Hi: Being the new owner of a 2005 Mini Cooper with 32,00 miles on it, I was wondering when it is necessary to change the shocks/tires...and what brand/type for the best ride...current shocks are the original that came with the car.. I feel all the little bumps in the road...I have no comparison ( from other lighter cars) except for my heavier 97' 5 series BMW the Mini replaces....Joe C.

 

Well, for the street, Koni FSDs with the stock springs (my current setup) will be better compsed through the rough patchs and such. i also have Ireland fixed camber plates for the front. The plates utilize a beefier bushing and platem, which helps as the mini has only 2 inches of effective travel up front. Don't get me wrong, the Koni's still provide a firm ride; they are not 'crashy jarring' like the stock sport plus setup. and you should still avoid potholes.

As for the service interval, the Bentley service manual says not to even test the struts for replacement until after 50k miles. NOT. On my MCS, I notice the ride worsening at about 45k or so. In hindsight, I should have switched out the struts sooner. Tires should be self-evident. Any tread left? Can you see the top Washington's head when you place a nickel in a groove?

 

Nope. Mainly because Jefferson is on the nickel.

 

lol. whoops I was thinking quarter and wrote nickel.

 

Heyduard...thanks for the advise...I will check shocks at 45-50,00 miles as you suggest..As for the tires, I am replacing the rear set(that was the front set, moved to the rear)..Front set has little wear....made in 07"...relatively new..Joe C.