After years of waiting and saving I finally bought a 2002 mini cooper s with 176000 miles (and still does 42 mpg highway). Not only is this my first mini but its my first car too! I know its high miles and pretty old so I was wondering if there is any thing I should do immediately for maintenance? I plan on getting the oil changed asap. Any recommendations for brand of oil?

Thanks

 

You're going to get a ton of answers on what type of oil to use...I'm going to just say to use a synthetic and depending on if you are a "by the book" kind of guy I would say follow the MINI recommended oils. Personally I use Amsoil as my choice for fluids.

It might be a good idea to pay 100 dollars and get it inspected by a qualified mechanic if it hasn't already been done. That should give you a good idea of where to start IF anything needs to be replaced.

Just spend some quality time under the hood and get to know the car...and choose a name while you're at it

 

congrats and welcome to the family. Use a good synthetic

 

You can change the oil by yourself, if you search the threads there is one on a DIY oil change.

There are a lot of things you can do, just to name a few: change fuel filter, cabin air filter, air filter, bushings (front control arms specifically), etc. it all really depends on how the car was maintained by the previous owners.

I would take MisterClean's advice...pay the $100 for a reputable inspection of your car. What part of NY are you in?

Check out this link for shops: http://soopercooperinfo.com/lindaminiinfo.html

 

thanks. Ive also noticed the car tends to steer to the right, especially under braking. Does this indicate any issues? or is it normal (another mini i drove did the same thing)

 

Might just need a front end alignment and tire balance.

 

thanks for the shops list, ive been looking for one nearby. I'm in westchester btw.

 

Let's just say Mobile 1 should be the bare minimum. Most like high quality synthetic oils like Amsoil, Royal Purple or even Red Line oil, but they can be pricey Redline goes for $11-$15 a quart. But there are a few that will recommend the stuff you put in a Dodge Dart.