I just bought at 2007 MC S convertible with 27K miles. I brought it to the dealer to find out how much it would cost to replace the rubber gasket (frayed, cracked, missing small pieces) around the soft top, and was surprised to find out it is still under warranty, and they will replace for free (car sold in April 2008, so it is less than 4 years old).

However, the service guy told me I really should get the transmission fluid changed, but it costs $490 to do that!! (Also, an oil change is $100!).

So, my question is - do you think it really needs transmission fluid change (he said at 30K miles), and how about the cost?? Is that fair?

What specifically should they be doing for that amount of money (flushing, changing, etc)??

Thanks much for any advice... new Mini owner.

 

Anything done by the dealer is more once out of warranty. Changing the trans fluid is preventative maintenance and is good in the long term. I would consider buying the proper fluid and having an independent mechanic change the juice for you. It should be much cheaper and net the same results.

 

Is it the 6 speed auto or the CVT?

 

It's the 6 speed Gertag automatic. It has the steering wheel shifter paddles as well as the manual option on the shifter.

 

How can you tell which one you have? I'm at 60k mi and thinking I'm over due for trans service.
Thx

 

The 1st gen S models have the 6 speed auto(with paddle shifters)and non-S models have the CVT.