New owner-used MINI

[rockologist]

So, I picked up a 2003 last week with 38k miles on it. I purchased it from a dealer, and ran the requisite checks on it and everything came up clean. However, I couldn't get much service info on it. So far, everything seems good, I had certain things chcked for.
Now, I have a few questions.
1) Does the mechanic (or delership) have to reset the computer after an oil change? mine is showing that i'm a few thousand miles overdue, yet the dealership I bought it from says they did an oil change before I took it, and I've checked the levels, which are good -the oil looks clean as well.
I like the idea of the service indicators, so is there any way to reset this without having the dealership do it? Anyone here get theirs done outside the dealeraship? How do you keep track of when to do it- I know it's not advised to do one every 3,000 miles, like Jiffy Lube or someone will advise.
2) My coolant level is low. I've read that there is recommended MINI coolant. I'm not near a dealer, is there somewhere I can order it? Also, does it need to be flushed, or is it fine just to top off?
Thanks. It's been great to find this forum.

[Paul]

Hello.



Try here: How to reset the service interval indicator

But be confident the work has really been done first!

Not sure off the top of my head about recommended coolant, but in the manual I think it would say the spec.

Sorry I can only be half helpful!

[rockologist]

Thanks, every little bit helps.
Also, I have another question. This one might be silly. With the onboard computer / GPS, where would I find an engine temperature guage? I looked on the tachometer, but nothing. Am I stuck without one, or just an indicator light when its running too hot? That would be kind of a bummer.

[Paul]

Someone will know for sure, but I'm pretty certain with the Sat Nav you get a light only.

[MINIAC]

Quote: Originally Posted by rockologist (original)

So, I picked up a 2003 last week with 38k miles on it. I purchased it from a dealer, and ran the requisite checks on it and everything came up clean. However, I couldn't get much service info on it. So far, everything seems good, I had certain things chcked for.

After an Oil Change Service at around 10K the MINI is supposed to have an Inspection Service (which includes an oil change) at 15K intervals. A MINI dealer should be able to tell you if and when these were done.

MINI's use full synthetic oil so the oil doesn't need to be changed every 3K. If you don't put many miles on your MINI the oil should be changed at least every 2 years.

Brake fluid should be changed at 2 year intervals.

Coolant should be flushed at 4 year intervals.