I thought as it's winter and the minis still off the road I would try and find a cheap run about. After hours of trawling the internet, I went to view a MK1 1997 Renault Clio 1.2 "biarritz" edition. Totally original with just under 54k on the clock, full mot and 6 months tax. After a bit of bartering I got it for £440 insured it on my laptop and drove it home.
As always with buying a second hand car, you get problems free with it.
One of these problems was it reluctant to start occasionally, this was thought to be the aftermarket alarm that was fitted by a previous owner. After ripping half the dashboard apart and removing the well fitted alarm system, the problem was still there! but now would not fire at all after a day or 2.
I then found out that the crank sensor plug connections were dodgy, after nipping them up and re fitting, it was fixed and has been great ever since.
Then.....
this happened at 50 mph
Replaced the tyre and all was good. Bought some upgraded headlamp bulbs as the others were as good as a tea light candle
right xenon, left original.
I decided to spend some money on making it more reliable so I have recently replaced the oil, oil filter, air filter, spark plugs and front discs and pads, it now runs much smoother, is more nippy and stops well now the new brakes are bedded in!
Took the wheel trims off so keeping my eyes open for some 13" alloy wheels for it.
Also, the mini can progress better now as I can get around!!
Dan
p.s and a new battery!
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