Greetings! Just curious if anyone here has successfully had an install of the JCW tuning kit on a 2012? I'm supposed to pick my car up today, but just found out that "something is not communicating properly when they try and re-program the computer". Apparently the techs at the dealership *and* MINI engineers are unable to figure out the problem. I figured it would be a long-shot since it's so early in the build year, but I thought I would ask all our resident experts here!

No fingernails remaining,

 

Subzero, placed an order for JCW tuning kit today for my 2012 MCS MT. I am scheduled to have it installed Monday. I will keep you updated.

 

Cool, I hope you have better luck than I am, still no resolution on my end, but they say they hope to have it resolved today. One of their senior techs in New Jersey is supposed to be remoting in and manually re-programming my software. At least I got a free JCW strut brace out of the deal!

My only advice would be to make sure they are aware of the issue up front so they don't get your intake and exhaust on and then tell you they have no way of getting your car running again. If they have any questions, I would have them call Mini Of Plano in Texas and talk to my MA Jeremy Lucky or the service tech Mike to get the lowdown.

Keep us updated, and I will do the same!

 

Thank you Jon. I plan on calling them today. I hope they are able to correct the problem for you today. Let us know.

 

Sure thing, bud! I will report back today regardless of the outcome.
cheers

 

Unfortunately I have an update, and it's that they've made no progress coming up with a solution. They basically have no idea at this point, let's hope day 10 brings good news...

 

Sorry to hear that. I know it has to be driving you crazy. At least you know that when it is fixed it will be amazing and you have the strut brace to boot.

I didn't get chance to call my MA today. I think I'm going to go by the dealership and show the service tech your posts concerning this issue.

 

Well it looks like after all that, there is a solution!

The service manager called me back a few minutes ago and said that techs in NJ were able to remote in and manually reprogram my car for the Tuning Kit! Right now they are driving it to test it out as well as make sure the new alignment with the JCW suspension is ok.

If all goes as expected, I should be in business this evening...

JE, I hope this new info makes your installation go smoothly. I will be sure to let you know how it drives asap. Good luck!

 

Jon, that is great news! Can't wait to hear about that first driving experience.
JE

 

Hey JE, quick update....the JCW tuning kit is ridiculous!!!!!
Due to break-in period, I've hardly gotten on it at all, but I can already tell the difference between it and the stock S that I had for a loaner. It is really amazing, and I'm so glad that I decided to go the JCW route instead of aftermarket parts.

Probably a lame analogy, but it feels like it flows smoother...almost like blowing air through a regular drinking straw, and then doing the same with one of those big Slurpee straws, it's simply effortless.

I hope today is the day you are getting your kit installed, please report back, I'm sure you are going to be blown away!

Check out the 1st-Gear forum, I posted a rundown and a link to pics in the "Meet " thread.

Cheers!

 

Jon, I looked on 1st Gear and your car is absolutely amazing. I am jealous of the JCW suspension. Yes, my tuning kit is being installed at this moment. I will let you know how it goes. Now I also want that suspension. I guess you can't have it all.

 

JE, thanks for the compliments, I really appreciate it!
Let us know how your tuning kit install went, I'm sure you are loving it and driving it nonstop!!

Cheers

 

Jon, I wish I could report back that I am driving it nonstop. Believe it or not I am going through the same issues you went through. Even after warning the service tech about your problems my car remains at the dealer. It has now been a week and they still have not figured out the software issue. They are now waiting for the tech specialist from New Jersey to call in. The frustrating part is that this specialist knows what the problem is but is being very slow in getting back with the service tech.
My tech says the car runs great but the engine light comes on as soon as he drives it. It just seems ridiculous that MINI knows that there is an issue but does not do anything about it. As you well know, this is very frustrating and quickly leaving a bad taste in my mouth.
Hopefully I will have something positive to report in the next day or two. JE

 

Oh no, man! I'm really gutted to hear that. I was really hoping that my experience would have helped you out, but I guess this issue is beyond the dealership level at this point. How is the dealership handling it as far as keeping you updated? Are you in a loaner?

I know it's no consolation, but do know that they will get it resolved and you will totally love it. I know from experience that it's hard to believe that right now, but it did take them 7 days to get mine right. Keep me updated if you would!

Like you said, how there could be a continuing problem is beyond anyone's guess....keep your head up, bro!!

 

Thanks Jon. The dealer has been pretty good about updating me but their hands are pretty much tied right now. They did provide a loaner from day one so that has helped. I will keep you updated.

 

Hey Jon, I am happy to report that after 10 long days the software has been properly updated and the install on my tuning kit is complete. It appears that there is a protocol that the dealer has to go through prior to New Jersey getting involved. Several days and several attempts by my technician before New Jersey would step in.

All of that doesn't matter now because the car is absolutely amazing. It sounds great, I think the additional power is very noticeable, and the exhaust tips and engine upgrades look amazing. In addition, the dealer also allowed me to order a JCW strut brace for free. Should be installed this week. I will try to post some pics in the next few days.

Thank you very much for all of your information and support. You were right, in the end it was all worth it.

 

Woohoo! That was good timing, I was just going to ask how it was going and then I saw your report. Great news, man! Glad to hear you are loving it. The power and sound difference are something else!

Cool news also on the strut brace, they did the same for me and it looks totally sick under the hood. The JCW tips are just too cool looking.

Glad it worked out, I'm sure you can't wait to do some motoring! Can't wait to see pics...

Congrats!

 

Does the exhaust sound alot different from stock?Ordered my kit for 2012 S from morristown mini.

 

I think it does. More of a growl and more pop and burble. Sounds great with the windows down. I am really pleased with the kit all around and feel it adds a lot to the fun factor. Keep us updated on your install.