My thermostat housing is leaking (hurray!), I think I have a grasp on the repair process, but I'm not seeing anyone mentioning which parts they are using. Is everyone going with OE parts from Mini? The Gates parts are less than half the cost and I've had solid luck with them on other cars.

Anyone go aftermarket and live to tell about it?

 

I haven't needed to replace mine yet but I wouldn't hesitate to go with the Gates unit.

 

I typically recommend to stick with Genuine MINI parts for the thermostat. They're not that much more expensive when compared to their aftermarket counterpoints. They also come with a full manufacture warranty that is the same that you would get from going to the dealer.

Thermostat here: http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/..._pg1.htm#item4

 

a bit aside but is there really a parts supplier named "Aftermarket" ? (the most expensive option on that page by the way).

 

Going to do the repair yourself? This video may help. Let us know if you have any questions:

http://new.minimania.com/How-To-Inst...g-MINI-S-Gen-2

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

I threw caution to the wind and went with the Gates unit, $60 shipped. This is a PITA job, in hindsight I'd probably go with the OE part given the hassle of redoing the job. That said, the Gates part is a (visually) faithful replication of the stock part

 

Anyone in need of an OE housing I have a new one in Marketplace. Bought it and ending up selling car before needing it.

 

I ordered mine from FCP Euro. It was a genuine Mini unit. This unit was a bit different that the original and I needed an adapter for the wiring and a new upper rad hose...

I went to the dealer to get one, but they didn't have any in stock and were on back order for like a month, it was ridiculous.

The install isn't hard, it just annoying.

 

I would say if you plan on keeping car for a long time, go with OEM. If your going to sale it soon go with aftermarket.

 

I had an Ebay unit. Lasted about 7 months before the car would not get up to temp at all. Got a CEL light as well, forget what it was. Replaced with a OEM unit lest week.