# Mini Cooper **URL:** \ **Category:** Maintenance/Repairs\ **Created:** [June 17, 2008, 4:13am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mini-cooper/15459 "2008-06-17T04:13:30Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 3\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![R.Rush](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/r/e99b99/32.png) [@R.Rush](https://community.cartalk.com/u/R.Rush)\ **Post date:** [June 17, 2008, 4:13am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mini-cooper/15459/1 "2008-06-17T04:13:30Z")
Can the new mini cooper’s suspension or seats be modified to soften the ride for a woman with a bad back? ---
**Author:** ![andrew\_j](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/a/91b2a8/32.png) [@andrew\_j](https://community.cartalk.com/u/andrew_j)\ **Post date:** [June 17, 2008, 10:49am UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mini-cooper/15459/2 "2008-06-17T10:49:27Z")
The ride is harsh due to suspension settings. Small (really small cars) ALWAYS have a harsher ride especially those with a short wheelbase. I would suggest moving up to a compact car or larger for a better ride. ---
**Author:** ![Dave\_G](https://sea1.discourse-cdn.com/cartalk/user_avatar/community.cartalk.com/dave_g/32/768_2.png) [@Dave\_G](https://community.cartalk.com/u/Dave_G)\ **Post date:** [June 17, 2008, 3:09pm UTC](https://community.cartalk.com/t/mini-cooper/15459/3 "2008-06-17T15:09:29Z")
I agree with Andrew, although it also depends on which model you have. The S model has a firmer suspension and shorter profile tires than the standard model resulting in a stiffer ride vs the standard Mini. If you have an S model trade it in for a standard model or upgrade to a larger car. This is why taking a TEST DRIVE is important before you purchase a car.