Hey All,

Well, I just had my MINI's oil changed (at the dealership, even.) a month or so ago. I didn't check the level, but I assume they filled it all the way up. Between then and now, I took a roadtrip that was probably around 2,000KM. Much of it was extremely hard driving... 90+MPH, climbing steep mountain passes and really working the car in hot weather. I checked my oil level today and I was nearly a quart low. It definitely is not leaking, as there are no spots where I park her. I haven't noticed any smoke, or anything out of the ordinary, and the car is running great.

Could I have used up a bunch of oil just by driving her hard for a couple of days? Is it possible the dealership doesn't always fill to "MAX"? I'm checking level as per the manual, with the car warm on a level surface.

Thanks!
Dan

 

Over 160,000 combined miles on 3 different R50s and I have never had any of them burn oil, Danny. And those miles were driven with various levels of aggression.

I'd bet a paycheck and half another that the tech didn't add enough during your oil change.

 

Bet you burnt it....
The mini motor does tend to use a bit....the fact you drove it hard and got it hot likely helped a bit...just keep an eye on the level, and have fun.
In my opinion, it has to do with both the orgional breakin of the motor, and likely, the choices mini made in engine desgin...the rings, etc. Fresh oil does tend to burn down a bit initally, but even if the consumption continues, it does ensure the oil stays fresh, cause you will be adding a few quarts between oil changes.
as for leaks....many common mini leaks blow back...and do not make spots on the garage floor....so a quick look at the crank postion sensor, oil pan and oil filter area is a quick simple thing....
I am in a r53....but since most oil change places use hoses and meters, maybe the dealer was a bit off...in any case, check you oil......

 

Thanks for the input, guys

I do check it regularly, I generally take a look under the hood every few weeks, but I'll start doing it weekly to see how things are going. I keep a quart in the trunk, just to be on the safe side.