I understand that the transmission is "sealed". I just need a few words about the transmission fluid check and how you all go about it.
Mine is a 2005 automatic with little paper work and few records but I'm not disheartened at all. Just need to know a lot more than I thought I did.

 

You have a CVT transmission. Do a search here for "CVT" and you'll find everything you want to know (and probably lots you didn't)!

 

Thanks so much. I'll do a search. Also,,,if you don't mind, on a 2005 is the purpose of the two holes in the lower part of the front bumper, for ventilation? I've noticed louvered coverings on some and on some, not. Mine is one of the nots but I feel something loose inside as I have felt thru the hole.

 

That is the space for factory fog lights. If the inserts "louvers" are gone and there are no lights, it means someone took one or the other out. You can get new inserts from the dealer if you decide you want them.

 

MLPearson79

Thanks so much. After reading here and slowly getting things a little organized in my head, I'm taking my MINI in to get totally gone over.
I've not taken maintance issues to heart these past years, as my husband has always dealt with those things on his GMC vehicles.
To try and learn the basics on my MINI has been a confidence booster.

 

There are a couple of manuals you might be interested in getting. They will give you a run down on how certain systems and components work on our cars. And a lot of the jobs, you'll see you can do yourself. Ther is a Haynes Manual and a Bentley Manual. I'd probably suggest the Bentley for you as it's a bit more descriptive. You can get these manuals from some of the specialty MINI sites. And of course there is an unlimited tap for resources and information right here on NAM.

 

Mine is one of the nots but I feel something loose inside as I have felt thru the hole.
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That is the missing piece you feel. It can not fall out the only way to get it out is to pull the inner fender and pop it back into place. Not to hard of a job

 

Fatherdeth and 03BRG,
Thanks.