FYI I finally found a good mechanic in Montgomery County, Maryland for my 2003 Mini. Check out Rockville Auto Clinic near 355 and Gude Drive. Ask for Jeff. (301) 340-8810. So far, they've done good work and are very friendly and reasonable in their costs.

I had used Montgomery Auto Haus a couple of times, but they were expensive and did some shoddy work. Specifically, they over tightened my oil filter cover and oil pan plug to the point i broke my socket wrench. Worst of all, when I talked to them about it, they didn't seem all that concerned or acknowledge fault.