Hey folks,

I have a 2009 MINI Cooper S with 48000~ miles on it. Recently I just got a check engine light while bringing it into dealership for oil change service. According to the dealership, the check engine light is due to carbon build up. They suggest cleaning it and software reprogramming.

My question is, is the dealership the only one to be able to clean and update the software programming? or can I bring it to an independent mechanic?

Dealership is quoting like $1500

 

You should be able to bring it to a independent shop for the carbon cleaning. But software updating im sure is going to be a dealer only type thing. I would ask your dealership if the $1500 is the best as they can do. That seems high to me. The highest ive seen has been $800. Lowest has been around the $400-$500. Good luck!

 

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thanks guys. I'm going to call around to a couple other dealership/mechanics and get a quote.

 

And just what code gets thrown due to carbon buildup?

 

not sure what was the error code. dealership did not mention it.

 

You can do it yourself if your able or get a shop who knows how to do it. The update will have to be done by a MINI dealership.

There is a good thread here with the factory tools.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-cleaning.html

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/81292208038/ES2166079/



&

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/81292208032/



Thanks