[maxaroo]

I'm picking up my new MCS on the 1st September and was wondering if there was any advice you had on things I should be checking/asking the dealer.

Thanks.

[supercharged]

The only advice that comes to mind is follow the running-in instructions given in the manual. In my opinion it will help get the most out of the car.

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Quote: Originally Posted by maxaroo

I'm picking up my new MCS on the 1st September and was wondering if there was any advice you had on things I should be checking/asking the dealer.

Thanks.

Be prepared for the fact that you've chosen one of the two worst days of the year to collect your car. Not a huge problem, but expect them to be very busy. For this and other reasons leave yourself plenty of time to collect your car; take the day off work if necessary so that you are not rushed and you can go for a good drive afterwards.

As soon as the car arrives at the dealers check that every item of the specifications is exactly as you ordered it. Did they include all of the extra items that you specified? Find out NOW, not when you go to collect the car.

On the collection day give yourself plenty of time to:

1. Make sure that all the paperwork is in order.
2. Check the bodywork and interior trim for any damage (unlikely, but you don't want to get home and find that there is an oil stain on a seat and then have fun trying to prove who was responsible).
3. Check the oil and fluid levels and that they have put all the filler caps back in place!

When the car has completed its 1,500 mile running in period, get the oil and filter changed. Ignore all protestations that this isn't necessary (it's YOUR engine); the oil will be contaminated with all manner of metal particles from the running in process and you won't want them in the oil for another 8,500 miles.

Oh yes, enjoy your new MINI

Tigger.

[justbob]

Excellent advice so far. I'd also advise you to keep a small notebook and pen in the sidepocket, and then note any irregularities you come across during the run-in process and first 10,000 miles, with date, time, mileage, conditions and a description of the problem--my dealer was more than happy to address every squeak and rattle, real or imagined, that came up--and he actually said "why didn't you call us sooner."

Having a detailed list helped out a lot.

[termigni]

Quote: Originally Posted by Tigger, Eeyore & Roo

When the car has completed its 1,500 mile running in period, get the oil and filter changed. Ignore all protestations that this isn't necessary (it's YOUR engine); the oil will be contaminated with all manner of metal particles from the running in process and you won't want them in the oil for another 8,500 miles.

Is the oil/filter change free of charge at 1,500 miles? or i have to pay?

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Quote: Originally Posted by termigni

Is the oil/filter change free of charge at 1,500 miles? or i have to pay?

No it isn't free, you will have to pay for that one. Again, they will tell you it isn't necessary and as such isn't included within the manufacturer's schedule. Again, it's YOUR engine, not theirs and their interest in the long life of your engine will expire, along with the warranty, at 36 months.

It will cost you about £60 for an oil and filter change at the dealer and I would suggest it's worth every penny, but it's your choice.

Tigger.

[justbob]

Quote: Originally Posted by Tigger, Eeyore & Roo

No it isn't free, you will have to pay for that one. Again, they will tell you it isn't necessary and as such isn't included within the manufacturer's schedule. Again, it's YOUR engine, not theirs and their interest in the long life of your engine will expire, along with the warranty, at 36 months.

It will cost you about £60 for an oil and filter change at the dealer and I would suggest it's worth every penny, but it's your choice.

Tigger.

Yep, I went for this too, had the scheduled change at 10k miles, and then had another "extra" at 20k miles--I had them rotate the tires at 10K and 20K, too, and I've had very even tread wear.