Confused About Oil / Service Intervals On My MCS - MINI Cooper Forum

kshapiro · #1 (**permalink**) Apr 8th, 2003, 07:28 AM

I had my first oil change today at 9,991 miles. My oil change indicator said I had another 1,750 miles to go, because of my driving style.

Anyway, in driving away, it now says I have 15,750 miles to go before my service maintenance. In looking at my manual, that seems to be service interval 1, which also means my next oil change.

Does this mean that due to my driving habits, I do NOT get oil changes every 10,000 miles? Because at this rate I'll only get one more free oil change (at approx 27,000 miles) in the 36 month / 36,000 mile "free" period.

What's your read on this?

kshapiro · #2 (**permalink**) Apr 8th, 2003, 07:47 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by obehave
First change at 10K next at 25K is the norm.

I haven't and won't wait that long.

So, if I want to change it again at 20,000 miles I'll be paying the bill?

blake · #3 (**permalink**) Apr 8th, 2003, 08:26 AM

I find it odd how people do not trust new technology. Take synthetic oils, it seems many people just do not "trust" them to last longer. Note: you pay more for the research and "ingredients" that make the lubricant last longer.

tip · #4 (**permalink**) Apr 8th, 2003, 08:56 AM

You can change as frequently as you like off the recommended time. You will just have to pay for it.

blake · #5 (**permalink**) Apr 8th, 2003, 09:07 AM

Obehave,
Being an Engineer, I just trust other Engineers, but, heh, I would like to know the results of your analysis.

BTW, I just installed the BMP Intake and plan on ordering the MagnaFlow exhaust. Any regrets/kudos/suggestions on your set-up?

minibzngby · #6 (**permalink**) Apr 9th, 2003, 04:08 AM

Gents: I also subscribe to the principle that extra lubrication never hurts. The cost of an oil change (especially if you can do it yourself) is so very low compared to what can happen... especially when we all like to explore the more "alto" regime of our Coopers RPM's.
I also just did the first "official" service at about 10,500 and my "official" electronic-sensor-guided virtual engine genie says to go see the dealer in another 15K. Which I will do, since they also happen to have an excellent lounge with web-ready PC's, but I will also change oil/filter at every 5K miles, using synthetic oil. Incidentally, there is an excellent procedure with photos in these Forums - just run the right search.