The Mini says it needs service...but what service? The owner's manual seems to indicate that you can use the onboard computer to determine what service is required, but the information available doesn't match what the manual claims is available. The only things available through the onboard computer is to set the date and time. Is there a way to determine what service the CBS is saying is required?

 

The procedure is in the manual SERVICE REQUIREMENTS section page 53-54 (PDF version). (The printed version page # may be off by a page or 2)
Be sure to follow the instructions exactly..... especially step 1 were it says to turn the ignition on.

 

You are using the "wrong" buttons and "instructions" the manuals are very good at giving directions on how to see what is up if you use the correct instructions.

Well that is if your manual has all the pages. I have seen manuals that are missing complete sections.

 

Yep, that's the part I missed - had the key in, but engine wasn't running. It says I need brake fluid service. I thought they did that when I had it in to replace the water pump - maybe they forgot to reset it?

 

Brake fluid would be unrelated to the water pump recall.

 

With a 2008, I think you are probably outside the included maintenance program. So you would have to instruct them and pay for the brake fluid flush.

 

It goes something like this:

Oil change 1 year or CBS (CBS does not get reset at 1 year).
Brake fluid 2 years or CBS
Micro filter 2 years
Air filter 2 years or every 2nd oil change or CBS
Tires 6 years
Spark plugs 60K
Auto tranny sevice 100K
Oxygen sensor 120K
Coolant N/S ("Long-term rated. Change at system repairs ony").
V-belt N/S
Fuel filter N/S
Power steering fluid N/S