Like the title says, the clutch in my 2007 (12/06 build) MCS is dead at 34k. I'm getting groaning and significant slippage. After a driving test and external observation, the dealer says it will not be covered under my remaining warranty (I don't have the $1250 they're asking for to tear the car down to confirm they won't warranty it). Looks like I'll be paying out of pocket.

Right now I'm trying to determine the merits of replacing the clutch/flywheel with a MCS OEM, JCW or an OS Giken GT clutch. I don't track the car right now, and I do face some stop and go traffic. I want whichever will supply me with the most longevity (Let me also mention here: I've poured over all the clutch related threads I can find).

• I'm afraid of using the MCS OEM clutch due to my own current experience and the other horror stories I read here and around the net.

• The only reference I've found to using the factory JCW clutch on an MCS mentions the flywheel is required at the same time. I plan to change the flywheel regardless to ensure clutch longevity. Are there any other factors to consider here? Any other differences in the rest of the clutch system (ie master cylinder or other)?

• Finally... the OS Giken GT: as far as I can tell, this company produces the only aftermarket clutches anyone seems to recommend for a MINI. My concern here is the GT clutch only seems to have come out earlier this year. How much longevity can I really expect out of the GT clutch vs. MCS OEM or the JCW? I don't mind sacrificing a little drivability or silence if it means the clutch will indeed last longer. Several vendor sites suggest this clutch is longer lasting (not to mention better performing) than stock. I can't seem to find anyone's reports of real world experience.

So NAM, which is it? What are the merits and pitfalls of each of the choices here?

Looks like the MINI will be living in the garage for the next month or more while I save the money for whatever I choose to do. Also as a side note, I don't rest my foot on the clutch pedal or do any of the other dozen things which will typically wear a clutch prematurely. I did buy the car with 27k on the clock, it is possible the previous owner drove a manual poorly.

Thanks everyone!

TL;DR: Clutch = dead. Should I use OEM MCS, JCW or OS Giken GT as a replacement? Longevity is my biggest concern.

 

Not helpful on the choices but the clutch should be covered under the maintenance plan up to 36k miles, if they don't say it was abused. Maybe try a different dealer.

 

The maintenance plan only covers the first 36k miles OR 3 years, whichever comes first. It won't be covered by MINI.

 

Ahh good call, I forgot some people go out of warranty by time and not miles (I drive 20-30k a year normally).

 

Daily driver? Any mods? First owner or second? (Can make a big differance with dealer/warrenty). How do you rate your own clutch use? For 1250$ to tear it appart, if it is warrenty than free, if not, then add a few hundred more, job done...like playing the lottery...chance of a free clutch job vs $2000, but dealer labout costs make $$, and if 2nd owner or not 100% sure of clutch skills, then skip that step.
If the $$ to tear it appart is an issue, i can say the giken is most likly not much of an option...
If you like the feel of the oem clutch...go oem...lots of stop and go, etc, pretty good feel...aftermarkets do have a diffent feel...can
totly change the nature of the car.
ask waymotorworks about the giken...if i remember right he uses one on his race car, and sells them, but they are very $$$$, but time and time again the oem is the best option gor most unless money is very tight...than a few of the aftermarkets are ok..

but not without risk....

Saw you are the second owner....the the dealership roulete is most likely not the best option...unless you bought it used from them...then you might get lucky...