In looking around at the variety of things one can add to a Mini, I've read a bit about how the strut towers can 'mushroom' and see that there are products to control this (ie. Craven's Strut Tower Defenders).

My questions is, is this problem restricted to the Gen 1 Mini's, or does this extend to the Gen 2s too. Since I've just gotten my 2010 R56 MC it's obviously not a problem yet, but if the flaw still exists I'd prefer to get something to stay ahead of the problem.

 

Gen 1 MINIs primarily --

I have not heard of any cases of it happening with any Gen 2 cars.

 

I heard on one case happening but I can't recall the specifics. I put a set of M7 plates on my R56. Cheap piece of mind

 

I have not heard of any instances on a 2nd gen, but if you want to kill two birds with one stone, get the M7 Strut Tower Brace. The anti-mushrooming plates are part of the design.

http://www.waymotorworks.com/m7-stru...5-r56-r57.html

 

+1on m7

 

On a related note, will the addition of a product like the M7 STB have any effect on the warranty status of the car? I'd hate to have a little peace of mind for something that may or may not be a problem but have it invalidate my warranty. I wouldn't think it would be an issue but I'm new to the world of modifying a new car that's still under original warranty.

 

The short answer is no. Read up on the Moss Manson Act--
Here is a good link on this subject to get you started done by K&N filters.

http://www.knfilters.com/warrantyletter.htm