Hi everyone,
I'm new to the website and looking for advice! I bought my first car 4 weeks ago, a 07 mini one 1.4. I got it from a local garage which had imported it from the north. The reg was changed, it was serviced and NCT just before I paid for it. Three weeks later and I notice that the car wouldn't start. I had to push the start button a few times to get it going which I thought was strange. A few days later I start the car and hear a loud rattling from the engine (which I now know was the death rattle), I attempted to drive down the road when the engine light came on and the car lost power and conked 3/4 times in a few minutes before I drove it straight back home. i contacted the garage and they collected it two days later insisting that the problem was a sensor. Didn't hear anything for four days and then went to the garage to see what was happening, ended up finding the car in the mechanics beside the garage where I was told the problem was with the timing belt and it was being changed which would take at least a week. I was then meant to collect the car on Friday but the mechanic was sick and hadn't finished it; was told it would be ready Saturday. Went to collect it Saturday and he said the timing belt was done but he noticed that the water pump was leaking and had to order a part for that so it now won't be ready until next week.
At this stage I am convinced that I was sold a car that isn't fit for purpose. I intend on getting it checked by a mini specialist when I get it back and while its under guarantee. If anyone has any advice I would be so grateful. Thanks!