Greetings and Salutations!

I have had my MINI for 6 or so years now, followed this forum here and there over the years but have recently decided to join since I have been experiencing problems with her (mostly due to aging I'm guessing, she's getting older). I am looking to try to do my own maintenance other than brakes and oil changes to see if I can save money, or just get sent in the right direction for things I can't fix myself.

Thanks everyone!

 

Welcome to NAM.

Ask your questions and we should be able to point you in the correct direction. Any pictures?

 

And just be warned, when you start working on a MINI what was your prized beauty very quickly becomes the biggest bit_h in the world. There might be a few other choice words that come up as well.

 

welcome ... and what Whine not Walnuts said ... it gets that way on most any car !

 

I am having issues with my a/c. should I post the question here or is there somewhere else I should post it? also. since I am not sure what the issue is yet, no pictures

 

Hi and welcome to the NAM experience!
The pages here can help you do work on your Mini, that you may not know how to do!
The best Mini resource out here on the web!

 

Welcome.

An '04 ... Yea, I know a little about them. Age can creep up on them, that is for sure. For AC issues, a good Indy shop should be able to do a leak-down test for you. Chances are it is time for a few new seals and a new charge of refrigerant. AC work is one a few things I don't do myself, simply because I don't have the specialty equipment, so I count on my Indy shop to sort it out.

Best of luck.

Motor On!

 

If the AC is not working due to low 134a, then your should replace the dryer tank and flush the condenser, so when you charge it again it should work for a long time. If the hoses are soft, replace them also!
Make sure the system is vacuumed down for at least an hour or so. (we were taught 4 hours, but that is over kill)
If you own it, your AC should work well!

 

Hey everyone! thanks for the responses. took it to a shop to have it looked at, the compressor is out. $800 total to replace, flush the system, labor, etc. :( looks like I won't be driving her until the fall.

 

Usually the electric clutch on the ac compressor dies in our Minis.
A Indie shop usually can do this for less money than the dealer.

 

Yes, it just wears down or does not engage. I have to do mine to my R52 here soon. almost 300K and its finally done. I only used it a couple times a year as i have a convertible.