A warning that your MINI might just fall apart when you least expect it

Just washed and was wiping down, bonnet was open and lower chromed plastic grill piece just popped out.

Complete surprise and a lower 'tab' had a sharp bit of chrome and took paint on its way out.


Click here for Large detailed version of small pix above. (1800x1200)

I took a file to that particular sharp edge and hope to catch the next piece that pops off before damage can occur./

 

I relate to your pain. Recently got my first one too.

 

I got mine about a month into ownership. A strong wind blew down our basketball goal and gave us a dent, a scratch, a chip, and a cracked headlight cover.

On the bright side, the experience curbed my potential to become an OBC detailer.

 

Sounds like a warranty fix to me. That piece should not just fall out?
It's worth a try, talking to your dealership.
My first drive, I caught a stone on the windshield, EXACTLY in line of sight.

 

got 2 stone chips at the turbo and big scratch at the head light within 2 months....ouch.

 

one rock... two chips. nice lil dent on the hood after 3000 miles of driving... worst comes worst, just do the touch up paint yourself. there are lot of threads regarding how to do it as professionally as possible.

other than that, trixy still loves you!

 

Touch-up for sure, just have to get the matching kit, at least it is into plastic and corrosion will not be a concern.
I will also check the threads on the subject, this NAM is a great resource.

It did not "just fall out" as I had bonnet open and was wiping off the rinse water.

Happy that it only took such tiny damage to highten my awareness to watch out for such 'accidents'.

I don't think it could fall out with bonnet closed and when I do visit Dealer Service,
I will show them what happened in case there may be a fastener or clip missing.

Many years ago, caught a stone in 'her' windshield and was amazed with the simple repair
that made it completely disappear without replacing windshield.