I have a 2003 Mini Cooper S with 57,000+ miles on it.

I'm overdue for a scheduled $300 oil maintenance visit. I'm getting ready to book the appointment but the question I have is - how is this different than the standard $90 oil change?

I do have an extended warranty and want to get "required maintenance" - when I can afford it.

Is this something I can do for less with my regular mechanic or should I just bite the bullet and go to the dealership?

Thanks,
Rob C

 

at 57K it's time for the belt too. If you post what area you live in I'm sure a NAM member will be able to give you a lead on a good local tech that charges less than the dealer.

 

change them yourself and youll save everything but parts, oil is real easy belt isnt all that bad, im sure u could do it. hahaha

 

I'm in Nashville so there's a MC dealer here. I have a good mechanic, although he's not specifically a MC mechanic.

What I need to know is how is the $300 oil maintenance change different from the standard $90 dealer oil change?

Also, are we talking about the timing belt needing to be changed?

- rob c

 

Hi Rob, I guess we should have addressed this early. An oil change should be about $90 at most shops using good parts and the right oil. Not Sure what is covered with the "$300 oil maintenance" you listed. While I have heard of some dealers charging that much for oil changes it also include air filter, cabin filter and other tests/checks.

Your MINI has a Timing Chain and the belt we have been talking about is the serpentine belt that runs off the crank pulley and runs the rest of the motor. If it breaks at speed bad things can happen.

At 57K here's what I'd do

Oil change, order an OEM/BMW oil filter kit on line.
S-belt, Local NAPA store will have the belt or get it for you.
cabin filter, search NAM for good deals on that part.
Plugs and wires might need changing
Air filter for motor.
Check all the other fluids
Rotate tires and be sure to inspect pads, inside pads often wear faster then outside. If on OEM pads and rotors you are near the end and will need replacing soon.
If you see odd tire wear check the front lower control arms rear bushing, must are toast by 75K replace when needed.

feel free to call me at 312-388-4263 or email info@autoxcooper.com with any other questions or if you need parts. Dustin

 

Thanks Dustin. I'll take my Mini in for an oil change and discuss this info. Since I'm not mechanically inclined, I'll more than likely look at options other than the MC dealer for maintenance.

I know they wanted $800+ to replace brakes and my mechanic did it for a little over $400.

- rob c