When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
The Warranty act does say you can't require specific BRANDED (MOBIL1 oil, MANN filters...etc...), fluids and parts, it doesn't mention anything about the SPECIFICATIONS those fluids and parts have to meet. They clearly do list what specification the fluids should meet. (like the oil must meet BMW LL01?)...
Using parts and fluids that do not meet spec, will allow them to refuse to cover a warranty claim on the effected system if they choose... (not saying they will)
<snip>
I figure with my BMW CCA discount, a gallon of BMW coolant cost me about $15+ tax, a gallon of distilled water is about $1 in the grocery store. BIG WHOOP! That's nothing in the grand scheme of track bikes, race cars, golf, and strip clubs....lol
This 1000X! Thank you!
I warn people about coolant.. because of its color.. it is the EASIEST thing for OEMs to deny when there is an engine problem. Plus, again, its not overly expensive to use the right stuff.. I feel like if you wanted to skimp on coolant you'd be talking about a 1994 Ford Tempo or something on its last legs.. not a clean proper running car with only 40~50K.
Coolant's are one of the biggest headaches for dealers right now because the public has too many uninformed choices to make which leads to mixing, improper flushing (incomplete).
Sure, I could go to the dollar store and buy SA rated oil and run it in my car.. is the part of MM act? No it is not. I'm just not required to go to Mini and buy their oil.. but I can use Mobil 1 0W40..
Do I have to buy Mini brand coolant or even BASF coolant? No I don't but I have to buy a G48 rated coolant from Pentosin.
Oh say, there is yet another easy to get aftermarket brand.. that meets specs...
This is a classic case of either cognitive bias or cognitive impairment; it's always interesting to read commentaries blindly defending OEM products. If I didn't know better, I would believe it was brand snobbery.
I don't need to prove that Prestone or Redline or Amsoil or Mobil 1 or whatever product you want to discuss meets BMW's OEM specs. Call the product manufacturer, and confirm with them. I regularly call manufacturers; try it, it may free you from your OEM bonds.
Again, I've heard the same drivel regarding synthetic oils, gear lubes, brake fluids (you pick) over the past 40+ years "if you don't use XXX, your engine (or transmission, etc.) will fail." Sorry, but that is total BS.
The back of the Prestone Extended Life states the following"
"...silicate, phosphate, borate, and nitrate free."
I called Prestone to confirm that it meets BMW's specs; I received a phone message the next day. I then called back, and discussed at length regarding how Prestone meets BMW's OEM specs.
Here's the number: (800) 890-2075.
I'm not defending Prestone because I believe all their products are superior or even meet OEM specs, but the Extended Life meets BMW's OEM specs according to the company. If someone chooses to continue to use the BMW coolant, that's fine. I'm not criticizing anyone's use of a particular product if the choice is based on facts.
You are obviously knowledgeable regarding automobile issues, and I appreciate your feedback.
After reading this whole thread it appears as if there is no clear cut decision on the use of OEM vs Prestone. For those of us not near a dealer to buy OEM, the shipping of a couple gallons brings the total up quite a bit. It is still probably the best choice though.
New on forum, reading through this relatively old thread sure is interesting to me ...
Last week bought a 2009 MC Base with 21K miles on it, will be changing antifreeze soon. Was changed twice in past years with what looks like probably OE antifreeze (because of color match and done at Mini).
After reading countless threads in various forums the advice that danjreed gives makes good sense to me. Getting the right coolant fluid that meets specs for compatibility with the mini-alloy engine, radiator, pumps and gaskets etc. was my primary goal.
danjreed listed a few options in solid targeted coolants that leave no doubt the formulation is designed specifically for mini configuration an not as a generic will work in about anything type coolant. I like to think it deserves special treatment, it has been spoiled!
Thank you danjreed for pointing out the option of going with Pentosin and the URL http://www.pentosin.net/f_antifreeze.asp
Like how this shows their eight flavors of coolant, including one (NF Blue) that is targeted to BMW/MINI. And also describes the formulation of each and lists specific vehicles and years each flavor is designed for. Available at Advance Auto, etc. There was another thread that mentioned this may even be made by same company that provides it for Mini Factory.
Looks like I am going with either Pentosin NF -or- the black jug from Mini mixed 50/50 with distilled water. And thanks to this forum I did locate the plastic bleeder valve at the thermostat housing - and warning not to turn it out more than 3 turns, ha ha.
Homemade wooden plank step ramps work perfectly on the Mini - originally built for my 2014 Camaro ... turns out the Mini tires are almost as wide! Ramp will ease access to the lower hose coupling for draining.
Following are a couple of pics of coolant tank (tank is spotless and trying to keep it that way).
Mini coolant is listed as lifetime, owners manual says only needs to be replaced when doing repairs to coolant system. However, I like to over-maintain on both vehicles. Having a non-turbo and non-supercharger version sure makes it easy working in the engine bay.
Ron
