Is the Mini Hatch reliable?
Overall the Mini is a reliable, well built small car that shouldn't cause you any major problems. Indeed, it is not totally free from mechanical gremlins, but by now any recalls will have been addressed and dealers, as well as independent specialists, are familar with the issues that might afflict them.
For more peace of mind, the Mini Hatch ranked fifth out of 19 cars in the small car class in the latest What Car? Reliability Survey, with an impressive overall rating of 97.9%.
Engine: Be wary of Cooper S Minis built between 2014 and 2015: a recall was issued to repair a defective crankshaft bearing and engines were either rebuilt or replaced. Check that the whole engine has been replaced because other parts may have been damaged by the faulty crankshaft.
High oil consumption is common on hotter models so check oil levels and make sure the car is serviced every year.
Exhaust: Ensure the Pro exhaust on the JCW cars is fitted properly. You’ll know it isn’t if the heat shield is rattling underneath the car.
Suspension: Listen out for a knocking noise from the front suspension as the control arm bushings like to make a racket when they’re worn. A new bushing is around £30.
Body: Door seal rubber can rub away the paint on the inside so check for any damage. You can buy door-shut paint protection film to stop the issue from recurring.
Check for clouding in the wing mirrors. New glass is around £20.
