During my 2nd free maintenance check up (25K-30K) the MINI tech said he had discovered a fluid leak in the input shaft seal of the transmission. (I have the 6 speed manual.)

He replaced the seal and now the transmission feels a bit different (for the better): The shift from 1st to 2nd does not go "kachunk" anymore and overall the shifting feels more "cushioned."

Has anyone else had this problem?

 

Ooops.

I meant to post this on "beneath the bonnet."