Hi Conor,

The 2005 Cooper 1.6 has a timing chain, not a belt, which means that theoretically it doesn't need replacing, but it will need regular checks of its tension and adjustment. There have been some reported issues of the chain tensioner breaking, leading to disastrous engine damage, but a car that has a full service history (preferably from a MINI main dealer) should be OK. Just make sure that it's checked at every service.