I got home by MCS last Friday (08/08/08) and have a few newbie questions:

1. What is the best place to get accessories? (license plate frames, key rings, and other doo dads)
2. Do I take the tire protection plan offered by my dealer? Apparently the run-flats are not repairable and they cost a lot to replace.
3. Do I have to wait for the car to break-in before I paint the brake calipers?

Thanks for all the help!

 

The dealer should have some decent accesories along with places like http://outmotoring.com/ Depending on how much the tire replacement plan is, you may want to consider it. Although, if you end up ditching the RFT's, it will be pointless to buy it. It comes down to do you like (or can you live with) the runflats. As far as the calipers, it might be a smart idea to drive the car normally for a little just to heat cycle them. I can't see any harm in doing it either way, honestly. Just make sure to clean off any dust, debris, small children that got picked up along the way. Use brake clean and a wire brush if needed to scuff the surface slightly for a decent adhesion.

 

Not sure about the first, I'd check around the vendor list here on NAM or if you want actual dealer accessories check with Morris Town MINI, they give a discount.

Unless you plan on always running runflats there is no reason to take the protection plan. They are pretty rough and if you do any spirited driving, like track days, you will wear them out pretty quickly.

No reason to wait for break in to paint the calipers, just be prepared to clean a lot of break dust if you do.