What happened to the Penske Parts link???

 

This still works for me:

http://www.penskeparts.com/fiche.aspx?brand=mini

 

Thanks for the address...I was interested to know why the icon was removed from the forums?

 

It wasn't removed.

They are doing market research exposure in another MINI/BMW forum.

Mean time, just bookmark their site into your favorites

 

Great link.

RealOEM site would never accept my car not sure why.

Why is it an oil pan gasket is $60 there and $15 at rock auto?

 

Penske Parts and RealOEM are fantastic references for looking up all your parts identification (i.e. diagrams) and numbers. The prices quoted are most likely at the dealership. You can certainly find what you are looking for cheaper elsewhere.

 

Probably the Rock Auto one ( made in China? ) is not an OEM part manufactured under strict guidelines to provide longevity and optimum performance.

Considering the amount of time it takes to just get to the oil pan to replace this gasket, why would anyone go cheap on this part is beyond my comprehension.....

Gaskets are no different than tire tread compounds.....and if you have ever driven on "cheap" tires, then you know what I am speaking of.....

When it comes to repair or replacement parts for these cars especially with respect to those which have cosiderable labor hours/charges, I prefer to have all options on the table. And there is nothing wrong with aftermarket parts, as long as one is willing to accept the pitfalls of non-OEM parts ( here is one recent example.... )

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-me-crazy.html

Then caveat emptor .

I like the fact that Penske parts have an over the counter 2 yr warranty replacement no matter who installs them.....and if you are fastidious about your MINI repairs it is the usual solution.

 

Plus the parts arrive from Penske almost as soon as you hit the "submit order" button.

 

I ordered several parts this yr and had good luck with all the vendors. Penske Parts at the top of the list.