My previous car got totaled recently and put me back in the market for a used car. I happened to stumble across this 2015 Mini Cooper 4-Door Hatchback right at the top of my budget.

I had always wanted a mini, and even considered spending more than my budget to get a slightly newer one, but I figured this will do for my first — and I will say, I love it so much already! It’s so fun to drive and makes my 20ish minute commute to work so much more enjoyable. I’ve only had it two days and have already decided I can never drive anything but a MINI again…

I’ve got temp tags rn, so I need to go to the DMV to register it. I’m debating if I should get a custom license plate. It feels like a “lil blue” type of car. That’s how I’ve started referencing it as to my friends 😅


It’s unfortunately sat out in the sun for almost a year at the dealership, so the rubber between the hood and window shield is cracking and going to need replaced. It’s also missing the shade on the front sun roof which is also something I’m planning to replace.

Other than that it is at 85,000 miles so I know some maintenance / repairs are probably going to need to be done soon 🥲 here’s what it’s had according to carfax:
- 47,000/2020: tires mounted (One is looking especially low on tread, so im planning to replace all 4 before winter)
- 61,000/2022: tires rotated
- 68,000/2023: brake fluid flushed/changed; engine mount(s) replaced
- 69,000/2023: battery replaced 
- 85,000/2024: oil and filter changed 

It’s due for inspection in October. Other than oil and tires, are there other preventing maintenance I should plan to do in the next few months? Or repairs that are likely to be needed?

I know other people near me with MINIs who have been able to recommend some European mechanics, and then there’s also the dealership, but I’ve heard local mechanics are typically better for fairer prices. 
 
Thanks everyone. I appreciate any advice or knowledge on MINIs you can offer 🤗

My first MINI! Maintenance advice?