Have you ever taken advantage of the free towing through Roadside Assistance? How was it is? Did MINI call a reputable towing service or did they settle for the cheapest one around?

My MCS needs repair under warranty, but the nearest dealership is 2.5 hours away. The SA said MINI would tow my car to and fro for free since it's still under warranty.

I'm worried though. My MCS is lowered and I'm not comfortable just handing it over to some tow truck driver. Also, I'm not comfortable handing over my key, but they'd need it over at the dealership. Not mention the many things that could go wrong the during the journey.

 

A friend of mine had his car towed through the mini roadside assistance, they called a flatbed and took it straight to the dealership. Seemed trustworthy enough.

 

Been there, done that.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/53074154@N00/6324471442/
Even though my car isn't lowered, plenty of clearance.

 

Yep, just about a month ago. I was a little leary at first about the Tow Truck Driver, but once he came up to the house let me know what he was going to do, asked me where my Tow Hook was, I showed him, he very carefully installed it on Molly and since she was still drivable started her up, backed her out of the driveway and onto the pavement where he proceeded to use the Tow Hook to wench her up onto the Flatbed.
I took 17pics. of this....man was I a wreck!!



BTW...the Tow Truck Driver gave me one of his cards, this Tow Co. also tows High End Vehicles, so although I can understand your concerns, at this point, what choice do you have??

 

Is the car drivable? I'm assuming if they are offering to tow, then it's not. Either way, it's a good gesture, and I'd take them up on it. It's probably less likely for something to happen to the car on the top of the flatbed, than driving it there. Yes the car is lowered, but there is very little overhang on the MINI, so there are plenty of stock height cars that would do worse on the tow truck ramp. Best of luck to you, and let us know how it goes.

 

When my 2007 MCSm had to go to Chicago for work, the tow truck driver had never heard of an "air dam," but was careful not to wreck it when I pointed it out. When he wrapped chains around suspension parts, he cinched down so hard that you could see where the bolt heads had skidded, exposing original paint.

 

I'm gonna faint!

Do we not have tie down points on our cars? Why did the tow guy have to go Harry Houdini on your baby?

Thanks to those who posted photos. It helps me visualize the ordeal.