The MINI, with its stylish exterior and precise German engineering, can make steal the scene and drives like a dream. All this with an affordable bottom line makes the MINI an accessible option for all drivers. If you’re the owner of one already or looking to buy here’s some helpful hints on keeping your ride in good condition. With regular maintenance, depending on your driving, the MINI is designed to be long lasting.
While there are many measures you can take yourself to keep your MINI road ready, regularly tune-ups are an integral part of any preventative care plan. They should be scheduled at set intervals with specialty mechanics that have the proper training, knowledge, and skills to give your MINI the attention it needs. In Abbotsford, BC, Collins Automotive has a set of professionals prepared to deal with any problems or your car may encounter and even prevent them before they happen.
Change the Fluids
MINI’s sometimes have had transmission issues when the fluid isn’t changed on time, especially those installed before 2008. Around every 48,000 to 64,000 kilometers it’s important to change the transmission fluid and change the oil to prevent any issues. It’s a small inconvenience that can save you thousands down the line in repair fees. If you have a more recent car, the newer automatic transmissions of MINIs are much more reliable.
Changing the A/C Cabin Filter
The insides of your car a kept clean by the A/C cabin filter, but they don’t last forever. If you’re wondering when it needs to be replace simply turn on the air conditioning system to see if it’s still retains the same force or if it smells like a vacuum. These are two indicators that the filter should be replaced. You can buy a replacement yourself and change it by looking on the underside of your glove box. Generally speaking, the filters should be replaced annually depending on your driving habits.
Careful with the Radiator Support
MINI’s have a front radiator support that’s made out of plastic which can easily be damaged by the impact of a high curve. This means taking extra care when you’re parking you car because it doesn’t take very much to damage this support which is responsible for protecting the radiator, fan, and condenser.
Low Oil Pressure
When that light hits the low oil after a filter or oil change it’s time to check the filter cartridge to make sure it hasn’t slipped off the center core attached to the oil filter caps. Mechanics who aren’t specialized for MINI support may accidentally throw this core away with a bad filter which is just one of the reasons that you need to make sure a qualified technician is dealing with any repairs.
Water Pump and Thermostat Leaks
After 80,000 km it’s time to start thinking about replacing the water pump and thermostat. Doing this will save you time and money before a leak actually occurs.
Performance Issues with Variable Valve Timing
Make sure to check you oil and change it regularly to avoid problems with the variable valve timing. If you don’t change the oil frequently enough sludge will build up and block the tiny passages that keep this mechanism working.
Collins Automotive
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