I was one of the people who placed my order for the R56 before MiniUSA decided to pull the wood wheel option due to crash test problems. Word has it that they will be re-releasing the wood wheel in May. When I took posession of my new MC this week, I asked the dealer if it was possible to get a 'We Owe' to have them install (at no cost to me) the wood wheel when it becomes available since I had initially specc'd it but the dealer had to pull it from my build sheet due to constraints imposed on them by MiniUSA. They affirmed that the wheel was going to be re-introduced in May and said they would be happy to install it for me if it becomes available as an aftermarket upgrade but looked at me like I had two heads when I asked them to pay for it. Has anyone had similar conversations with their dealer? I'm thinking of taking my request to MiniUSA next in hopes that I'll have some luck at the corporate office. - The dealer's reaction didn't surprise me too much (Mini of St Louis has not been the best to work with...Not returning e-mail, trying to restrict my financing options to in-house only, etc.) Besides, techincally the decision was made at the corporate (not dealer) level.

 

All I can say is my dealer thought it was fair to owe me the wood steering wheel when it comes in, with no complaint. They suggested that as one of two options - The other option I had was not to pay for the original wheel I didn't order. (and then I could buy one when they become available)

Good luck.

- R

 

I also wanted the wood wheel. My dealer says they will swap it no charge when they become available. Sounds fair to me!

 

I have heard that MINI is obligated to swap. However, unless there is some formal policy, we will just wait and see.

 

I heard something similar today. MA said my car was slated for the wood wheel. He didn't know the time frame, however.

Anyone else heard anything?

 

I too am waiting for a wood wheel swap, I am led to also beleive it will be a free swap, I think soon they will be contacting the affected parties, my MA originally told me May or June.

 

We picked up the wifes car last Friday. It was ordered in March with the wood wheel and came with.

 

That's nice looking. I wish I'd gotten one of those now. Oh well....

 

I notice the shift **** nor brake handle have the wood trim? Were they suppossed to with the wood steering wheel?

 

Unless MINI put out a contrary updated policy in writing, by the normal disclaimers in the manual and elsewhere, MINI has no obligation to provide a free swap. MINI, like every car manufacturer, has a disclaimer stating it can change the availability of options and features at any time. Of course, if you paid for the wheel, they have the obligation to give it to you or refund the money.

 

No, they are not available in wood from the factory, only the wheel. You can get the leather boots in a brown color as an option, not the handles or ***** though.

 

Thanks - that helps I will not push the dealer to replace my leather wheel even though I had ordered the wood. Originally it was to include a wood shift **** and brake handle. The combo of the 3 makes the package worthwhile in my opinion.

 

love the wood sw.

nice.