Awesome, thanks. I used it two changes ago. I'm running Royal Purple 5w-30 at the moment.

 

Easiest oil/filter changing car I ever had by far, unlike the 'S', justa-Cooper's don't need to move coolant tank for access.

I came here (and Mini2) looking for information on the latest BMW/MINI Longlife Oil. Dealer (Ft Myers) said BMW/MINI changed supplier from Castrol to Pennzoil, retail cost was $6.82 Quart. See more info here:
http://new.minimania.com/part/NME725...thetic-1-Liter
Was told there was no compatibility issue with mixing (still had one quart of old bottle).

Now it's Liter Bottles and old 4.4 Quarts = 4.16 Liter, see link above.

Yes, the specification calls for 22 ft/lb on the drain plug.

If you don't have or don't want to use a Torque Wrench, this will approximate proper torque setting.

With a NEW Copper Crush Washer (comes with Oil Filter) finger tighten the plug (so the washer is in contact with the pan) then further tighten the plug exactly 3/4 turn. This checked out over several oil changes using a Torque Wrench and would over-tighten with a used copper washer.
Art

 

Firstly my apologies if this question has been asked.
I spoke with a Mini mechanic and he mentioned that it is imperative that we only use the Mini brand filters. Most other filters do not do the job correctly. "wrong fitment"
Any thoughts on this? Anyone have long term success using a different brand filter on an R57?
Thanks in advance

 

Since it's actually a Peugeot engine, the French oem brand (purflux) would be the only other safe alternative to the MINI brand (which is actually just a purflux filter packaged by MINI). Much as I am a fan of MANN and MAHLE filters (I've used them on my Volkswagens with no problems), they don't seem to be designed the same as the purflux.
http://www.purflux.com/en/products/oil-filters.html

 

Total and absolute nonsense! Remember, MINI buys the filters it uses from a filter maker, probably from more than one, they don't make them . The filter makers sell the same product to any OEM who asks.

Stick with a name brand, quality version (maybe even top of the line) , correct "fitment" and you will be fine.

 

Filters sold by MINI in the US for R56 are Purflux filters.

 

MINI Oil Filter kit comes with that 'Copper Crush Washer' that should be used with an Oil Change, also has a New 'O' Ring for the Filter Canister.

Don't know if other brands of filters would include those...
Art

 

Is it absolutely necessary to use a new crush washer? Are there any alternatives to the copper crush washer if it is necessary to use some sort of replacement gasket?

 

You can typically flip your old washer over and use it a second time. Who knows, you might be able to keep doing that 4,6 or 8 times!

 

I've used neoprene washers before. I'm sure Mini has a good reason to do everything they do, like having a copper crush washer! lol. If you were under warranty, you might want to stay with the copper just in case. Buy a dozen just to have on hand?