Been lurking on here on and off for a few years and finally picked up a MINI. I'm going to start modding it soon and wanted to hear some opinions. I know there are different sub forums for these mods, but I thought it might be better to just ask these questions in one thread.

I need an armrest. OEM or aftermarket? Any recommendations?

Who makes a 3" downpipe that can mate to the Alta catback?

Which FMIC will fit with the least modifications/cutting of the bumper?

I know Accessport is not made for the 11+, but is there anyone else that makes a chip for these cars in the US?

I'm thinking about picking up some H&R coilovers, are endlinks/control arms necessary?

TIA

 

I can answer a few of your questions

Which FMIC will fit with the least modifications/cutting of the bumper?

From what I understand, the Helix doesn't require cutting. Personally, I went with Forge. They do not require cutting either, and the FMIC comes with another bumper grill to boot. Add to the fact that it's bolted on during installation rather then just hanging by the boost tubes, personally I felt it was my best bet. That said, there are plenty of satisfied Helix and ALTA FMIC customers out there.

I know Accessport is not made for the 11+, but is there anyone else that makes a chip for these cars in the US?

I don't think anyone has cracked those ECUs yet. Just be patient it'll come eventually

I'm thinking about picking up some H&R coilovers, are endlinks/control arms necessary?

Endlinks aren't really necessary unless you're corner balancing, and unless you're wanting to get super slammed you may not need control arms either. Your camber might be a bit more then before, but you might still be fine. That being said, these things can't hurt and aren't bad to have. If they're within your budget I say go for it.

 

Thanks for the help Maverick. I'm still looking into downpipes and catbacks. Hopefully someone will chime in.

 

Wait until your car can be tuned before you get a downpipe so you don't get CELs and personally I think 3" dp back exhaust is best (making sure you have a 3" do also) but that my opinion. There are other ways to go. I just don't want to start a argument lol

 

I ordered Molly with the OEM Armrest, so I'd say go that way, but it is a personal decision, as I know some people wouldn't have one at all...Hubby and I always seem to be able share Molly's at the same time with no issues.

 

AFAIK, none of the intercoolers bolt to a 2012 car. MINI changed the bumper support and the tab on the intercoolers doesn't fit. (At least that's what I remember from watching and talking to Way at a local install day...

Anyway... Why doesn't the OP just take delivery and learn to drive the car before he sets off with debatable mods?


No matter what you do, a MINI is never going to be a ZR1 Corvette... (talking about LS9 power numbers)

Be serious and honest with your intended uses.

Slamming a daily driver on coilovers is probably an epic fail.

Removing cats, EPIC FAIL

3" pipes, downpipes, no tuning on a 2012 car is an EPIC FAIL.


Me? First thing I'd do is replace the totally crap shocks and springs with TSW springs and Koni shocks and a 19mm rear bar. (no wait, that's what I did do....) HUGE DIFFERENCE....

Add an intercooler just to keep the power you do have more consistent.


Get a bunch of stickers...

 

Be patient as I am sure more mods will come as more people get their hands on the newer models. It generally takes a brave soul to submit their NEW car to beta testing of parts.

 

How much did that drop your car?

 

The TSW springs drop it about 1/2" in front and maybe 3/4 in the rear. Looks more like 3/4 all aover...

 

thats sounds pretty reasonable (dont want to drop that much, can barely get over my speed bump already)