Mini Coopers are known for having great gas mileage and being super fun to drive! They’re also less maintenance-intense than other vehicles and hold their resale value. However, that doesn’t mean that you can neglect your vehicle completely.
With proper care, your Mini will give you plenty of enjoyment for many years to come. Check out these basic maintenance tips that will help keep your Mini running like a marvelous machine!
Monitor your CBS
Keeping up with your Mini Cooper maintenance is easier than ever, thanks to the advanced monitoring system, called Condition Based Service (CBS), that’s found in most of the newer Minis. This series of sensors monitor everything from oil, coolant, and fluids to brake pads and other wear-and-tear issues.
When a problem is detected, the display will tell you exactly what needs to be done and how soon it needs to happen. Paying attention to these messages and following the instructions will help keep your Mini in tip-top shape.
Follow the Recommended Maintenance Schedule
It’s recommended that most Minis undergo maintenance at least every 10,000 miles. Almost all of these vehicles have a service interval display that’s located on the car’s speedometer. This will let you know what service is needed and how many miles you have until it’s due.
Usually, the schedule is an oil change, inspection 1, then another oil change, and inspection 2. This will continue to rotate throughout the life of the vehicle. Inspection 1 is a minor service while inspection 2 includes an oil change, everything that’s done in inspection 1, and additional services like flushing the brake fluid and changing the engine coolant. Since some Minis have different maintenance schedules, it’s best to read your manual and/or consult with a mechanic to determine what kind of maintenance your vehicle needs.
Use the Right Fuel
Using the wrong type of fuel can wreak havoc on your Mini Cooper. Check the backside of your fuel door to confirm the recommendations. Most Minis require a minimum of 91 octane fuel. If that’s not available, opt for 93 octane instead.
Heed Warning Signs
You know your Mini better than anyone. If you notice that it starts making a strange noise or emitting a funny smell, don’t ignore it. Remember that technology isn’t always foolproof, so even if your car isn’t telling you something is wrong, trust your instincts. Acting quickly can often save you money by catching and repairing small issues before they can turn into major problems.
Keep Up with Washing and Waxing
If you want to maintain your Mini’s resale value, you’ll need to keep it looking as beautiful as possible. Washing your car regularly will remove dirt, oil, and grime that can damage your paint. Waxing after you wash the car offers many benefits including buffing out small surface scratches and giving your car a like-new shine. Not only will it look great, but you’ll feel great driving it.
Only Use Qualified Technicians
Since Mini Coopers are top-notch German driving machines, you won’t want to trust them to just anyone. Finding a great independent repair shop (like The Haus) will give you the peace of mind in knowing your vehicle is being repaired by a certified technician without having to deal with the hassle of going to a dealership.
Is your Mini due for some maintenance? We can help! Give us a call at 310-299-7693 or use our convenient online form to request an appointment