The lesson is "plan ahead". It took two stores to find a filter and three trips to get the right drain plug. Also couldn't find a filter wrench anywhere. Finally borrowed a 36 mm socket and had to spin it with a pipe wrench. I got it changed finally and ordered everything I need for next time.
Only a few filter sources to consider.... MINI OEM Mann I believe NAPA carries Mann rebranded.... Others have proven inferior.... Problems with collapsing media... etc...
Yep, I wouldn't use anything but factory filters on my MINI, and it's probably a good idea to buy a spare drain plug, they get stuck and rounded easily - not by you necessarily, but the previous owner(s) and oil changers. Don't forget, synthetic oil only in your MINI.....
Some vendors offer filter change "kits".... Usually 5 or 6 filters....saves on shipping...and can drop the price per filter down to $6-8 each for OEM/Mann filters if I recall right... Some big box stores can charge CRAZY prices for crap filters four our cars.... They are just filter media...no back drain plugs, etc...and are pretty inexpensive.
My dealer charges $8 bux and change for an OEM filter, right over the parts counter.... I get 5 quarts of MINI oil and a filter for about $35 including tax. Now that I'm out of warranty I still use factory filters but I've switched to Mobil 1, it's 5 qts for $21 at Wally World on sale. 5W30 of course....
You can get a oil filter socket on eBay cheep. [ame=http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Schwaben-Oil-Filter-Housing-Socket-OC-03-/390797895335?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3ACooper&hash=item5afd5ea6a7&vxp=mtr]New Schwaben Oil Filter Housing Socket OC 03 | eBay[/ame] I only use OEM filters.
Only use OEM filters and use whatever oil you choose in the correct weight as other have said. 5w30 Welcome to M/A.
I'll be the odd ball here. OEM or Mann filter & Mobil 1 0w40 of course.... Welcome to M/A & good on ya for changing the oil.
...then we're the Oddfellows, as that is my recipe. Always insisting on the ACEA A3/B3 rated oils. Why do I love changing my own oil? I take my time to ensure no dings, scratches, or paint swirls. I use plenty of rags and will not spill a drop on the engine or garage floor. I drain the crankcase completely. I treat the O-ring with gentleness. I make sure the filter cap and drain plug are torqued to their exact specification. I don't under-fill or overfill. That sort of TLC isn't always guaranteed from a grease monkey who may just be going through the motions...
Here's a link. What's the right oil for my car? For around $24 for a 5 quart jug at WW, you can't beat it. I run Mobil 1 in all of my vehicles except for the HD.
So Mini and Dave.0 say 5w30, but Mobil 1 say 0w40. Is this just a preference? or is there an advantage to doing the 0w40?
0W40 Your vehicle has a specific recommendation. The company that manufactures your vehicle recommends this Mobil 1 product, or has a special requirement. Current Vehicle: Year: 2007 Make: Mini Model: Cooper Engine Type: 4cyl. 1.6Liter Turbocharged