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I wanted to know your thoughts regarding changing the oil after passing the magical 1200 mile mark for engine break in. Did you change it right after 1200 miles or did you go by the service interval monitor on the car? Finally, I'm guessing 5w-30 synthetic for our climate, and what should I expect to pay at the dealer?
There's quite abit of discussion/debates/arguments regarding this issue on NAM. Feel free to search through them to go into detail. However, if you're like me and find NAM's search function unhelpful, here's the gist of it;
1. It's up to you if you feel like changing it. Some swear by it. I believe a few NAM members had sent the oil in for an analysis and found it to be really dirty. While others say it still looks amber.
2. You're right on the oil type.
3. Personally I did it at 1,204 miles(could not stop in the middle of the road when it turned 1,200 :P). Mine looked absolutely dark(which some argue means nothing). However, I ran the oil between my hands and found quite a bit of residue.
4. I would strongly suggest changing your own oil. Both the 1st and 2nd gen is engineering beautifully for oil changes. Everything is easily accessible. If DIY, cost is about $45(which includes 5 quarts plus oil filter). If done at a dealer, it will vary from $60 to $90 depending on dealer/location.
Many from the 1st gen claim that following the on board computer's oil change interval has not harmed their Mini(going strong above 100k miles). Personally, I change my oil when I rotate tires(every 5000 miles). BUT! That's a personal choice and should not sway you one way or another.
I am most likely going to change it after break-in. If anything it will help me sleep better at night. I will most likely buy the oil and filter from Detroit Tuned, or keep my eyes open for a sale on 5w-30 synthetic. Unfortunately, I do not have a garage, or I would attempt to do it myself.
