2008 Mini 1.6 - bad move?

[oldmanbm]

Well to cut a long story short my Secretary decided to sell her beloved 2008 Mini One 1.6 with just over 100,000 miles on it. It's like new with lots of MOT etc . The car has been very reliable and there's not a mark on it. Problem is I think it needs the timing chain and guide done as the engine isn't as smooth as it could be. My long-suffering wife will need something cheap and cheerful to take her 3 miles to work in September and i thought that the Mini might fit the bill (otherwise a Volvo XC90 that hates short trips). Is it worth a punt at a humble offer and then get a trusted Mini independent (one locally) to do the chain? What's a ball park figure for this common problem? Other option is to continue to run it as it is for another 1500 - 2000 miles for the year?

[steve-5snwi]

Whats the service history like ? Chains will normally stretch if its run low on oil or its not changed regularly. I would guess to change the chain properly it would be around £600 with quality parts

[oldmanbm]

Has been serviced regularly and was originally a dealer demo. Indy looking at £270+ parts so not too bad.

[oldmanbm]

Can anyone tell me if it's worth a quick trip to the tuners to get a few more power in my 2008 Mini Cooper ? Local guy promising great things for £240! Well respected and very careful - did our old 1.9 Tdi Golf years ago and no probems>.

[steve-5snwi]

Nope

[oldmanbm]

Okay will leave the tuning alone - must say really enjoying the kart-like handling and easy parking! My spare key although it can still be used for opening and closing the doors/boot it will not start the cat when in situ. Can I re programme it from the other one or is there another solution?