Just got my '06 MCSC. I was told that it came with synthetic oil and that is Mini's recommendation. I was also told that there is an engine break-in period of 500 miles. I was then told to bring my Mini in for its first service including first oil change at 10,000 miles. This does not add up. You would have a hard time convincing me of 10,000 mile oil change intervals anyway but for the first change - I don't think I could do that to any car let alone one I like as much as the Mini. I am thinking I will replace that break-in oil at about 1,000 to 1,500 miles. What have you guys done?
PaulO

 

followed the manufacturer's recommended interval.

 

Do whatever allows you to get a full nights sleep. I have voiced my opinion on this before.

 

This has been debated before. A lot of people do an early change and it really doesn't hurt anything as long as you replace it with synthetic. Others just follow the recommended intervals and also don't have any issues. It's cheap, so if it makes you feel better, go for it!

If the 10K change interval bugs you now, just wait until it becomes 15K intervals. Please note that if it's been a full year since your last change, it needs to be changed regardless of mileage. Ultimately, people will get used to 15K changes. Synthetic is vastly superior to regular oil and with better engines, it gets less contaminated. Another example would be wheel bearings. My dad is still not used to the fact that the newer bearings don't need to be greased regularly as they are sealed. Same goes with ball joints! The synthetic oil is just another step in the automotive evolution.

 

I changed the oil and filter myself at 6K miles. It had burned off a quart or so, which wasn't easy to see on the oil dip stick (now I know better). I figure oil is pretty cheap, and it gave me a chance to put in the fumoto drain valve.

Would it have been ok to go until 10K? Probably, assuming that I had topped it off. You'll get 11 different answers from 10 different people on this. On my previous car (1.8 Turbo motor with a Chiped ECU) I used synthetic oil, and changed it every 5-6K miles. Never had a problem, but can't say that I would have if had gone with 10K.

Good luck with it, the oil change is easy to do once you get the correct size socket for the filter, and with the fumoto valve I don't even have to jack up the car to drain it easily. Do what you feel comfortable with.

-Mike

 

This has been debated almost as much, if as much as the recommended break in and break in procedures...

And I think this is probably the best advice about both that I have ever come across!

 

Read your owners manual. If you don't like the approximately 10, 000 mile oil change wait till you see the one that's approx. 15,000 miles after that one. As for the break in period it's more like 1250 miles and no faster than 95mph.

Again...READ THE MANUAL!!!!!!

 

Well, if you are confused by the responses to this query then whatever you do...don't ask this forum which brand of oil to use when you do an oil change.

 

My question is.. how do I get my hyd. jack under the car!

And do i need that special "filter adapter" to remove it? And if so, can it be got at a local auto supply shop?

 

Who told you the breakin was 500 miles? If it was the dealer I'd show them the manual to correct them on that..

 

I use a set of Rhino Ramps. You need a 36mm socket available from Pep Boys for $9.99. You will find it with the other filter wrenches there. The drain plug is 13mm. Use a six point socket & don't over tighten it.

I couldn't let my car go 10,000 miles on the first change. I changed mine at 2,000 & will change every 5,000.

Break in is 1200 miles keeping it under 4500 rpm. Vary your speeds.

 

As long as Mini flips the bill for any engine problems while your under warranty...do whatever Mini says

 

That's great until you are out of warranty. Then the repairs are on you. Guess if you don't plan to keep your car very long it's ok.