Mini of SF was okay but I didn't use the free loaner until my last visit of warranteed service. I also only got one oil change and three visits so now I need to find out about cheaper alternatives to the dealer.
I'll wait to start a new thread to see if anybody can give me some links to other threads on this subject.

 

I know this smacks of the grass is greener, but I hold out high hopes for MINI of Marin, the Penske operation going into the old Marin Honda lot in Corte Madera. They are expecting to open in March.

 

My experience:

Buying a NEW mini? Mini of Concord (YMMV)
All service related needs? East Bay Mini, hands down.

 

I got my Countryman at Stevenscreek Mini in San Jose on Stevescreek blvd. (It used to be Mountain View Mini) So far they've been pretty good. I have stripes and at first they wanted $300 to install boot/bonnet stripes but after talking with the Manager I am now getting those stripes plus side striped installed along with another permacoat for $350. They'll also do a oil/filter change for $50. I'll get a loaner car to get back to work too.

 

Have to admit, was not a fan of Stevens Creek Mini. Very pretentious, somewhat cocky. No negotiation on the price of the mini or the trade it. Their attitude seemed 'we dont care if you buy the car or not'. Went to East Bay Mini and had a much better experience, bought the car there

 

That was their attitude when they were Mountain View MINI. They were only a couple of miles from home then so it made sense to shop there.

 

Got my 2011 Clubbie at Concord & was very pleased. I live in Fresno & they actually had someone drive it down the next day since I had driven another car up there. One month later I had an electrical problem that resulted in a loaner for several weeks while they were trying to figure it out. Daily calls from service with updates. Kind of a drag because I was excited to drive my own car, but it was all good. To take some time off of my drive, I recently had a thermostat replaced at East Bay & the service was great as well. Rumor has it Fresno is getting a dealership soon. Five minutes away vs a lost day from work will be excellent. What am I saying...a day off from work is excellent!

 

MINI of San Francisco

My daughter bought her late model 2007 off the lot. She used it to commute, but changed her job and can now walk. She found the dealer responsive and had no problems.

I have the car, now. I drove it from SF to Detroit (3 days @ 800 miles per), again no problems (43mpg at freeway speeds ). It was evaluated, here, by people who know the MINI and I was told it had no material issues, so...

I just drive and enjoy it.

 

We just bought our Cooper S at Stevens Creek.Living south of Gilroy,this was the closest dealer.The sales person was very nice and patient.
We were able to negotiate on the purchase and trade.

Have not delt with the service dept. yet.