There is a big difference between a Warranty and the Maintenence plan. Warranties cover major mechanical and electrical components, such as drivetrain and transmission, and will pay for their replacement due to defects. The Maintenence plan covers wear and tear items, such as oil changes and brake pads and rotors provided the wear is normal and within certain guidelines. This is why you cannot compare the prices since they cover completely different aspects of vehicle ownership.

 

I'm in the same predicament with regard to the MCS I will be picking up in August.

As I understand it, with the extended maintenance you are freezing the price for a few oil changes, maybe a set of brakes and maybe a clutch. The price seems to vary somewhere between $1,395 and $1,895 according to different posts on NAM.

I see Warranties Direct offer an extended warranty for 6 years/75,000 miles ($100 deductible) for $1,372. It does not include a clutch among other things but is still notably cheaper than prices quoted above for dealer offered extended warranty.

It's a gamble, but it may be worth taking a chance and not get either extension to save some $3,000 now and put that money aside for whatever maintenance you truly do need in a few years.

 

That would be great, I'd really like to see those.

Gotcha. That wasn't really explained too well to me at the dealership. I was under the distinct impression that it was a Mini offer...

 

leicaguy- i went with crown mini in richmond.

 

PatrickForman thanks for the verbatim on the maintenance program. The clutch is a biggy. I'm now leaning towards getting the maintenance even at 1895. It covers the car for 3 years and from 36K-100K in mileage. It looks like good insurance on a new clutch before 100K, and could possibly be eaten up in other brakes and flushings etc. even before that point.

Does this have to be bought at the point of sale or can it be purchased during the first 3 year 36K maintenance agreement?

At 2661 I don't think the warranty is worth it though.

 

My MA told me that the clutch would not be covered? I didn't take the plan because after the initial 36K, I don't plan on the dealer touching my Mini unless it's for a recall.

 

I found a sight that sells the BMW and MINI USA extended maintenance programs. It has the agreement so you can actually read the fine print before buying (how refreshing). Price is 1595 for the extension to 6 yrs 100K. You can purchase it anytime before 3 yrs or 36K whichever comes first.

http://www.twinkidneygrill.com/catal...07/5923267.htm