"Those waiting for a 2014" Support Group
#976
10-08-2013, 01:32 PM
Yes!
No idea when my Clubman S will arrive at dealership. My MA habitually uses terms like "soon". He's so vague about everything I wonder if he's been sued or beat up for providing more specific estimates that didn't pan out in the past. 
He would commit to a Saturday 12 Oct pickup so it must be there already...?
I'll check for the heat shield. Mine is an S so has the scoop. I'll probably install it if it's not there. Assuming it's not hot enough to burn you other wise it would be a safety issue but seems like in addition to warping it could affect the paint over the long term and the durability of any wax/coatings applied.
Don't like the description of the heat shield kit posted earlier. Expanding Clips = Rattle
Mini Purchase Process:
Web Configurator = Buncha cool stuff I can't afford
Test Drive = Ok, I want one.
MA = Factory trained to agree with your opinion about every option (yea, Nav sucks and you can use your smart phone)
Price = You might be able to negotiate some discount if you're buying one off the lot. Not so much when you're ordering to your spec.
On Order = Buyers remorse. OMG what did I just spend for a skateboard?
Scheduled for production = Ok good. It's almost over.
After a week = Are there really that many orders ahead of mine?
After 2 weeks = Why does it take so long to put one together? Isn't that what they do there? Did my order get lost? Is there a parts shortage? Are the workers on strike?
Awaiting Transport = Ok good. It's almost over.
After a week = Guess they're letting the paint dry really well before shipping.
After 2 weeks = When did it get to the dock? What ship is scheduled next? Did mine make it on that one? Is it on WW or Kline? I put the VIN in the Cargo ID block and it says not found.
Aboard Ship = MA gives you ship name. You can see it steaming away from port. Ok good. It's almost over
After a week = Lost in the N. Atlantic. You learn that AIS receivers have limited range. They can't see past ~50 miles offshore. Isn't that where the Titanic went down?
After 2 weeks = Spotted off the East coast of the US. Ok good. It's almost over. Wait, it has to make 3 stops before it gets to the port where it will unload my Mini.
At the VDC = Ok, good. It's almost over.
After a week = Should have only taken 3-4 days. Longer must mean there is a problem. Was it damaged in shipment? Are they trying to install options the factory missed?
On the truck = Ok, good. It's almost over. MA confirmed it is loaded and has departed VDC.
After 3 days = What route did it take? How many stops did it have to make? Did they mistakenly leave my car at another dealership? I could have driven to the VDC and back 3 times already.
Arrival at dealership = ? No idea, I haven't gotten this far yet.
He would commit to a Saturday 12 Oct pickup so it must be there already...?
I'll check for the heat shield. Mine is an S so has the scoop. I'll probably install it if it's not there. Assuming it's not hot enough to burn you other wise it would be a safety issue but seems like in addition to warping it could affect the paint over the long term and the durability of any wax/coatings applied.
Don't like the description of the heat shield kit posted earlier. Expanding Clips = Rattle
Mini Purchase Process:
Web Configurator = Buncha cool stuff I can't afford
Test Drive = Ok, I want one.
MA = Factory trained to agree with your opinion about every option (yea, Nav sucks and you can use your smart phone)
Price = You might be able to negotiate some discount if you're buying one off the lot. Not so much when you're ordering to your spec.
On Order = Buyers remorse. OMG what did I just spend for a skateboard?
Scheduled for production = Ok good. It's almost over.
After a week = Are there really that many orders ahead of mine?
After 2 weeks = Why does it take so long to put one together? Isn't that what they do there? Did my order get lost? Is there a parts shortage? Are the workers on strike?
Awaiting Transport = Ok good. It's almost over.
After a week = Guess they're letting the paint dry really well before shipping.
After 2 weeks = When did it get to the dock? What ship is scheduled next? Did mine make it on that one? Is it on WW or Kline? I put the VIN in the Cargo ID block and it says not found.
Aboard Ship = MA gives you ship name. You can see it steaming away from port. Ok good. It's almost over
After a week = Lost in the N. Atlantic. You learn that AIS receivers have limited range. They can't see past ~50 miles offshore. Isn't that where the Titanic went down?
After 2 weeks = Spotted off the East coast of the US. Ok good. It's almost over. Wait, it has to make 3 stops before it gets to the port where it will unload my Mini.
At the VDC = Ok, good. It's almost over.
After a week = Should have only taken 3-4 days. Longer must mean there is a problem. Was it damaged in shipment? Are they trying to install options the factory missed?
On the truck = Ok, good. It's almost over. MA confirmed it is loaded and has departed VDC.
After 3 days = What route did it take? How many stops did it have to make? Did they mistakenly leave my car at another dealership? I could have driven to the VDC and back 3 times already.
Arrival at dealership = ? No idea, I haven't gotten this far yet.
My wife's Mini rolled off the Don Juan in New York on 10/2. Last week the dealer said we should have it by Saturday. As of this writing (Tuesday afternoon) it's still at the VDC, "being worked on" according to ASK-MINI.
She ordered the Sport Stripe, so I'm hoping that's what they've been working on for the last couple of days, and not a bunch of paintless dent removals from a rough sea journey. Anyone know how long it generally takes to get a car processed through the VDC in NY and loaded onto a truck?
Our dealership is 4 hours from the VDC if they don't make any other stops along the way, so it's conceivable that it could arrive the same day - but based on your post, I won't get my hopes up.
#977
10-08-2013, 02:44 PM
1st Gear
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Oklahoma
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Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
#978
10-08-2013, 03:00 PM
5th Gear
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: Clifton, Virginia
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Attachment 82348
Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
#979
10-08-2013, 03:57 PM
2nd Gear
Attachment 82348
Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
Love the color.. Happy Motoring!
#980
10-08-2013, 03:59 PM
2nd Gear
#981
10-08-2013, 04:00 PM
1st Gear
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Dutchess County, NY
Posts: 39
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This should be mandatory reading for every soon-to-be OCD owner that feels compelled to know exactly where his car is at every moment.
My wife's Mini rolled off the Don Juan in New York on 10/2. Last week the dealer said we should have it by Saturday. As of this writing (Tuesday afternoon) it's still at the VDC, "being worked on" according to ASK-MINI.
She ordered the Sport Stripe, so I'm hoping that's what they've been working on for the last couple of days, and not a bunch of paintless dent removals from a rough sea journey. Anyone know how long it generally takes to get a car processed through the VDC in NY and loaded onto a truck?
Our dealership is 4 hours from the VDC if they don't make any other stops along the way, so it's conceivable that it could arrive the same day - but based on your post, I won't get my hopes up.
My wife's Mini rolled off the Don Juan in New York on 10/2. Last week the dealer said we should have it by Saturday. As of this writing (Tuesday afternoon) it's still at the VDC, "being worked on" according to ASK-MINI.
She ordered the Sport Stripe, so I'm hoping that's what they've been working on for the last couple of days, and not a bunch of paintless dent removals from a rough sea journey. Anyone know how long it generally takes to get a car processed through the VDC in NY and loaded onto a truck?
Our dealership is 4 hours from the VDC if they don't make any other stops along the way, so it's conceivable that it could arrive the same day - but based on your post, I won't get my hopes up.
#982
10-08-2013, 04:03 PM
1st Gear
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Dutchess County, NY
Posts: 39
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#983
10-08-2013, 04:35 PM
2nd Gear
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Missouri
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I spoke to my MA yesterday. Another car that is going to the same dealership that also came in on the same ship was loaded onto a truck yesterday morning. It also had driving lights installed at the VDC. He said he figured mine would be loaded at any time. I check back with him yesterday evening before dealership closing time. Nope, still at the VDC being worked on. Of course, my MA is off today
So now I'm in the phase of what happened to it on that ship I'm hoping to hear tomorrow morning that it was loaded earlier today.
Tampa Dave, John Bull looks awesome! I real stunner ever time I scroll past a pic. I had to have a Countryman due to the kids, and I can't wait. When I see yours, I'm kind of ready for the kids to grow up so I can have a little 2 seater too, lol.
So now I'm in the phase of what happened to it on that ship I'm hoping to hear tomorrow morning that it was loaded earlier today. Tampa Dave, John Bull looks awesome! I real stunner ever time I scroll past a pic.
I had to have a Countryman due to the kids, and I can't wait. When I see yours, I'm kind of ready for the kids to grow up so I can have a little 2 seater too, lol.
#984
10-08-2013, 04:47 PM
5th Gear
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: Clifton, Virginia
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Grumpy and MINIDraftFarm,
Yes indeed, that is John Bull in the driveway. Thank you both for the compliments. My daughters are 22 and 25, college graduates, one of whom is married. Just have to worry about transporting myself and, on occasion, my wife. She has the Jaguar XF, of course, so we're all set. The Roadster is simply amazing to drive, particularly with the top down. And if looks could kill, John Bull would be Jack the Ripper!
Yes indeed, that is John Bull in the driveway. Thank you both for the compliments. My daughters are 22 and 25, college graduates, one of whom is married. Just have to worry about transporting myself and, on occasion, my wife. She has the Jaguar XF, of course, so we're all set. The Roadster is simply amazing to drive, particularly with the top down. And if looks could kill, John Bull would be Jack the Ripper!
#985
10-08-2013, 05:05 PM
2nd Gear
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Boston, MA
Posts: 60
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#986
10-08-2013, 05:12 PM
5th Gear
Join Date: Jun 2013
Location: Clifton, Virginia
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Thanks, banderlin. Looks great in the driveway and even better on the road with the ragtop down. It's hard to be humble. I have my faults, but I can't find any with John Bull.
#987
10-08-2013, 05:15 PM
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Location: Clifton, Virginia
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Pictures , pictures, and more pictures. I thoroughly enjoy looking at photos of great looking MINI's. I swear, no two look alike. Good luck, BobK500!
#988
10-08-2013, 05:45 PM
2nd Gear
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Webster Groves, MO
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Oh believe me-I am nearly quivering in anticipation. First stop after pickup is to get a clear bra installed, and then it's off to motoring with the top down assuming the weather gods are agreeable. Everything else is all lined up-front license plate holder should arrive the day before-and then I can give careful consideration to whatever extras strike my fancy. Not many, since I think the beast is pretty perfect as he is. (Gotta come up with an appropriate name, but nothing has come to mind yet).
#989
10-08-2013, 05:57 PM
I never considered ordering a car to spec before this purchase. It's a nice feeling to get everything you wanted and nothing you didn't. Not sure I'll ever be able to buy one off the lot again.
#990
10-08-2013, 05:59 PM
#991
10-08-2013, 06:04 PM
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#992
10-08-2013, 06:05 PM
Attachment 82348
Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
Here is my boy, arrived this am. Still in diapers. Think I will give him the moniker of the Great Pumpkin. Hope this pic comes through!
My MA did come through. She was awesome. Will pick him up Saturday. Want to have plenty of time to relish the experience. Should be able to operate the clutch by that time. Off of meds and on cloud nine!
My MA would hedge a bet on the sun rising tomorrow..
Once I get F-F, I'll ask about the actual arrival date and see if it matches up with yours.
Enjoy! (& betta pics plz!)
#993
10-08-2013, 06:30 PM
#994
10-08-2013, 07:06 PM
#995
10-08-2013, 07:52 PM
2nd Gear
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: Connecticut
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An informed poster told me that MINI specifically installed the insulators on cars with viper stripes because the engine heat apparently really screwed up the stripes and, in some cases, warped the scoop. I'm probably going to do it anyway, even if I have to eat the cost. I'll work my MA for a deal BEFORE I respond to the survey.
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[FONT=Times New Roman]Who in there right mind would wait for the hood scoop to warp before addressing the issue?[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman]So far no email from the SA.[/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT]
[FONT=Times New Roman][/FONT]
#997
10-08-2013, 08:21 PM
If you drive your MINI moderately hard (i.e. use that turbo), you will generate a great deal of turbo heat that continues after you park (even with the turbo cooler / secondary water pump continuing to run after you shut the car off). Your plastic hood scoop will definitely warp in 2-3 years as mine did in my 2010 Cabrio.
If you don't get the heat insulation (pretty cheap), at least be sure to check your hood scoop and have it replaced under warranty before it expires.
Also for swjtx: Most of any car's plastic parts (interior doors, trim, bumpers, wheel liners, carpeting, etc. are held in place by similar expanding plastic clips...while one may occasionally loosen and rattle, it's the only realistic way to hold the insulation in place and allow it to be removed if necessary.
If you don't get the heat insulation (pretty cheap), at least be sure to check your hood scoop and have it replaced under warranty before it expires.
Also for swjtx: Most of any car's plastic parts (interior doors, trim, bumpers, wheel liners, carpeting, etc. are held in place by similar expanding plastic clips...while one may occasionally loosen and rattle, it's the only realistic way to hold the insulation in place and allow it to be removed if necessary.
#998
10-09-2013, 03:41 AM
This should be mandatory reading for every soon-to-be OCD owner that feels compelled to know exactly where his car is at every moment.
My wife's Mini rolled off the Don Juan in New York on 10/2. Last week the dealer said we should have it by Saturday. As of this writing (Tuesday afternoon) it's still at the VDC, "being worked on" according to ASK-MINI.
She ordered the Sport Stripe, so I'm hoping that's what they've been working on for the last couple of days, and not a bunch of paintless dent removals from a rough sea journey. Anyone know how long it generally takes to get a car processed through the VDC in NY and loaded onto a truck?
Our dealership is 4 hours from the VDC if they don't make any other stops along the way, so it's conceivable that it could arrive the same day - but based on your post, I won't get my hopes up.
My wife's Mini rolled off the Don Juan in New York on 10/2. Last week the dealer said we should have it by Saturday. As of this writing (Tuesday afternoon) it's still at the VDC, "being worked on" according to ASK-MINI.
She ordered the Sport Stripe, so I'm hoping that's what they've been working on for the last couple of days, and not a bunch of paintless dent removals from a rough sea journey. Anyone know how long it generally takes to get a car processed through the VDC in NY and loaded onto a truck?
Our dealership is 4 hours from the VDC if they don't make any other stops along the way, so it's conceivable that it could arrive the same day - but based on your post, I won't get my hopes up.
my wife's brcml4 shared the don juan with yours. we picked it up in white plains last night....... wowie
#999
10-09-2013, 03:47 AM
2nd Gear
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: Connecticut
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If you drive your MINI moderately hard (i.e. use that turbo), you will generate a great deal of turbo heat that continues after you park (even with the turbo cooler / secondary water pump continuing to run after you shut the car off). Your plastic hood scoop will definitely warp in 2-3 years as mine did in my 2010 Cabrio.
If you don't get the heat insulation (pretty cheap), at least be sure to check your hood scoop and have it replaced under warranty before it expires.
Also for swjtx: Most of any car's plastic parts (interior doors, trim, bumpers, wheel liners, carpeting, etc. are held in place by similar expanding plastic clips...while one may occasionally loosen and rattle, it's the only realistic way to hold the insulation in place and allow it to be removed if necessary.
If you don't get the heat insulation (pretty cheap), at least be sure to check your hood scoop and have it replaced under warranty before it expires.
Also for swjtx: Most of any car's plastic parts (interior doors, trim, bumpers, wheel liners, carpeting, etc. are held in place by similar expanding plastic clips...while one may occasionally loosen and rattle, it's the only realistic way to hold the insulation in place and allow it to be removed if necessary.