2 questions for seasoned Mini owners!
 

I have 2 questions for those of you that "know your stuff". I am awaiting a 2009 JCW Hardtop (I can't freakin' wait!!:thumbsup: ) and I was wondering how many miles I should drive to break the engine in before I get on it. In addition, I have heard that you should let your car idle for a few seconds prior to shutting it off to let the turbo spin down while still having oil pressure to lubricate it. It sounds like it makes sens, but didn't know if there something that maintained oil pressure for that purpose after the engine is shut off. If anyone has the answers to the 2 questions, I would really appreciate the help!:confused:

The break in period is a very controversial topic, some say you are suppose to drive the car hard to let everything set and seal etc, and some say the exact opposite.

Verbatim from page 84 of the manual:

Break-in period
Moving parts need breaking-in time to adjust to
each other. Please follow the instructions below
in order to achieve the optimal service life and
economy of operation for your vehicle.

Engine and differential
Always obey all official speed limits.

Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do
not exceed the following:
" Gasoline engine
4500 rpm or 100 mph/160 km/h
Avoid full-throttle operation and use of the
transmission's kick-down mode.
After driving 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually
increased.

Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full traction
potential until after an initial break-in
period. Therefore, drive cautiously during the
first 200 miles/300 km.

Brake system
Brakes require an initial break-in period of
approx. 300 miles/500 kmto achieve optimized
contact and wear patterns between brake pads
and rotors. Drive cautiously during this break-in
period.

Clutch
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal
level only after a distance driven of approx.
300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period,
engage the clutch gently.

Ryephile method=

Here's how you break-in your R56 for excellent ring and bearing seating:
1. Start engine and let warm up for 2 minutes
2. Pull out of showroom, turn onto street, and FLOOR IT all the way to redline
3. Engine brake from redline all the way back down to about 1500 RPM
4. Accelerate lightly to cruising speed, then engine brake lightly.
5. Stop at red light.
6. Repeat 2-5 several times for 10 miles, then be less aggressive for the next 10 miles.
7. Odometer = 20 miles. Viola, your engine is about 90% broken-in.
8. Go home and change oil and filter with OEM stuff [or OEM filter and your fave full-syn oil]
9. For the next 200 miles, be nice to the clutch and brakes as they're still bedding-in.
10. Drive it to enjoy it!