If I recall correctly, it was originally the turbocharged cars in the 80's that were recommended 3000 mile oil changes....Then all these little rinky dink oil change places (jiffy lube, etc) started popping up and all of the sudden EVERYONE's car had to have 3000 mile oil changes. I personally think it's a waste of money to change oil every 3000 miles (normal driving). I think 5000 to 7500 miles is a reasonable interval. (I went 12000 with my MCS last time) My mechanic kinda chewed me out for it...(oil was pretty nasty).

 

instructions I'm sticking to what the owners manual says. I'd guess your MINI came without one so here's what it says...first change is at 10,000 miles, but this can vary depending on your driving habits so keep an eye on the center speedo display. When you first start your car it will tell you how many miles till your next oil change. After the first change it goes up to 15,000 miles till your next oil change. All that said and my motoring advisor suggests every 5,000 miles. At about $75/change at the dealer I'll do it myself if it ever comes to that. Lastly the answer is that the MINI uses fully synthetic oil (again mentioned in the owners manual) and requires fewer oil changes.