Back in the game with a new to me 2007 R52 with about 85k miles. It seems in pretty good shape but it is a high mileage Mini so there's that to be realistic about; I know a good shop that I trusted with my prior 2006 Cooper S hatchback but they are in Los Gatos which is a bit of a hike if there's a disabling event

Any experience with R5* techs would be great

cheers

 

You could check to see if any area Mini clubs are still active. If so, they may have suggestions. Here's a link to the NAM page for clubs in your area.
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ini-clubs.html

 

Thanks for the link, sadly 2 that seemed near-ish are no more :(

 

.

 

Google mini cooper service in Monterey Ca, You see several to choose from.