HTTR1016

One follow-up, clutch disc was replaced at 49,000 miles according the vehicle history report.

Thanks for the reply! My Mini has approx 131,000 miles. I checked the oil levels, before I took off this morning, on a cold engine, level ground. Oil level was between the hashes on the dip stick, closer to the top hash (full). Just had the oil changed when it was in for service this past week. Unfortunately, I did not think to check the oil again after the car started having problems or when I dropped it off at the shop. I will keep that in mind for next time. Thanks!

I purchased an 08 Mini Cooper S about 3 weeks ago. I had a PPI done and just got the car out of the shop last week to address the known oil leaks and change out the drive belt. Took the car out for her first major road trip (10 hrs to Michigan) and after 3 hours into the drive, somewhere in PA, on a steep uphill highway, the check engine light came on, car lost engine power rapidly despite downshifting, and I had to limp it to the shoulder. After shutting down the engine and letting it rest for about 10 mins, engine turned back on without problem, but now had a noticeable rough idle (shudder), seemed to have decreased power in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear, very difficult to find engagement point in 1st gear, and noticeable shudder when going through 1st through 3rd gear. Also, putting the engine under load in 1st through 3rd gears (over 2500 RPM) would make the check engine light blink, and tach needle appeared slightly erratic.Was able to limp it back home because I was in the middle of nowhere (probably not the best for the car, but had to make a decision) and dropped it off at my normal Mini shop. I'm sure they'll diagnose pretty quick, but I'd love to hear what the community thinks is the issue. This is my first Mini, so I'm learning as I go.Thanks!

Thanks for the info. Does anyone have recommendations on solid independent mechanics that specialize in work on Mini's at a good price in the northern VA area?

Thanks for the input. I agree, that is at the top of the list.

Hello All, I became a first time MINI owner yesterday, purchasing a 2008 MINI Cooper S (Blue)! I was lucky enough to find a relatively clean MINI in Pennsylvani and had the joy of driving 3 hours back to northern VA yesterday with the car...probaby the most fun drive I have had. I am not new to European cars, also owning a BMW E30 and E90 and did get a PPI on the MINI. During the PPI, done at a MINI dealership, the following were identified as needing replacing/ fixed. If you were in my shoes, how woud your prioritize the repairs and level of severity of the issue? As the Dealership explained, they did not feel there were any show stopper or abnormal issues, as most of the issues amounted to oil leaks. In general, how concerned should I be about hunting after oil leaks and getting them addressed? Dealership recommended just keeping an eye on the oil and maitaining the levels when needed. What do you think? - Serpentine Belt Cracked/ Worn - Oil Leaks (Replace Valve Cover Gasket, Oil Pan Gasket, Crankshaft Sensor Seal, Engine Oil Filter Housing Gasket, Vaccum Pump O-Ring) - Replace Transmission Right Axle Seal - Replace Front Brake Pad Wear Sensor Happy to be part of the MINI community and looking forward to taking part in future DC Metro MINI events! Thanks!