hi, i have had my mini for about 3 months now and it's time for an oil change. my local dealer wants $110 for the job. that is way too steep for me. i was wondering if there is anything special i should know about before changing the oil myself. any tips/tricks or info are greatly appreciated. thanks.

 

The only thing you really need to know is how to use the "search" function here.
Sorry to be a little harsh, but this topic is discussed many many many times in the past. A quick search will find multiple (100s) answers to all your questions.
If you have any specific questions then pop back for a post to get those answered.

 

It's not hard. Just get the correct filter NAPA or OEM and get the right size socket for the filter housing. I forget the size but it's big. I got mine at sears.

The hard part is getting the filter housing to thread correctly. Just be patient.

 

You will need a shortened 36mm socket for the filter canister. You take off the canister and replace the paper element inside the canister. A little different than most modern cars. Some Mini vendors sell a kit with the filter and short socket.

 

I change my own oil. Wouldn't have it any other way.

As far as searches go. I don't feel the search function works well here on NAM.

Here's what you need.....

https://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4928

 

I agree..............

 

look in the vendor directory for mini car parts; they've got them for 8.00. also have a good idea as to your build date. some filters are different depending on year of car . the earlier ones had a spring of sorts in them (the housing) . be careful when first opening it ;see if you all back the same . don't lose the spring . also get a haynes manual; they're cheap and will help you .