21 replies to this topic

[CooperMad93]

having a garage change the oil in my mini before i get it back on the road, i'm supplying my own oil so the question is -  is 5 liters enough or will i need another? 

[dennismini93]

you can do it yourself really easily if you want to save the labor cost. but yes 5 liters is enough :)

[HarrysMini]

An oil change is probably the easiest job you can do on a Mini, seriously, unless you like to waste money, do it yourself.

 

Also, for oil, use Valvoline VR1. Best oil you can get. And if I remember correctly, it uses 4.6 litres.

Edited by HarrysMini, 13 December 2013 - 06:16 PM.

[CooperMad93]

oh right i might do that then haha so just sump plug out drain it then put the new oil in? that easy?

[HarrysMini]

And renew the oil filter and possibly air filter depending on when it was last changed etc. 

 

Search in Google for 'classic mini oil change'. Lots of guides.

Edited by HarrysMini, 13 December 2013 - 06:22 PM.

[IainNeon91]

Always replace the oil filter at the same time! Still a very easy job, depending on the year of your mini, they just spin off.

 

If it's refusing to come off, just stab a big screw driver through it, grab each end of it and turn. 

[dennismini93]

oh right i might do that then haha so just sump plug out drain it then put the new oil in? that easy?

yep, but change the oil filter as well or theres not really any point in the oil change lol and i fill the new filter before i fit it so the engine doesnt run dry, personal preference. 

[dennismini93]

Always replace the oil filter at the same time! Still a very easy job, depending on the year of your mini, they just spin off.

 

If it's refusing to come off, just stab a big screw driver through it, grab each end of it and turn. 

 

 

And renew the oil filter and possibly air filter depending on when it was last changed etc. 

 

Search in Google for 'classic mini oil change'. Lots of guides.

beat me to it

Edited by dennismini93, 13 December 2013 - 06:26 PM.

[CooperMad93]

well how bout that, i had no idea it was so simple thanks a lot! what about coolant is that easy to do aswell? flush and put new one in? 

[dennismini93]

just drop the bottom hose and re-fit then pour in a 50/50 mix. you wont drain the block but thats nothing to worry about. if you flush it u'll end up with a very dilute coolant mix so add more antifreeze than if you just drain and refill. IMO i would just drain the old and replace with new 50/50

[CooperMad93]

to be on the safe side im looking at buying Evans coolant which has a boiling point of 180, expensive, but im willing to put the money into it to keep her happy! 

[puggered]

I always write the date and mileage on the new filter with either a white or black pen on every oil change. Sad I know but its a habit I can't get out of lol

[dennismini93]

follow the instructions on the box then :) i dont think most minis would get that hot but its a corrosion inhibitor as well. i dont know much about it so wont advise anything 

[CooperMad93]

ok but thanks for all the above advise i'll definitely have a go! :)

[Andy!]

Do it! thats the great things about minis, they are great for getting into minor mechanics, the entire service on the mini is pretty straight forward, you have nice accessible lifed components. Plus you'll feel great afterwards goodluck my friend