I bought my 06 Mini new at Bob Smith. They were useful for the free scheduled maintenance and warranty work, and I LOVED the lifetime free loaner deal.

But, I'd never use them after the goodies have expired:

Instead, I highly recommend Marc Norris at Bavarian Workshop in Canoga Park:

http://www.bavarianworkshop.com/

and

Danny Darwichian at Minicorsa in NoHo:

http://www.minicorsa.com/

I know and trust both of these shops and count the owners as friends.

That said, somethings cannot be fixed and replacement is the only option.

The Mini is more durable than its reputation but all cars need care and every part wears out eventually.

Good luck!