I'm new to my mini his name is MiniMIKE I've been hearing a lot of talking about a Bentley Manuel. Is there not a true mini book then?
That is the best book for working on your MINI. Its a pro level shop manual. The only thing better is MA
Here >>> Amazon.com: MINI Cooper (R55, R56, R57) Service Manual: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 (9780837617305): Bentley Publishers: Books
Yes, it may be expensive but it covers everything and has helped me several times. The MINI BIBLE is not cheap but it is worth every penny.
Do a search, that was just the first result that came up. I've seen them come up used for less money. Keep an eye out.
Bentley is a must have, whether you do the work yourself or just want to know how your MINI works (and sometimes doesn't). I picked up a used one for my '06 for $45. Has a couple of fold overs, but perfectly usable. I always make a note in the back of the book of the part numbers for service items such as cabin filter, serpentine belt, plugs, etc.
$ 89.00 for the New updated one coming out Oct 1st. (Pre Order) Hard Cover not paperback. Amazon.com: MINI Cooper (R55, R56, R57) Service Manual: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 (9780837617305): Bentley Publishers: Books
So - two points: 1) if you buy a Bentley manual, get the right one based on the generation / year of your MINI. You didn't mention what year model your car is... the link provided is for 2nd gen MINIs only. There's also a version for 1st gen MINIs. 2) Just making sure you're not looking for just an OWNER'S MANUAL.... it's not clear from your post whether you're looking for the full shop manual, or just happened to buy a used car that didn't come with an owner's manual? There most definitely is a "Real MINI" owner's manual that comes with the car when new... they can be found in PDF if you search, or you can buy one from the dealer. But yes... if you plan to do your own work on the car... the Bentley manual is worth the money.
All the owners manuals are available in PDF right here in the M/A Library. Owners Manuals - MINI Cooper 2002-2013 - Library
There are also service manuals available from Haynes and Chilton. The two are allegedly identical in content. A quick web search will provide multiple sources for each - around $25.
The Haynes manual is terrible, not just for the MINI but for all makes. It is kind of like a movie trailer compared to the Bentley manual's full length feature.