Took my wife's Mini in for what i thought was going to be the last covered under the plan.
Well the car was a 1000 miles over so it was going to be out of pocket.

The SW tells me it needs an oil change,air filter change and rear brakes.
After the SW told me the air filter was going to be $90 and the rear brakes $550,I just about had a stroke!

I had them change the oil since I was there already.

I ended up ordering an air filter,oil filter(for next time DYI)and a cabin filter from Pelican.
Was very easy to change the filters.

The brakes can last a little longer which I will do myself.

 

.. and then? ..

 

And you were surprised by the cost why? Dealers have to make money in the service department, (they sure don't cover the nut selling cars...lol)

Not for nothing, but you had plenty of warning to get the car in for service before the maintenance plan expired...

 

You don't say what area you are from so here's the shotgun approach. A list of nearly every independent repair shops in the country is listed if you follow this link: http://soopercooperinfo.com/
If there are several in your area find a MINI club and get their advice. Mine charges a little less that your last oil/filter but he also gives things a good looking over and never lets it loose without a test drive.

 

I knew would cost but $75 labor for a 10 minute job replacing an air filter?

And yes I should have brought it sooner but this is when the SW pre-scheduled the appt.Figured they might give a little on the mileage.

 

1000 miles over.....
And you thought they would cover it?! What planet are you on?
Yes... New car dealer prices are high....never seen one that wasn't +50% more than an independent shop.......

 

Give a little on the mileage? You were 1000 miles over, not 100 ..

.. even if your appointment was pre-scheduled, it's your job to know when something needs to be done with your car .. and for 1000 miles .. surely you weren't clueless ..

I suggest finding a local mechanic like others have mentioned. Otherwise, take care of your car ..