2003 Cooper Clutch? Prices etc

[Olly RM]

Well, a little over a week of ownership later, 350 miles and it would seem the clutch may be on its way out. I've no idea what life the car has lead prior to me buying it but I fear a bill looming.

Em' has been driving the mini to the shops etc and lo few it, but I took it for a run this afternoon and noticed the clutch would slip if there was light (as in toe weight) pressure on the clutch peddle. So now the car is located in Stirling, would anyone recommend anywhere? Also any ideas on what sort of price to expect? I've seen a 'blow by blow' walkthrough and I think it's beyond the ability of the work space I have available.

Any help much appreciated.

I also had the 'window not working' issue this morning, wonderfully fixed with a love tap of the door. I hope it's not a nail.

[cknotty]

It does sound like a worn clutch. To confirm if the friction plate needs replacing, you can accelerate from a low speed in a high gear (say, 20mph in 4th or 5th); if the revs shoot up without much of an increase in speed, it will need replacing.

Had a look on Euro Car Parts; they list a Cooper cluch kit at £116.40 which isn't too bad. Most of the cost in replacing will be labour: I was thinking around the £4/500+ mark in total...

[Olly RM]

I tried the accelerate in high gears and I can report, it doesn't slip or rev. So I am hoping that as it a hydraulic clutch it may just be a bit 'good' (fingers crossed here!) Also, the clutch is still biting at half peddle, so it is engaging early, just a bit worried it is on its way out. Having watched a few videos on the clutch change process, I see where the money goes!

Thanks for your help mate

[DeerDodger]

Hi Olly,

Sounds like it's fine now, but if it does go, I recently got a quote for my wife's Cooper of about £400 supplied and fitted by Smart Fit in Borrowmeadow Road, Springkerse. We've had quite a few bits and pieces done there and they've been great.

[JABB]

£200 with Mini Gearboxes in Coventry.
They also do a recon swapped gearbox for £500 or clutch and gearbox for £600 fitted.
They claim to be able to do it inside 4 hours.