I have owned my r53 for about two years already. Only put an exhaust and some rims one, but now im about to upgrade. Wanting to do a performance package; pulley 15% or 16%, intake (alta or dinan, etc.) Im wanting to know your thoughts on those brands, and as where the closest place to get this kind of work done. I live near Pasadena, CA so anyone know of places close by that know what they are doing? specifically on a mini. So please anyone with the knowledge about pasadena please speak up!!

 

Talk to Steve at Steves Auto Clinic in North Hills. (818)891-6109

 

A's Garage in Monterey Park (corner of Monterey Pass Rd. and Vagabond) recently opened here. MP is close to Pasadena and just about due south. He works on BMWs and MINIs although I do not know what type of work he does, what all he does nor can I vouch for his workmanship other than to say his place is always busy. I believe he was in LA prior to this. My MINI CM is just a week old so even though he is just two blocks away from me, for now I need to go to an authorized MINI dealer.

 

Mini Corsa in North Hollywood, excellent work on MINIs.

 

I second these guys: I've only had an oil change done there so far (still under warranty, etc), but I've seen Danny out at track days winning new customers and supporting existing ones.

 

Motoring Magic!
in Thousand Oaks

Scott Macintyre runs the shop and he's the only one out of all the other shops that actually participates and is an active member of the So Cal MINI club.

Hands down best work and HONEST prices

 

Scott DOES do great work--but the OP asked about "closest". I live in Altadena, right around the corner from the OP, and I have driven out to Thousand Oaks a couple of times (for my Koni FSD's, for instance), and love Scott's attitude, work ethic, team of guys, and prices. But close he ain't! The good news is, you clearly have a few great options to choose from in SoCal!