engine mounts may leak fluid, requiring a change at the nearest dealership. This problem was common- so ask the owner of a used Cooper you may be looking at whether or not the mount had been changed, or if it's ever leaked. This is commonly mis-diagnosed in the driveway as an engine oil leak.
It should be noted that certain models came with large wheel / low-profile tire combinations- offering little isolation between the vehicle's suspension and imperfections in the road. In this situation, the possibility of nasty damage to the cars strut towers and mounts exists. A problem called 'mushrooming' is noted, related to the deformation of Mini Cooper's strut mounting surface over time in serious conditions.
Damage to the shock towers should be plainly visible with a close visual inspection. Look at both towers- do they appear the same? If you live in an area with terrible roads, you may wish to skip a Cooper with large wheels and low-pro tires. Conversely, you may enjoy happily darting around potholes.
Looks like the Cooper falls into a description typical of many small imported cars from years ago- reliable where it counts, but not free of annoying little hard-to-diagnose problems.
Of course, the Cooper is an excellent little car in a number of areas- and its economical kicks have earned it a place in the hearts of many a value-minded motorist. Mileage is generally very good- but the real story with the Cooper is how it combines timeless looks with a real dose of sporty driving character and serious performance in "S" trim.
Important in test-driving a used Cooper or Cooper S is a lengthy run in both city and highway conditions. Additionally, potential buyers are advised to try and test drive possible candidates early in the day, or in colder weather, when some of the electrical gremlins are said to be the most prevalent.
If you've got a Mini service centre in your town, and your roads aren't too nasty, you'll likely enjoy the machine for years. But if you experience any underhood weirdness during your test drive, it may be best to look elsewhere. A full inspection by a dealer-trained mechanic is in order as well- just to be safe.
photo:MINI
Hydraulic or oil-filled engine mounts may leak fluid, requiring a change at the nearest dealership. This problem was common- so ask the owner of a used Cooper you may be looking at whether or not the mount had been changed, or if it's ever leaked. This is commonly mis-diagnosed in the driveway as an engine oil leak.
It should be noted that certain models came with large wheel / low-profile tire combinations- offering little isolation between the vehicle's suspension and imperfections in the road. In this situation, the possibility of nasty damage to the cars strut towers and mounts exists. A problem called 'mushrooming' is noted, related to the deformation of Mini Cooper's strut mounting surface over time in serious conditions.
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| 2006 MINI Cooper |
Damage to the shock towers should be plainly visible with a close visual inspection. Look at both towers- do they appear the same? If you live in an area with terrible roads, you may wish to skip a Cooper with large wheels and low-pro tires. Conversely, you may enjoy happily darting around potholes.
Looks like the Cooper falls into a description typical of many small imported cars from years ago- reliable where it counts, but not free of annoying little hard-to-diagnose problems.
Of course, the Cooper is an excellent little car in a number of areas- and its economical kicks have earned it a place in the hearts of many a value-minded motorist. Mileage is generally very good- but the real story with the Cooper is how it combines timeless looks with a real dose of sporty driving character and serious performance in "S" trim.
Important in test-driving a used Cooper or Cooper S is a lengthy run in both city and highway conditions. Additionally, potential buyers are advised to try and test drive possible candidates early in the day, or in colder weather, when some of the electrical gremlins are said to be the most prevalent.
If you've got a Mini service centre in your town, and your roads aren't too nasty, you'll likely enjoy the machine for years. But if you experience any underhood weirdness during your test drive, it may be best to look elsewhere. A full inspection by a dealer-trained mechanic is in order as well- just to be safe.
photo:MINI
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