Serving Clifton, Franklin, Hawthorne & Newton, NJ, plus Lodi opening soon
KRP Lodi is opening soon.
MINIs are fun to drive and specific about maintenance. Since the modern Cooper arrived in 2002, they have used BMW engineering, and KRP services every generation, from early supercharged Cooper S models to today's Countryman and electric MINI.
Every modern MINI is engineered by BMW, and the newest ones share engines with BMW directly. That makes them well documented, but it also means the right oil, the right coolant and attention to small leaks matter more than on most small cars.
The MINI in our photo is a Clubman at our Newton shop. The biggest factor in what a MINI needs is which generation it is.
Each generation has its own personality in the shop.
First generation, with a supercharged Cooper S. Automatic Coopers from this era used a CVT that is sensitive to fluid condition. See transmission service.
The Cooper S moves to a 1.6-liter turbo. Engines from these years are known for timing chain tensioner wear, carbon on the intake valves and oil leaks, all worth catching early. See engine repair.
Four doors and available all-wheel drive, with driveline fluids that need their own service. See drivetrain and differential.
BMW's three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines arrive. They are stronger engines, but plastic cooling parts such as the thermostat housing still leak with age.
The first battery-electric MINI hardtop. It still needs brakes, tires, cabin filters and 12-volt battery service.
A new generation of gasoline and electric models. Early days, so mostly maintenance.
On second-generation Cooper S models this is often the timing chain tensioner. It is worth diagnosing soon, because a chain that jumps can damage the engine.
Yes. MINI specifies BMW-approved oils, and using the right one matters on these engines. We use what your engine calls for. See oil changes.
Modern MINIs are engineered by BMW, and current models share engines and many parts with BMW, which keeps parts available.
Most repairs at KRP Automotive are guaranteed for as long as you own your vehicle. If you pay for a repair at our shop, you shouldn’t have to pay for it again, that’s our promise at all four open New Jersey locations.
