So, we just picked up our 2011 MCS on Saturday. Our MA told us that, because of the new '11 front bumper, the grill for the driving lights changed, as well. He said that the new version won't be available for order until December 23, and may be in at the dealership a week or two after that. This was the first I had heard of the bumper causing the grill to change.

Has anyone else ordered a 2011 S with driving lights, or heard anything about this? Thanks.

 

From what I understand, it's the bracket that the driving lights mount to is causing the delay. At first I was going to order the MINI driving lights, but I changed my mind and I'll order aftermarket lights

 

Well, I didn't hear anything about the delay until the day our car came in. We already paid for the the lights and install and everything, and the lights are actually sitting in the boot, boxed up. We're just waiting for the grill to come in so we can drive almost 3 hours each way to get them installed.

I can't complain too much, though. The order was placed on Nov. 2, and the car was at the dealer to be picked on December 4. That's some kind of turnaround.

 

We just picked up a 2011 on Nov 28th and our dealer was able to install the driving lights on the car. However, we are still wating on the interior switch (which our dealer said was on backorder). I didn't see that as an issue preventing them from mounting the lights & wiring. I just have to bring the car to ave the switch added when the part is in stock. Perhaps this is something specific to the stock at your dealer?

 

Yeah, your car sure looks like a 2011 with driving lights installed to me.

Our MA didn't talk as though it was a dealer-specific issue. He said that, because of the new 2011 bumper, MINI had re-designed the "adapter grill", as he called it, that they use with the driving lights. He said that the new one wouldn't even be available for him to order until Dec. 23. I guess they used a magic grill on your car, huh?

 

I doubt its a magic grill

Just adds to the expense IMHO

Im sure you can cut the slots out yourself as with pre facelift versions

 

I know you probably wanted to have the car delivered complete - as ordered. There is a bright side...3 hours each way = a good day trip. Good luck and post some pics when you get it just the way you want it.

 

I called ASK-MINI to double check, and yes, they are saying the grill is different, but couldn't tell me how. I've certainly gotten the distinct impression that my dealer doesn't deal with driving lights very often. I'm really curious, though, as to what JAG's dealer did in his case.

As for the 6 hours of driving, yeah, theory that'll be a nice drive. But with the weather we've been having, it might turn into another Adventure in Winterland. On the day we picked up the car, I spent half the drive back in 25 mph traffic. Typical, the car comes in the same day that we get back-to back-to-back days of snow.