So anything I need to know about before following the standard R56 instructions posted on this board. Same amount of oil (4.5quarts IIRC)?

 

I read that the MINIs need a special type of oil that protects the magnesium in its engine block. I didn't realise this, and put Castrol Edge in, so I'm going to put the OEM oil back in at my next change....

 

I don't know where you heard that, but it sounds like nonsense to me. I've run Mobil 1 in all my vehicles since 1982 and had great longevity and performance out of all my engines.

BTW, some of the DIY instructions indicate a Torx wrench for the oil drain plug. On my 2009 it's an 8mm hex key.

Changing the filter is messy - even when you let the oil drain back into the pan after cracking the seal to vent the housing. I wish MINI had used a standard spin on type filter (like a Fram PH8A) mounted straight up and down and accessible from the bottom.

Tom S

 

Amen re: oil filter. It would be so much more efficient, in my opinion, with a spin on filter.

 

I agree. I read it here.

 

The oil filter on my bimmers have much cleaner access. MINI messed up. or should I say Peugeot messed up.

 

The OEM MINI oil here in australia is 5w30. Is it the same for you guys?

Cos I'm unsure as to whether 0w30 is the best viscosity for my car, as is recommended by you guys

 

I'm using what the sticker under the hood, right on the engine, recommends - and that's 5W30.

Tom S