I currently have about 900 miles and i heard that after 1200 miles the motor is broken in. I would like to change the oil at 1200 miles. What oil besides Castrol Synthetic can I use? and what grade? Also should I change the oil filter too?

Thanks

I would still use 5w-30 and probably use the Castrol that MINI recommends, but Mobil 1 is good as well....always change the filter when you change the oil.

There are several synthetic oils you can use, but you have to be sure to get 15,000 mile rated full synthetic if you want to stay with MINI specs. The MINI branded Castrol the MINI dealer sells is reasonably priced, and you know it is to spec.

If you go with Mobil 1, make sure it is Mobil 1 Extended, not regular Mobil 1. The regular stuff doesn't meet spec.

There have been several threads debating the various oils. Search this forum and you will find lots to read.

Oh, and it is probably more important to change filters than to change oil.

7,500 miles with the original oil on mines. No problems so I'm not changing anything.

Any type of specific oil filter that I should look for?

For the oil the specs have to be 15,000 miles and 5w-30?

I used the OEM filter. It is available from several vendors listed here on NAM. Check around for the best price. You might find that mentioned in one of the other threads. I bought this:
http://new.minimania.com/web/Item/G2.../InvDetail.cfm

However, the 27mm socket is easy to find at any auto supply, and you need a Torx for the drain plug. There is a good DIY oil change thread with instructions and photos. It has the specific OEM specs for the oil as well. Basically, it is 5w-30 full synthetic rated for 15,000 miles. However, there are some SAE numbers that might make it easier to sort out in store.

I must admit this whole do change the oil, don't change the oil is baffling. I got mine in June and have about 6800 miles clocked up already.

Those of you that do decide to get oil changes, I presume you don't get the counter reset, so you can still take advantage of your 'free' oil change from Mini?

Also, does anyone know a trusted place to get the oil change done in the Pittsubrgh area?

If you order 4 here, total comes to $52.xx....with shipping. Does anyone know any other place with better price?
http://www.minicarparts.net/Parts/11_42_7_557_012.cfm

OK, I'll look up the DIY thread for you.
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=101513

No, your OBC does not get reset. For most of us it is going to at the one year interval, anyway.

Your dealer, but it will be expensive.

I wouldn't go to any of those quick oil change services. I had a very bad experience with Jiffy Lube, and another one I tried (previous car) over-filled some fluids.

It is actually fairly easy to do it yourself if you use one of those containers that catch and hold the oil. Just buy the right tools and do it yourself.

Just look for the gold colored cap and you'll know you have the right stuff.

I got a friend who will help me do the oil change, He is got one of those pumps that sucks the engine oil out, without having to get under the car.

All I need is to buy the right oil and oil filter. For Oil I am going to Costco to get their Mobil 1 synthetic 15K mile oil. Any links for the oil filter, or what store carries it?

By the time you notice anything about the health of your motor it will be far too late. Oil that's too old with cause accelerated wear on a micron level. I'm not saying 7500 miles is too long. Just keep in mind the only way to know if your oil is still doing it's job is to have the oil analyzed.

Since there have been reports of fuel dilution with direct injection engines, including one confirmation on a R56, I'm having my oil analyzed at 5000 miles to see how it's doing.

After you have the oil analyzed, could you let us all know your findings?

Thank You

I just bought OEM oil filters from minicarparts.com a vendor here on the board but I think there are others that sell here also. $10.95 per filter which seemed reasonable for OEM filter. While my mini is under warranty I wanted to only use OEM filters and spec oil. I have always done my own oil changes but I also keep my receipts for filters and fluids along with detailed records to substantiate maintenance done to prevent future warranty issues.

Might just be easiest/best to get a filter from a MINI dealer.

I've found that the big jug of oil is cheaper at Wal-Mart than Costco

For the Mobil 1 Synthetic 15,000 miles oil? How many quarts do I need?

Thanks

FWIW I just turned over 1200 miles and changed my oil. I got a OEM filter kit from MiniMotoring. I went to the local autoparts to pick up oil and after carefully scrutinizing the service designations on mobile 1 extended service and castrol full synthetic went with the latter. It was listed as exceeding SJ (which is what the owner's manual recommendations are) whereas the mobile didn't list SJ service. I also discussed it with the parts guy (who asked specifically what car it was for and then recommended the castrol over the mobil).

what is SJ? Where do they sell Castrol full synthetic for cheap. I saw it at autozone at about $6/quart

IIRC, it was $5.40 at my MINI dealer (MINI of Mountian View)

I just picked up the MINI branded oil for $5.40/qt also at Nick Alexander MINI of Los Angeles. They sold me the filter for $18.00 which is more than the on-line places sell for but was convenient to get the oil and filter in one place.

Walmart has 5 quart jugs of both Castrol full synthetic and Mobil 1 and is the cheapest around here.

At Walmart, 5qt Castrol is $19.97.

I have spent hours, literally, researching oil or no oil change. My conclusion-its my car and my piece of mind. I changed my oil at 1200. You don't "need" to change the oil until 15000 miles per MINI but for the $50 you will spend initally (low pro ramp, 27mm socket, oil, filter) I have piece of mind. NOw if you are going to change your oil I would always change the filter. I used one from MINI. As to what oil to use Mobil 1 or Castro Syn, i think it is like the question Chevron or Mobil gas. OK now I will hear all the reasons why chevron v mobil.

I didn't change it because I don't know how. Not because I'm cheap. I saw on TV that places that were supposed to change your oil didn't even perform the service. If anyone is by Monterey Park, CA and can help I'd be grateful =)