Hello everyone. I have a 2005 Mini convertible (non S). Just wondering if anyone can give me an estimate of how much to expect to get my top fixed. Making a grinding noise on top between the two front seats. I took off the cover of the motor and saw what looked like a worn down worm screw. I don't know how involved the fix is, and if I should let a non Mini dealer mechanic try to fix it. The closest dealership to me is 90 miles away. :(


Thanks,

Culchie

 

If people knew where you live, they could recommend an indie BMW/MINI shop no problem.

 

I'm in Shenandoah County, Virginia. I hope there's a competent indie close to me.

 

You can try calling some shops on this site. http://www.minirepairshops.com/

 

Thanks for the link !

 

I'm not sure I would take my rag top to the dealer for a top repair once out of warranty, or a regular MINI mech' either

I've owned several rag tops over the years and your average mechanic has NO experience with the top ... they might open the book, but will be winging it from there.

Everyplace I've had a problem (fortunately I never had a problem while under warranty, and you too appear to be out of ...) I found a shop that specializes in convertible top repair .... odds are, if you take it to the dealer, they subcontract to a 'top shop'

 

I'm with the Captain, take it to a shop that does auto tops..

 

Thanks. It makes sense. I did a search, and one of those auto top shops is almost as far away as the closest dealership. :(

 

I'd check warranty of dealer vs. indy top shop, can be a big deal in the scheme of things.

 

Now that I look, given where you live, this does not surprise me ... I'd say try to dig a lil deeper but you may not get a better solution.

When I gave my son my 02 in 07 to take to school ... I did not consider the lack of MINI savvy mechanics (or top shops in this case) in his area and we could not get work done without bringing the car back nearly 200 miles. MINI is not quite AS rare today, but there are still issues to be sure.

90 minutes is better that 2.5 hours anyway ......