I've been looking for a MINI part, and was astounded at both the level of service in finding that part as well as the prices.

I thought you guys might be interested in knowing what I discovered.

I'm looking for part
#82-69-0-149-253
Which is the aerokit spoiler adhesive

Because I'm in SoCal, I decided to search all the nearest dealers I could drive to.

I first called Long Beach MINI, and they said I got to order it and it's $12.75

Next I called South Bay MINI, and they said I have to order it, but they can have it by Thursday. It's $12.75

Next I called Universal MINI, and surprisingly they were the most helpful. They said they don't have it in stock but confirmed the price and he then voluntarily did a search for me to find out who DOES have it. I was referred to Assael.

I call Assael next, and yep they have it. it's $21.04
I'm like huh?? Everyone else has told me it's $12.75. Mark fumbles for a bit, and he's like, uh oh yeah it is $12.95. I said why the difference. Ugh, some parts have a markup. Oh there's a premium on parts too?? This is the dealer known for the highest premiums. Then he's like, uh, there's NO mark up on this one.

The moral of this story is that---do your research when parts shopping! I was also looking for MCS sideskirts, and I had a 2 year old quote from Classic that priced them at under $40. I was shocked to see that they are now $70 each. Hmmmm.

I cringe at the thought of having to give money to Assael for this part.

 

I found big price differences between dealers on the dealer installed options when I ordered my 2005 MC. For example, the Alarm System lists for $295. The dealer I bought my MINI from wanted $395 installed, while a competitor I was also dealing with wanted $595 installed . I figured I saved a good $400-$500 by getting the installed pricing up front before I decided who to order my car from.


Jim D.
2005 MC HB/W

 

I order from classic. I got a part from Classic for $11.50 that Crevier quoted me $44.00 on. Nuff said.

 

its called price matrixing the dealer decides how much profit they want to make based on the cost of the part....i'm an ex-parts manager my dealer general manager forced me to do it i do not like the matrix......some dealers think they have a monopoly because they are the only game in town....guess they never heard of the internet..........just my 2cents worth......

 

Do you have a number or web address for them? A Google search takes me to mini-mania and some others. TIA.

 

Check this thread out--they are a sponsor here

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...play.php?f=118

I like to buy from them as well, but sometimes shipping costs so much that it's not worth it--depends on the item.

Richard