There are two significant problems with the third-generation Mini Cooper Hatchback (the second-gen under BMW’s watch), but the biggest of them all is the 1.6-liter four-cylinder Prince engine. Peugeot supplied the core engine, and BMW incorporated its Valvetronic technology. The French and the Brits have done some insane things to each other over the last 1,000 or so years, but this engine has to count as the worst thing they’ve done collectively.
The naturally aspirated version of the engine is fine, so if you’re going to buy an R56, make sure it’s a base-spec model or even the stripped-out One trim. The turbocharged N14 engine has many common flaws, including a delicate timing chain tensioner, a problematic wastegate vacuum valve, and a fragile high-pressure fuel pump. And that’s before we even get to the gearbox issues.
Basically, any Cooper with an S badge pasted to the rear will be a money pit. You can buy one, and it will be fun to drive, but you need to get a full and comprehensive service history. And you need to watch out for those common flaws and do preventative maintenance.
