Like everybody else in this forum, I love my MINI. But that love doesn't mean that I can't be seriously disappointed in the service provided my local dealership in San Francisco.

The problems are many, but the solutions always seem to fall short. I brought in my car this morning for service and a smog check, but found out when I went to pick up the car that they "forgot" to do the smog. Woops, their bad, right? Or maybe it's mine?!?

Just come back tomorrow and get it they said. Ah no, I've got a job too. So I finally get them to give me a loaner for the night, but did I really need to beg?

This, after a four day excursion a month ago trying to get my clutch fixed last month. Is it just me, or when you pay a premium for service, don't you at least expect something in return?

It just feels better to vent. Anybody out there feel me?

I live about 2 miles from MINI of SF and have never taken my MCS there. Bought mine from East Bay MINI in Pleasanton and had most of the servicing done there.

Labor rates at MINI dealers in the Bay Area are outrageous, but I've had issues with two independent shops I've tried.

i brought my mini to mini sf for all the warranty work, but now that the warranty is over, i think i'd like to move on. i didn't get the best service at mini sf. would you mind posting the indie mini garages that you've had issues with? i'd like to avoid them if possible.

thanks.

ML MCS,

There are several fine independant MINI shops around the SF Bay Area. Not sure where you are located but may I suggest Bay Bridge Motors in Emeryville, BR Racing in San Jose, GS tuning in Santa Rosa, Northbay Bavarian in Santa Rosa, O2 Motorsports in Redding, Valley Motorwerks in Sacramento, Niello MINI (MINI Dealer) in Sacramento see Hans Dinse, Edge Motorworks, and I know of several others. Check out the Redwood Empire Mini Enthusiasts website for links to many of the local shops.

May be too far for you, but I've been pretty happy with the service department at Niello in Sacramento.

I bought mine from Niello and have never had an issue with their service. But then other than scheduled services, I haven't had any issues at all with my Mini.

hi pooper, thanks. i've over in the berkeley/oakland area. i just made an appt over at H&B BMW/MINI an indie garage. has anyone had any experience w/ them?

i'll have to check out bay bridge motors.