Mini  

Maintenance/Service

Since BMW took over in 2000 the Minis saw BMW maintenance style implementation, with the early models having similar "Inspection I" and "Inspection II" service interval (minor and major service), while the 2005 newer body style Minis received the corresponding CBS (Condition Based System), where the on board computer determines the service requirements based on driving habits. The service needs of a vehicle driven under severe conditions are different than the average driven vehicle. 

BMW/Mini regard "severe conditions" those such as stop and go traffic, extreme temperatures, frequent/short trips, dusty/muddy conditions, high altitude. Low mileage vehicles should be serviced at least once a year according to BMW/Mini.

"The next service due"  appears with the message OIL SERVICE or INSPECTION, together with the remaining distance before scheduled service. The computer bases its calculations of the remaining distance on the rate of fuel consumption in the period immediately preceding your data request.

 A flashing message and a "-" in front of the number mean that the service interval has already been exceeded by the distance shown on the display.

 
                                          Oil and filter change


I am making a special notice about oil and filter change for Minis. While you can get away with questionable oil and filters on a different brand, Minis are very sensitive to oil quality. We see perfectly running Minis with 200,000-300,000km on the clock but all too often costly repairs could be avoided by simply using high quality oil and filters. 

No other European engines in our experience is more affected by oil quality than Minis. From stretched timing chains, to burnt out exhaust valves, high oil consumption, misfires and many other issues are a result of poor maintenance. Either oil is changed too infrequently or cheap, inadequate oils and filters are being used.

Just because an oil is synthetic doesn't make it suitable for your Mini engine. BMW/Mini and all other European car manufacturers will test and certify oils and they have to meet very high standards. Always look for the BMW/Mini certification on the oil bottle if you're a DIY-er.