I have a MCS 06 that is no longer under warranty and took it to dealer for 50K service man was I surprised by the cost. Not to mention that they told me I needed to replace a leaking Oil Pan Gasket, Control Arm Bushings and a Wheel Speed Senosr at the tune of $2400. I said the car is still drivable and I will think about this. Any one know of reputable independent MINI mechanics In the Los Angeles area?

 

www.minicorsa.com or www.stevesautoclinic.com

 

Thanks for the 2 names. I contacted Steve and his quote was way way less than the dealer. I will be scheduling an appointment soon with Steve and will let you know what I think.

 

Steve is great and in North Hills (nearby) do my alignent there.

 

I went to Johnny's Auto Clininc in San Pedro, very knowledgable & reasonably priced. I was really impressed with the shop & had a great experience there...

 

Just had Steve replace my control arm bushings, speed sensor, and oil pan gasket and I'm very satisfied by the work. He was knowledgeable and friendly and I will definitely be bringing my car back for future service needs.

 

During our research the above mentioned shops were often recommended by sources on numerous Mini forums. In the event that we too would ever need non dealer service while motoring about, we compiled a list of independent shops nationwide. To date it now stands at over 430 shops of which over 130 are in California. Really says a lot about the Minis popularity on the West Coast. To be fair and honest we can only attest to a listed shop's quality of workmanship from personal experience. We do update the list as we find new additions. Hope this helps.

 

Anyone tried "Miniworx" on Artesia Blvd in Lawndale? It's a lot closer for any of us living by the South Bay beaches (10 minutes instead of an hour to Mini Corsa or Steve's).

I'm tempted to try them for my modded R53 since I'm too busy to work on it myself, but would prefer a shop with a known good rep.

 

I'd like to know as well. This shop is 5 minutes from my house and I need front brakes complete, front lower control arm brushings, and 4 wheel alignment. Southbay Mini quoted me brakes and alignment = $1115 and $1100 for the brushings.

 

A guy at work just had his MCS worked on there. Did an axle, front bushings & ball joints, and a big brake kit. Looks like they did a nice job & he's happy. The price didn't sound bad for the work done.