Buying a MINI?

I'm currently looking at buying an 02 MINI, with 109,000 miles on it. The car is in great shape, but are there any issues I should be aware of? I've heard of issues with electronic power steering systems, and with strut towers in certain models. Is this something I should be concerned about on this model? Any help would be appreciated, Thanks.

automatic? the CVTs aren't known for their robustness and the 02s seem to have a lot of issues... you should really check out northamericanmotoring.com it's a better MINI site than here.

Agreed, but not as friendly.

Beware they are kind of elitist at first.

Early Coopers have a bad reputation for quality control. Keep away from the CVTs!!!

The strut tower mushrooming seems to happen to all of them eventually unless you get some strut reinforcing plates from one of the many aftermarket suppliers.

Tires can be pricey too. Our 06 Cooper S has 17" wheels for summer and winter, and they add up. After the initial honeymoon period I could live with 16" wheels and a more forgiving ride.

Oh and windshields tend to be fragile. And expensive if they're heated or with rain sensor.

Given the small price differences these days, I'd strongly encourage you to avoid a 2002-2003 model and look for a 2004+. The first few years had many minor/moderate issues, many would have been fixed but they can still be a bit less reliable. Also, the transmissions on the early Coopers had some issues -- the CVT and the Midlands 5-speed on the early Coopers (Cooper S did not have any transmission issues).