I have a non-Crossfire I am interested in which is on a lot in Kannapolis, NC. I have spend a few long days on the phone talking to every dealer involved since delivery and finding out all else I could on the internet but the last two dealers are not real enthusiast types and could not provide much information nor understand why I would be asking so many questions.

The car is a MINI Countryman. Basically, I am interested in knowing how the black paint has held up and if there are any obvious flaws in cosmetics, smells or odd sounds. If someone would be kind enough to just take a glance I would greatly appreciate it. If a mechanic would be interested in something more thorough, I would be willing to pay for same.

Any help appreciated and could save me a long drive. I assure you I have done the same for others over the years.

Thanks in advance.

 

The bright possibilities are dimming.

The only progress is learning from the dealer the car has a slight drive train howling when driven. Research indicates repair costs from a couple of hundred to many thousands.

MINIs like money tossed at them.

 

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Only advice on this particular issue is, FIND a forum on the specific model, become a member, and ask the membership. Good luck!


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Thanks for the response and suggestion. It does make sense.

When I joined a Crossfire forum and asked if someone could check out an SRT6 for me someone did and liked it so much they bought it for themselves. I found an even better one but with a few more miles not too long later so impact was minimal (I think you may have inquired about that fine SRT6 a few years ago when I offered it on this site). I experienced the same thing with a Stag i asked someone to check out for me but in that case it took a couple of decades to find a replacement. Those experiences left me a touch jaded.

I am a long time member of a number of enthusiast sites including MINI sites but I prefer to ask an enthusiast who is more of a generalist rather than a someone who might become competition for an uncommon find.

Thanks for the good wishes.

 

Translation: "We can't admit too much, but we need a way out if this thing blows up in his face a week after he buys it. We want to appear honest."

Dont pick it.
Don't prod it.
.... just back away slowly.

 

Hey Pizzaguy

I think you are right. That could explain a lot.

The backing away is commencing. Saab has an interesting 9-7X that would work just as well without fall off a cliff potential repair bills of an AWD turbo charged MINI of an early production date.

Thanks

 

Car is now off market and I assume sold. Search is off.