I have an appt to take my '04 MC into Global Imports (2 hours away from home) tomorrow for my 100,000 service and understandably my wallet is hyperventilating at the estimate.

Inspection 2- $484
Spark plug service -186
Fuel injector flush - 149
Brake fluid service - 100

Dropping 2 weeks pay on my MC is not the issue; if it keeps me on the road and trouble free, its worth it. Charging me $186 to change out of a set of $40 plugs and not even changing the wires (because it has coil packs, service advisor Brandon says its not necessary) is robbery!

So... I'd have to go to Atlanta to get parts or order online... and I'm due an oil change. I've already decided I can change my own plugs, no biggy. But should I go ahead and let them do the inspection 2 since it includes changing the v-belt or just do an oil change and order the belt & filters? Is the fuel injector flush worth it or are they just pouring a $15 bottle of fuel injector cleaner in for $149? And is the brake fluid service necessary?

Sorry for such a long post, but I'd appreciate any input. And if anyone knows of a MC mechanic in Chattanooga that would be great to know.

 

I'd recommend you do your own plugs and wires, belt, and oil change. These things are easy enough and you'd save a ton by not paying labor. Not sure on what tool you'd need for a belt change on a MC. The S has a special tool.

You should know to use anti-seize and torque the plugs on a cold head. 18ftlbs, I think.

For coolant and brake fluid, I'd take it somewhere. I hate dealing with coolant, and I don't own a brake bleeder. It is worth it for me to just have those things done. Coolant should be replaced every 3 years maybe, and brake fluid should be done every 2.

The fuel injector service offered by the dealer, I assume, would entail removal of the injectors and cleaning them on some kind of rig. This would be worlds better than any fuel additive out there.

The rest of the 100k inspection would probably be, fuel filter, grease door hinges, cabin filter, brake inspection, bushing inspection, strut inspection, etc. It is easy enough to check over the car and look for things that are out of wack or worn. Replacing the fuel filter is simple, there are threads about it here. Greasing the doors could be done in one's sleep, same for the cabin filter.

 

Agree with everything above. If you have a manual transmission changing that fluid would see improvement. If your changing your own sparks and wires pick up a new OEM coil pack too. Maybe $50. Complete tune up then!

 

replacing the fuel filter entails removal of back seat and the filter is in one of the fuel tanks. not very easy---

 

HOLD UP, STOP THE BUS. If your coming to Atlanta for your service you need to come see us. Way Motor Works, we can do that service along with anything else any MINI may need. And we'll do it all cheaper than the dealer, I can beat that price by a couple hundred dollars. That is outragous, We have 2 ex dealer, Factory trained MINI techs on staff, so your MINI will be in Great hands. Give me a call and I can get you in tomorrow.

Way Motor Works
3115 Marjan Drive
Atlanta GA 30340
770.234.9965 or
317.201.8670

 

I changed out my own Fuel filter & pump. Easy just FOLLOW the directions on NAM I did the spark plugs, wires, oil change & air filter/cabin air for $200