Looked at a jcw r53 with a few issues

[cejsmith]

Went to see a r53 cooper s jcw at a dealers, the car seemed OK apart for the fact the dip stick end was missing and it had what sounded like a couple of pints of water sloshing around under the dash. What's the down side of both problems and how much to sort?

[helix402]

The end of the dipstick will probably be in the sump. Up to you if this concerns you.

[cejsmith]

helix402 said:

The end of the dipstick will probably be in the sump. Up to you if this concerns you.

It would only concern me if it have the chance to damage the engine, if it just lays in the sump it's not a problem!!!

[mikeyr]

Dipsticks have reputation for breaking so I'd ask garage to clear it out and pop a replacement one in, especially as there is no internal oil level gauge. There is a reinforced one available (I considered buying it as a preventative measure but apparently they under/over read - can't remember which).

Seem to remember the water noise being commonly mentioned on various forums and either aircon or air in coolant system related.

[Catchme]

The 'sloshing' sounds like coolant level; is it topped up? Could be the water pump leaking (you should see leaks on the ground towards the front left of the car as you stand in front of it). A leaky thermostat could also cause the issue (does the housing have any crusty deposits?). Leaky thermostats usually drop the water towards the right rear of the engine). Other than that, hoses, clips, etc.

Have you checked the carpet under the passenger dash re the heater matrix/hoses?