I noticed this problem today. I thought I was not shifting right when I saw the high RPMs but then I noticed that even when stopped it only goes down to 3000 RPM.

My question is, how do I know if it's the RPM meter that is broke or if the car really is doing 3000 RPM while stopped?

 

Listen?
3000 is very diffent than 1200 or 600-800 (cold/warm idles)...
Just for a thought....
Mini usually CRUISE on the highway at about 3200 rpm....

 

If your car is really idling at 3000 rpm, you'll definitely know from the excessive amount of noise and vibration. What does the tach show when you rev the engine in neutral?