I'm Interested in finding out about Mini runs and good mechanics as my warranty is soon running out and I'm debating if it's worth it to buy the extended warranty or find a good mechanic. Any opinions?

 

A relationship with a good mechanic/shop can last multiple cars....
and often independent shops cost less per hour...
an example is my "local" mini cetric shop charges about $90 and hour...dealers charge 140-160$+...so big savings...just in labour, IF THEY ARE COMPETENT and HONEST.
Then beyond that, if they CATCH STUFF BEFORE it breaks through good preventive MX, LIFE IS GOOD!!
I always figured that the Insurance/warranty company is making $$ on selling the policy, the seller is making a commission, then administration costs, advertising costs.......so maybe 70% gets spent on the car, 40% on other STUFF.
So I self insure, IMO if you cannot fix a sudden $1000 item or plan for a $2000+ item in a couple months, you cannot afford the car.......remember policies insure against mechanical failure, and some DO include SOME $$$ toward "fixes" but many big $$ items are wear and tear..if they include ANY of this, you are just PRE-PAYING repair costs. Every policy/plan is different...
So how lucky do you feel?!
Generally IMO folks who have "skin in the game" take better care of their cars...and they last longer, and have a better ownership experance! Folks who say the warrenty company will fix it....well...they ignore issues, and just expect it to be fixed when it "won't go anymore"....so the companies selling these plans must account for this...

 

I didn't extend the warranty. I go to LTMW in El Monte, CA. My friend owns the shop and they do nothing but amazing work on euros. You won't be disappointed. I already sent a few over there and they can attest to their work as well. I'm close by too, like 5 mins away so if you stop by, pm me and I'd meet you there.