just heard back from mini, they are going to supply a new wheel FOC but i'll have to pay for fitting, *** that i'll fit it myself!!

Venox22, was your car outside warranty? By how much?
I have the scruffy peeled wheel problem and the dealer tells me it's approx £500 for a new one fitted. (I don't see why I can't use my existing air bag module either?)

Its not just Minis - BMW 5 series

mines a 52 plate, so nearly 8 months out of warranty

Mention this thread to them, then ask them to ask BMW in germany for a goodwill warranty claim