My 2019 SE hit 1 year since it's last oil change in February. Unfortunately, I live 2 hours from the nearest dealer, and they suspended pickups, so I have to waste a full day to get her serviced. I am still in the 3 yr/36K maintenance period. I am about 5K miles from the mileage needed for an oil change, so I had plenty of miles left when I got the service alert. Time is the only issue. The mileage on her has been very light, almost all local driving.

We are going to Florida for a long weekend, and I'm trying to decide whether it is smart to drive her. We drive my husband's car 99% of the time on long trips. (I'm trying to maximize that 80,000 battery warranty and keep miles on the battery instead of the engine.) I know some synthetic oils can last longer than a year. IDK about MINI's synthetic oil, though. If we do drive her, we will definitely check the oil first. My thought/question is this: does it make more sense to take her on this long roadtrip so that if anything else pops up under maintenance, it can be addressed before my maintenance runs out the first of May? I just got a brake fluid notification on my app that is due this month. I have 26,275 miles. Are there any other service intervals that are about to trigger at that mileage?

Thanks in advance!

 

Well, oil doesn't suddenly become useless after a specific period of time...although the acids/soot/etc. in it as a result of it being in the engine will hasten the degradation compared to simply sitting on a shelf in your garage. So, if it were me (well, let's don't go there...if it were me I'd change it myself), I'd run it on the long trip without concern. Mini Synthetic oil is good quality...your engine will be fine. When you get back, have them change it as well as do the brake flush. Have a safe trip!

 

It would be a good idea to start looking for a reliable, closer to home, independent German motors service shop. I'm sure other MINI people in your area can advise. You would be surprised at how many high dollar adjustments need taken care of by the dealership after the maintenance contract expires.

 

Yes! I’ve got a good one I used for my previous Minis. I’m a little concerned about it being a PHEV and how much experience they’ll have with that (or if they’ll be willing) but we’ll see. I haven’t reached out yet with Eevee.

 

My go to guy has done me solids for a long time. The last hardware failure was a broken shifter cable. Luckily the gearbox was locked in 3rd gear so with a bit of clutch and throttle modulating I was able to get it in to him. He had the job done in about 2 hours. The amazing thing is this: He'd never done one before. He didn't use 'the book'. The point is, making the shop a good friend creates long term happiness. In return for all that, I am enthusiastic in recommending him to other MINI people. Hope you can get on likewise.

 

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I cant speak for MINI, but changing the oil in my Lexus Hybrid id no different than any other Toyota.

So, I would think its similar to any other MINI.