I called MoS a while ago - maybe 5 days before I was about to hit the Inspection interval (c. 28K miles) to schedule an appointment. Naive me, waiting that long.

They could not get me in until the 26th, pushing me about 600 miles OVER the interval. Well, I figured I could live with that, even though I'm not terribly happy about keeping oil interval that long.

Today I got a call from Larry saying that they were cancelling all service appointments because they had FOUR techs out (ill, or gone, I couldn't tell). My "April 26" appointment is now MAY 10.

What kind of bull**** is this? Maybe I'm spoiled as my other vehicle is a Ford and I can simply come in whenever I like and get service. I asked - half joking - if Mini would reimburse me for the oil change I'll now have to do. He said no, it would still be "fine" - even after I told him I put 70 miles a day on the car.



This sucks. I am pissed off. And I wanted to vent.

Dave
Manassas
'04 MCS EB/W

 

Is this just an oil service or inspection? Changing the oil yourself is easy... in fact I can't imagine actually paying a dealer to do it. Detailed instructions are on www.motoringfile.com
Mike

 

You also have a lot of Ford dealerships in your area - the unfortunately realty is that there are only three MINI dealerships - MOS is one of the better ones - you can get your state inspection at any inspection station and deal with the oil change over the interveral at MOS. They won't penalize you.

 

I called Towson yesterday to get my car looked at for a thumping noise and Michael's car his first oil change inspection, they fit me in next week. If you don't mind the travel, you might want to try them.

Sterling has done a lot to improve their service department. I have not heard any complaints like this for a long time.

 

It's not a solution, but it's a work-around and may ease your pain. Call the service manager, and complain. If he doesn't make you feel good, go higher.

Also, lay down the law that you want to see the removed oil, to ensure that nothing went wrong from having it in too long (synthetic, so it 'should' be okay)... You can also request for them to flush and clean the system as well, because you're worried about it. They should do it depending on how much grief you give them.

And though it's not a good answer, remember your warantee... If something goes wrong with the engine, you now have a finger to point at Sterling.

 

Service intervals are just suggestions - not hard and fast rules. If you want to change the oil on their dime - wait the time.

You don't seem to be of the 2,500 or 5,000 mile oil change school. - so I'm not understanding your problem. Everything will be documented in your service record. If you're really concerned - spring for an oil change

 

My only opposition to that is that scheduled maintenance is included with your purchase of a Mini. The meter they put in the car should determine when it gets serviced... Understandably there may be delays as they attempt to accomodate, but they should do their best to ensure you're seen in a timely manner, and a 2+ week delay doesn't seem adequate imho.

 

I have had an appointment scheduled for next Tuesday for about 3 weeks now and I have not received a call telling me they were having problems. I hope they don't try to reschedule me. This is my last free one.

 

i had a little trouble getting a quick appt, but dave was very helpful after i got in for my appt. i came back the same day unexpectedly because of a suspected coolant problem and he took the car immediately.

i say just suck it up for this one time and hopefully it will get better

 

I go in tomorrow for my coolant issue. never been in for service before (wheel swap does not realy count) so I am looking forward to meeting Dave. The first guy I talked to two weeks ago said this was an emergency apt - but tomorrow (4/27) was the first apt. they could get me in for. been checking the levels now everyday. If anyone is at MoS tomorrow am, look for me and say hi! (i have bright red hair)