This. I'm coming up on my 25000 mile ("in between") one, which will be done by the local independent MINI mechanic.

 

Yep. Did mine in between free changes on the R52 and my R58.

 

Are you sure about that? I don't drive much and when I asked the dealer they said I get three free oil changes total during the 3 years. And it has to be after 1 year or 10k miles later (or computer based). This means if I get my second free oil change near end of the 3 year, I'll miss my 3rd free oil change. This also means if you drive a lot (10k miles in 6 months) then you have to pay for the every other oil change. Maybe someone can confirm or correct me whether this is true or not.

I got my first oil change around 5000 miles on the 1st year. 2nd year is coming in two months and I only have 7000 miles right now. I'll probably get the oil changed and the wipers since it's free and I don't want to be missing my third oil change.

 

The dealer gave you canned response. Because there is no way to answer the question as everyone's driving habits change the outcome. 1 year 10 k is the high limit

The interval is 1 year or 10k miles >>>> based on the CBS calculation and then add which ever comes first. The CBS calculation is usually much less then 10k.

If you drive vey little and will never surpass the miles part of this then yes you will only get 3 oil changes. ( btw. Go in just before your 3 years is up you won't miss out as there is also a 60 day window.

The dealer fibbed when saying "you get three". Once again that is only a estimate as to how many you get based on the 1 year 10 k statement.

In 2000 ish miles I will be getting my second oil service under maint and the car will only be approx 14 months old. Maybe 15.

 

Oil change are ONCE a year or 10K. Mini don't need to be serviced more because they use performance synthetic oil.

In the meantime, If you go to flush at an independent shop or do it yourself, you are in trouble with no track record.

This is very easy to understand.

From new, my 1st oil change has been at 8K because it was close to the first year of ownership. The 2nd oil change, at 18K was last May.

My Coupe is now 23K and I expect my next oil change at the beginning of next year.

I drive all day long in severe conditions and I never had to top up.

I rely on the OEM recommendations when I buy a new car and it has never been wrong.

 

in trouble with who?

 

The MINI police!

Or, just keep your receipts, show that you used approved oil and filters and relax cause you've committed no crimes against MINI.

 

I believe that changing oil more frequently is cheap insurance for these high tech engines.
I do once a year or every 5000 kms.