I have decided it's probably a good idea to get the maintenance plan. After reading through all the treads about how dealers won't change your clutch without maintenance plan, I was convinced I probably need it (I live in San Francisco, on top of a hill, brake and clutch wear is gonna be more than most people).

I was quoted $1600, knowing me I probably won't be able to haggle it down much. $1760 (with tax) for a clutch and some oil change seems like a decent enough deal.

The only problem right now is since I'm a grad student, I have limited funds (won't be able to come up with it for a month or two) but my car is about to hit the 36k mark which the finance manager said after 36k I'll be ineligible for the upgrade. I was wondering if the car needs to be present for mileage check or can I bring in my spare key in a few months and use that key to get the upgrade.

Any advice would be appreciated. Love my newish Mini though, definitely the greatest car I've ever owned.

Thanks

MC

 

I agree. I paid $1895 for the plan but I beat the dealer down another $600 off the price of the Mini. Fantastic car. One of the best auto buys I have ever made.

 

Before getting the plan, just get a detailed list of things it covers and what it does not cover. Don't want any surprises when you have to use it and there have been some.

 

Ther is sticky that details the coverage. Do not expect to come out ahead but you will probably break even. I paid 1375 for the plan and I am satisfied with it. After my 36,000 free maintenance, this is what I anticipate:

3 oil changes [3x $90]: $270
Spark Plugs. Every 2nd oil change with JCW kit. [2 x 400]: $800
Brakes/Rotors [2 fronts, 1 rear @ $500]: $1500

With these charges I already made money on it.

 

Regarding your question about the mileage.
Our dealership would have you come in, get a key read done and then you come back shortly to buy the plan, idk if they'd let you do two months, Iknow we would let cutomers come back within a week or two.

What about financing the plan? most Dealerships let you finance it at 0%apr...

 

Yeah, I thought about financing too. I guess I prefer paying things in full vs. taking on loans. Thanks for all the input on the maintenance plan utility.

Having switched beaters car every years for the last 14 years, I think this car will finally stay with me till the wheel fall off!

MC