I helped my aunt purchase a 2004 base mini wt. an automatic transmission.
the car appears nice. it has 45000 miles. It does seem to delay going into reverse slightly, and in driving it, I would say it surges a slight bit, when reapplying speed, such as after going around a corner, but not in straight line driving ? . I have read, after the purchase, that mini has poor auto transmissions ? What is known, and what can be done by an individual or dealer to improve a possible condition? Is there a recall or warranty on a 2004 car ? just hope we did not buy into a problem, as she is very excited about her car, and wanted a automatic. Other "car" people I know have driven the car, and say it is how they all drive, and it is ok.

 

Had about 5 Mini's since 02 and I would never go back with a CVT tranny until thay perfect it. My 03 Mini with CVT shifted like it was connected with rubber bands. My honey currently has a MCS Cab automatic and its better since it has a regular slushbox but still would rather have that that the CVt's rubberness. It is however the way the CVT drives so you just have to get used to it.

 

+1. I had CVT on my A4 and Mini and will never go back to them. No fun to drive, and not the most dependable.

 

Agreed!! Not the best trans out there... However make sure that the Trans fluid has been changed before. They are supposed to be drained and filled about every 30,000 miles or every inspection. Also you can reset the adaptations of the trans at the dealer. It is used to driving and accelerating to the previous owners habits. If you reset the adaptations, it may help to learn the new driving habits. Good luck.

 

I don't know...never had auto MINI...6spd is much nicer, i tried to stay away from automatics just for those reasons..

 

i bought one for my gf and thats just how the transmission is