Advice on purchasing a Mini Cooper S R53

Hi, I’m looking to purchase an R53 for about a grand. I understand you get what you pay for but what are the obvious things to look out for or should I just step away as this will turn into a money pit with things going wrong left right and centre? I’m waiting to hear back about mileage etc but below is a picture of it.

Attachment 8497

Just has a bit more info, it’s done 148k and has a slight tool leak from somewhere.

I should have added that I’m fairly new to mini’s I have a Mini Dooper which is a real great work horse.

I’d try and find out where the oil leak is first, if it’s coming from the rear crank case seal then your looking at a big bill as the gearbox needs to come out as well. The tailgates are prone to rust above the handle. Check for any knocks etc. You’ll probably find with the sort of mileage your going to be looking at a few big bills. If your set on an R53 I’d see if you can get a lower mileage car without an oil leak.

Cheers Mini William
I went and seen it. Someone had removed the twin pipe at the back and had cut a hole at the rear drivers side to put a side exhaust on it. The boots rust was bad, the interior was gone and the engine was moist with oil to say the least so I’ve walked away. Ideally I’d like to buy a Cooper S for around the £2k mark and do it up and have it for a weekend car. Thanks again for the advice.

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Originally Posted by MikeY

Cheers Mini William
I went and seen it. Someone had removed the twin pipe at the back and had cut a hole at the rear drivers side to put a side exhaust on it. The boots rust was bad, the interior was gone and the engine was moist with oil to say the least so I’ve walked away. Ideally I’d like to buy a Cooper S for around the £2k mark and do it up and have it for a weekend car. Thanks again for the advice.

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Perfect. Sounds like a better plan

Yea loads out there for that kind of money all I would say is if you can try get a facelift model so 54 or above as if your tracking the gear box is so much better and a few other bits that all help.



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Cheers all appreciate the help. If you do see a man R54 Cooper s for sale at £2k Please give me a nudge.

Will keep my eyes peeled. Any specific’s/must haves?