Hello, I have a 2008 Mini Cooper base with 145,000 miles on it. At highway speeds (4-6 gear) when I push on the throttle, I notice the engine RPMs significantly increase without any car acceleration. Also, occasionally, the cruise control will disengage when this happens. It seems to me that the clutch is slipping at these higher speeds and higher gears.

1. Does this sound like a slipping or wore out clutch?
2. What is an estimated price to replace the clutch?
3. Will the Flywheel also need replaced at the same time?
4. Any recommended independent mechanics in the Memphis, Tennessee area?
5. Any other words of wisdom or experience here?

I really enjoy this car....but it is 7 years old and has 145,000 miles on it. Is it time to cut my losses and let it go?

Thank you for your time.

 

Yep, clutch is shot. Don't know what it costs to replace, but you won't know if you need to replace the flywheel until you get it apart..

 

There are sites (e.g., AutoMD) that will give you an estimate for your specific model in your area, by zipcode. For example, for my '09 it says $1600 - $2000 to replace the clutch disc and pressure plate, flywheel repairs if any, extra.
Another site notes 9.1 hours standard time for the repair; of course labor rates vary hugely.

 

If the MINI is still running good, and makes you happy when you drive it, I would say that you need to find a local independent MINI/BMW shop with a good reputation, and have the clutch service done. I would not recommend a dealer, as thier labor rates are insane. Use lower gears until then, and keep gear changes to a minumum. 145k on a clutch is a good distance! Motor On!

 

Definitely sounds like a slipping clutch. At 145k miles it sounds like you've got a fair bit of use out of the car. Toss another clutch in it and keep driving if nothing else seems to be wrong.

 

Thanks for all the time and information. I decided to drive the car up to Way Motor Works in Atlanta, GA. He is a wealth of knowledge on the Minis and has been really helpful. He said he could replace my R56 clutch, fork, etc for $1400.