Why wont the new JCW springs work on a 2004 MC and what mod would be required to make them work?

 

According to an Engineer at JCG I contacted, there is no real problem running the JCW suspension on pre-05 cars. In fact, he said that JCG has fitted the kit to a number of early cars. According to him, there is an issue with contact in the rear at full compression, but it is only minor.

 

thanks for the info

I wonder if local Mini dealers will install them on 04's or if they will refuse do it since my vin will come up as being non compatible.

Since my MC only has the stock suspension and not the SS+, does this impose additional problems and costs when installing the JCW suspension?

 

I'd say the chances are near zero that a dealer would install the kit on a pre-05 car, and less than zero that it would be covered under the factory warranty.

 

I doubt you'll find a MINI dealer that will be willing to do this. Without the VIN they probably won't even sell you the parts.

Without the SS+, you would also need to buy and install the front and rear stabilizer bars.