To those who are unfamiliar with my situation with my Mini, here is a shot version:
My mini arrived at VDC on 03/25/07 and was scheduled for delivery on the 31st. Due to a missing key my car was held at the VDC for now more than 3 weeks for a replament key and now a replacment of the locking mechanism etc. I went and complained about the experience to my sale person, regional manager and MiniUSA. Now they are offering one of the following as a compensation for the delay:

1. Driving Lamps - interesting idea kind of liked the look, but I live in Chicago so real use may be limited. Also may get stolen since I park on the street. A definite maybe
2. iPod adapter - My wife and I own a few ipod and are Apple fans, my father has it on his BMW and I liked the convience. A front runner at the moment.
3. Carbon Fiber hood scoop and mirror caps - I have the chrome package so I already have chrome mirror. Don't know about this one.
4. Road Block on your hood - No idea what the hell it even is. Please help me on this one.

Any input will be greatly appreciated

UPDATE: Yes installation is included

 

I would personally get the iPod adapter. I think you would get the most enjoyment out of that.

 

Just a guess, but I would say "road block" is probably like Invisishield. Would the ipod adapter include the install? If so, I'd definitely go with that. If not, I would also demand a set -- and LOW -- amount to install it. Otherwise, you will end up rewarding the dealer with further profit.

 

Sorry about your hassle, hope the wait pays off soon!

My vote is for the lamps, I think they are sweeeet looking. I don't know if theft would be my first concern, but what about damage from people backing up into you when parking?

There is an AUX port that allows you to use the iPod, as you probably know. The adapter charges it and allows you to control it through the stereo.

 

The aux port does not allow you to integrate ipod info into the stereo or the multi-function steering buttons.

 

I would think iPod adapter, since there have been many reports of dealers charging ungodly prices for the install. As there does not seem to be any aftermarket adapter available yet and you can always get the other three from the aftermarket at your convenience (and at much lower than dealer pricing) the iPod adapter looks like the winner.

 

Moss MINI is advertising an ipod adapter for the 07 MINI. But, you are right, dealer install is crazy!

 

I would ask for both the Driving lights AND the IPOD!!!!
I HAS been 3 weeks

 

I can't tell you what to do, but if I were faced with that choice I would ask for cash. Driving Lamps are about $1K installed. Of course, they are not going to give you $1K, but might give you their cost on the lamps + install.

I'd tell them I don't like/need any of their offers and would prefer a $600 reduction in the cost of the car. Open a negotiation and see where it goes.

dean.

 

If you wouldn't get much use from the driving lights then I say go IPOD for sure. I constantly listen to music from my MP3 player in the MINI as the radio stations around here are lame & it's great when you take a trip

 

I have the IPod adapter. It cost $520 which includes the install. Your IPod goes in the glove compartment and connects with the integrated MINI Sound System. This charges your IPod and allows you to select tracts and view what you are listening to. It's decent, but probably not worth the $500+. One thing that makes it more useful is to create lots of playlists. By the way no directions came with it?

 

I-Pod adapter, for sure.

 

I think I am going to go with the iPod adaptor, I do think I will get the most use out of it. And I worry about getting the driving lamps rip off my car afterall this guy got his spare tire stolen from his Jeep (he parked right in front of me).
BTW looks like my total delay time will be more than 5 weeks
Guess it's about $100 per week they are paying me.