I like that the factory antenna has been somewhat shortened for the F56 and the height is fine with me. However, I might eventually replace it with a shorty antenna. I know that the actual mast unscrews. Questions.
1. Why does MINI make you buy both a mast and base? Why not just replace the mast since it is a separate piece?
2. Can you shorten the factory antenna by cutting it? I did this with my 2003 Mustang Cobra.
3. Do pretty much all aftermarket MINI antennas contain base and mast?
4. How do you remove the base? Does it also unscrew?

Thanks!

 

What gave you that idea? The base and mast have always been sold separately in the past, and it also seems to be the case for the F56.

 

http://realoem.com/bmw/partgrp.do?mo...86&hg=65&fg=30

 

Most antennas replace only the screw-in part. Including the MINI Sport Antenna. I picked one up in eBay for $25 and the one from 2nd gen is the same.

 

I have a short sporty antenna on my '09 MCS HT and I'd rather not buy another one if the old one will fit. Since the old base mount looks different from the new one, I asked my MA to try putting an old Gen 2 sport antenna on the new Gen 3 car in his showroom. He told me to bring all of the pieces from my '09 sport antenna because the thinner screw that fits on the '09 didn't fit the '14, BUT the bigger one did. Note: The sport antenna came with a couple of pieces that attach to the base of the antenna; one is smaller/thinner and one is larger/thicker in diameter. I will know for sure tomorrow when I'm at the dealership.

 

My 2nd gen one wouldn't fit my F56 it was too big at the base it was a out motoring brand, it may just be the one I had.

 

Thanks for the input.

RKW, I had assumed it was a set because the photo on MINI-USA shows the mast and base, and there is no notation that you're getting only the mast. But you are correct. I just talked to my MA and you get the mast only.

 

Hi All:

Picked up our F56 MCS HT over the weekend. Took the R56 sport antenna mast (MINI accessory) from our '09 MCS HT and it fit just fine into the new F56 base, but had to use an adapter/fitting (we had 3 different little threaded "nuts" in the original sport antenna box) to get it to work.

HK sound is great...tested the radio, Bluetooth connected iPhone, and the CD/DVD changer.

Hope this helps.

 

I decided to order the MINI USA stubby (4") antenna. Bought it through Prestige MINI in New Jersey to avoid sales tax. I also bought a black stainless steel license plate frame with a checkered pattern on the bottom. Now I just have to wait for my new vanity plate to arrive in about a week (14*MINI).