Do you HAVE to put premium fuel in them or is it just recommended? I had an A4 that recommended premium fuel but I ran it for 4 years on regular w/o any problems. Also, does the Mini run on synthetic oil ? What do oil changes cost?

 

You don't have to do anything, but if you put lower octane fuel you're not going to get the most out of the engine, and you’re going to reduce mileage, losing the money you saved by buying cheaper gas.

Yes, the MINI runs synthetic oil. Oil changes are free for the first 36,000 miles as regular maintenance; you'll get two before the free maintenance ends. After that, you're on your own. Hopefully someone will know the going price of synthetic oil changes, as I do not. Welcome to NAM!!

 

Premium fuel requirement = yes!

Synthetic oil = Yes!

Don't go cheap on your car. Premium fuel is only $.10-$.15 more than regular 87-89 gas. Always follow manufacturers' recommendation regardless of what you read in here.

 

I was just reading this thread yesterday.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=50189

Lots of good info there.

 

I think running cheap gas in anything (other than older cars) isnt that great. But thats just my $0.02
I wouldnt run any less than 91 or 93 in a forced induction car.

 

Why risk damaging the engine to save 2 or 3 bucks a tank?