i'm in SD also.. where did you get that done?

 

I haven't had it done, I just did some quick Google research. It sounds like an intriguing idea though, and I would like to find out how much it costs. Maybe I'll call around tomorrow. I copied and pasted the info I posted off of this website. When I find out more/get it done, I'll add info here. If you do it before I do, please pass on the info as well.

 

will do... i just got my windows tinted last week, i'll ask my tinter and drop ya some info if he saids anything worthy...

 

I called today to get some information on the windshield protection film. The guy I talked to was very forthcoming and wanted to point out the limitations of the product. It is guaranteed for a year or 12k miles; unfortunately, a year is about as long as it lasts on a vehicle parked outside, and slightly longer for garaged/covered cars. He guessed for a MINI the total cost would be around $200-225 or so. When factoring in the cost of a new windshield, insurance deductibles and so on, it obviously isn't going to be a solution for everyone. Knowing this, and what my situation is with my insurance coverage, I am going to pass. I've had one little chip in 10k miles and it was taken care of to my satisfaction, so I'll take my chances without the protective film. Maybe some day there will be a longer-lasting, cheaper alternative.

 

i feel exaclty the same... cost me about 50 to get the chip filled and i was happy with that... thanks for the info though...

 

Ah, "the first couple of times"... Yes, mini windshields will chip/crack a lot. In the 2 years I owned an early '07 MCS, I had 3 chips that I caught quick enough (at $20 each, out-of-pocket expense) but then a freak falling walnut from a tree over the road shattered the right side of the windshield. I drive a different car now on the same routes and in almost two years have not had a chip yet. My two cars before the MCS NEVER had chips (a Ford Escort and a Saturn SL2) in 12 years.
That, combined with 4 other annoying problems that shouldn't have existed in the first place and the muffler recall, helped me decide that I was not going to hold on to that car and definitely not buying another Mini product.
YMMV, but your windshield wont.

 

Quote" Ah, "the first couple of times"... Yes, mini windshields will chip/crack a lot. In the 2 years I owned an early '07 MCS, I had 3 chips that I caught quick enough (at $20 each, out-of-pocket expense) but then a freak falling walnut from a tree over the road shattered the right side of the windshield. I drive a different car now on the same routes and in almost two years have not had a chip yet. My two cars before the MCS NEVER had chips (a Ford Escort and a Saturn SL2) in 12 years.
That, combined with 4 other annoying problems that shouldn't have existed in the first place and the muffler recall, helped me decide that I was not going to hold on to that car and definitely not buying another Mini product.
YMMV, but your windshield wont"

I am now in my 11 month of ownership and, as I have read many, many threads from both old pros and novices, like me, I think what we have in these newer generation MINIs is a marketing strategy by BMW/MINI to convince us that all of these types of issues, brakes, soft rotors, windshields that dent/scratch & break easily, other mechanical matters, etc are all a part of the ownership experience. But, my sense is that many folk's patience is being tested and, second thoughts are constantly on our minds about what to do...i.e. stay with MINI or reconsider. I really like my Clubby, but I did not purchase it to be confronted with chip windshields (mine had 2 within the first 2 months) and the myraid of other issues, real or perceived. I remain open, hopeful, and the jury is still out but, in time, the proof is in the pudding.

 

Quote:

I am now in my 11 month of ownership and, as I have read many, many threads from both old pros and novices, like me, I think what we have in these newer generation MINIs is a marketing strategy by BMW/MINI to convince us that all of these types of issues, brakes, soft rotors, windshields that dent/scratch & break easily, other mechanical matters, etc are all a part of the ownership experience. But, my sense is that many folk's patience is being tested and, second thoughts are constantly on our minds about what to do...i.e. stay with MINI or reconsider. I really like my Clubby, but I did not purchase it to be confronted with chip windshields (mine had 2 within the first 2 months) and the myraid of other issues, real or perceived. I remain open, hopeful, and the jury is still out but, in time, the proof is in the pudding.

This is very, very well said. I see a lot of these excuses on this forum, too, about "the MINI ownership experience". It's nonsense to me. This car should be up to par in every way that modern cars are. This includes windshields (two friends of mine have that Scion milk truck thing that has a steeper windshield incline than the MINI, for over 3 years each, and they say that they both have never had problems with chipping), the things you mentioned, rattles/noises, non-lasting parts like the clutch (for many people, according to my Service Manager!), etc.

 

I just noticed a chip yesterday on Little Wing's 3rd windshield.
I bought her in August 09 and she only has 9K miles.
So far it looks like a new windshield every 3K miles?
Something's not right...

 

I'm at 12k on windsheild number 3 as well

 

i'm deathly afraid of someone messing up new windshield install. who did you use in the nyc area if you don't mind me asking.

 

I used Safelite, last time that'll happen. Recently used coast to coast auto glass and was very happy.