So I have ordered a 2014 Clubman S and started poring through the forums. Seems like the Minis can have quite a few issues over the years especially wit the earlier gen 2 automatic transmissions. I wanted to ask if there are still any issues with the transmissions that are the same as I would be getting in my 2014? I'm not too keen on the "lifetime" oil and filter and I'd like to see how the current trans is holding up so far.

I only got the auto so the wife could also drive the car and if I can expect more significant issues with it vs the manual trans then I'd like to find out now before the config gets locked in.

 

I have a 2010 Clubman S and love it, although it only has 15k miles on it so far I think the autotrans is fine, i love using the paddle shifters

 

I'd suggest doing a preventative trans fluid change every 40K or so. Much cheaper than transmission swaps. We have 50K on an automagic trans Cooper with zero issues.

 

I have 134,800 miles on a 2011 mcs with auto. At 90 k miles I changed to redline d4, every year I drain and fill from below, typically 2 x 2 quarts ea fill (meaning I drain what is in the pan, then fill with 2 quarts and then drive for a week and then do it again)

I would like to hear from somebody who can speak knowledgeably about the best transmission fluid for the mini. The aisin trans has been great.

 

I do a 2.x quart drain and fill with royal purple every 10-15k (every other oil change) so that the fluid is mostly changed before they seem to fail at ~80k (with no changes).

 

My 2008 has 90 k miles, and I've done a partial drain-and-fill once year since about 50 k miles. I use Toyota auto trans fluid that is "equivalent" and 1/3 the price of MINI fluid. My Aisn tranny is still like new as far as I can tell.