Here is a photo of a MINI undergoing AC condenser replacement. The tech was in the process of taking out the big light colored aluminum piece when I snapped this photo.



Scary isn't it? That's a lot of labor to replace it. The same process is used to replace the blower motor also.

 

Holy crap. I'd be prepared for a few new rattles after that

How much did that end up costing??

 

Unbelievable! Don't worry about rattles, in fact, the tech will probably put it better together than the factory. There is a number of common rattle fix kits/procedures (felt tape) they install regularly that they probably will install as they put it back together.


Notice the CAS (car access system) module (black box) where the tach/steering wheel. That module controls the FOB (rear windows in the R57) and the security system.

 

I don't know how much it cost - hopefully for the owner it is a warranty repair.

I just know AC work in general is really expensive and that pic shows why.

 

wow... I didn't realize that took so much work!

I wouldn't want to pay that bill!!!

 

That is unreal.
It is really sinking in that there is just no way to keep these cars long term.

I'm not saying I would not get another one mind you.
I'm simply saying there is just nothing to do for a Big Fix (out of warranty)
other than to put it into the back yard.

 

almost all cars have to have the dash removed to replace the condenser or blower fan.. It is not at all unique to MINIs.

 

It really depends on how the dash is engineered. The VW MKIV platform is setup so that the blower is replaced by removing the lower panels and glove box on the passenger side. The condenser is removed on the same side but with removing the center console as well. The whole dash does not need to be removed.

The MKV and MKVI platforms are the same way. Saves time and repair costs.

 

On the other hand, the heater core is pretty easy to replace on a MINI,
but a huge dissassembly for a (Mk3) VW.

 

Looks bad but I bet a good tech does it pretty quickly. Saying that I would be worried about my interior getting dinged up....

 

Yep its really a pain in the neck.