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Prestige MINI

Section: DIY

iPhone your MINI: The Shure Music Phone Adaptor Reviewed

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, R50, R53, R55, R56 May 12th, 2008 3 Comments

This one sent in by MF regular Nathaniel Salzman. It’s a great way to get iPhone integration in your MINI without breaking the bank!

MINI iPhone integration: The Shure Music Phone Adaptor

The topic of iPod integration in the MINI is nothing new on MotoringFile. Options abound for getting your music through the speakers of your MINI’s stereo. With everything from integrated factory and ICE-LINK adaptors, to factory AUX port adaptors, to head-unit replacement. Each option has its inherent advantages of function and integration, and disadvantages of sound quality, chord management, or price.

Another common topic is that of mobile phone integration, particularly BlueTooth solutions both OEM and after market. Like with iPod integration, the available solutions vary in cost, compatibility, and function.

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Official R56 JCW Shift Lever, E-Brake Grip DIY

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, JCW, R55, R56, R57 Apr 25th, 2008 7 Comments

DIY Friday is back with one of the most interfaced parts of a manual transmission equipped MINI; the shift lever. And as you would expect it’s also one of the most upgraded parts of a MINI as well. One of our favorites we’ve found is the JCW Shift lever. While we were initially skeptical of the design, it didn’t take more than a couple of miles of driving with one before we were won over.

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Minspeed.net

Clubman’s Rear Trim Easy to Mod?

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, R55 Feb 8th, 2008 17 Comments

Recently I got some quiet time with the new MINI Clubman and immediately started studying some of the more interesting aspects of the vehicle. The first thing I spent time on was the rear barn doors.

Since the Clubman debuts on MotoringFile last August people have been asking the question - do I really have to get the black or silver trim on the back? While the official answer is yes, we found that it’s surprisingly easy to remove each piece of trim. As you can see in the photo above, the plastic tail-light trim is simply held on by a couple of screws. This opens up a world of possibilities, one of which is to buy an unpainted version and simply have it painted body color at your local dealer.

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Ask MF (Guest Host Edition): Is JCW A Good Idea for an Older MINI?

MotoringFile Sections: Ask MotoringFile, DIY, JCW, R53 Jan 24th, 2008 27 Comments

After last week’s Ask MotoringFile marathon, we realized we still have a couple more that needed to be answered. However for today’s edition, we’ve got some professional help. The question comes courtesy of Dustin:

Is the R53 JCW kit a good idea to refresh your higher milage stock MCS? Providing that the R53 JCW engine kit still available at dealers (which I don’t know if it is or not, or how long MINI plans on producing them if they are) It would seem that the new head and SC fitted to a MINI at say the 100K mark would make the mechanicals sound for the next 100k (since the expected life of the SC is only 150k), plus the new HP would breathe new life into a car for a loyal owner.

Great question Dustin. While we like the JCW upgrade for the R53 quite a bit (and the R56 for that matter) we’re not sure if it’s the best solution if the car isn’t under the factory warranty at this point. Especially considering the cost. So in order to give you a good picture of your aftermarket options, we’d like to turn over this question to Eric Savage, owner of the renowned MINI tuner Helix and longtime friend and supporter of MF. He also knows a thing or two about brewing beer, but that’s a story from another time. Anyway, to the Eric’s answer…

The John Cooper Works package has always been a popular option for new MINI buyers for a couple of reasons: it has the prestige of a factory tuned car, and it carries the factory warranty. As far as I know, retrofitting the JCW kit on an high-mileage car does not extend the warranty on the car (or the new parts, for that matter) which makes it less attractive for the high-mileage MINI owner. The big knock on the JCW package has been its nearly $6000 price tag once installed. It is for that reason that companies such as Helix Minisports has made a living tuning our favorite cars. We can do what the JCW package does–and much more–for substantially less money.

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Knauz MINI

Official R50/R53 Magnetic Badge Holder PDF

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, R50, R52, R53 Dec 28th, 2007 No Comments

After posting the R56 instructions yesterday, it occurred to us that we had never officially offered the first generation MINI’s grille badge instructions on the site. So if you have an R50, R52 or R53 and a few favorite magnetic MotoringBadge’s in mind, here’s your official DIY PDF straight from MINI.

[ R50/R52/R53 Grille Badge Holder ] Official MINI PDF

Official R56 Magnetic Badge Holder PDF

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, R56 Dec 27th, 2007 3 Comments

So you just bought an R56 and want to get a few of MotoringBadge’s magnetic badges for the grille. Up until today you’d have to buy aftermarket holder or modify the previous version that fit the first generation MINI. Finally after what seemed like an enternal wait for some owners, MINI has released an badge holder for the R56 and (as you guessed it) we have the official PDF instructions.

[ R56 Grille Badge Holder ] Official MINI PDF

MINI of Manhattan

Official JCW Aerokit Install PDF

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, JCW, R56 Dec 24th, 2007 8 Comments

One of our favorite upgrades to the R56 is the JCW Aerokit. And not only does it give the car a more aggressive look, but it’s actually somewhat functional in helping keep the car planted at very high speeds.

But it can also be a bit costly. So to give MotoringFile readers a helping DIY hand, we present you the official install guide PDF. While you’ll still need to order it and have it painted at a MINI dealer, the install is possible in the confines of your own garage.

[ JCW Aerokit ] Official MINI PDF (for Euro and US models)

Official JCW (Dealer Installed) Engine Kit PDF

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, JCW Dec 21st, 2007 12 Comments

You’ve heard the rumors, seen the photos, and read the reviews and even our recent comparison test. Now (as is tradition on MotoringFile) it’s time to pour over the official PDF installation instructions.

[ Dealer Installed JCW Engine Kit ] Official MINI PDF (for Euro and US models)

M7 Tuning

Official MINI Child Seat Install PDF

MotoringFile Sections: DIY Dec 7th, 2007 17 Comments

Babies and MINIs are indeed compatible. For years now a good number of young families have found that the standard MINI Coupe works just fine with a baby seat in the back. But did you know MINI has one of it’s own? We’re guessing it’s a little pricier than the competition (that pesky Dollar vs Euro probably doesn’t help) but it may be worth a look.

[ MINI Baby Seat Install Guide ] Official MINI PDF

Not available for the US market.

Official Clubman Cargo Cover DIY

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, R55 Nov 30th, 2007 12 Comments

Want to turn your brand new MINI Clubman into a dump truck? No worries, MINI has an official accessory to help. The Cargo Cover (or Laderaum-Schutzdecke in German) is a large three piece insert that covers the entire rear of the Clubman making perfect for that household chore that you probably shouldn’t have even started.

[ Clubman Cargo Cover ] Official MINI Install PDF

Official JCW Shift Light Indicator Retrofit

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, JCW Nov 22nd, 2007 5 Comments

Don’t check your calendars. DIY Friday is a day earlier this week due to the Thanksgiving holiday in the US. We’ll be back to the normal schedule next week.

One of the more improved accessories with the R56 has to be the JCW Shift Indicator lights. Where the previous version was big, bulky and rather out of place on the R53, it’s now subtle and integrated on the R56. It also makes a bit more sense on the R56 (rather than the R53) due to the quick revving nature of the engine.

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MINI’s Official License Plate PDC Retrofit

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, R50, R52, R53 Nov 16th, 2007 14 Comments

Let’s say you missed the boat on ordering park distance control or bought your MINI used without it and suddenly realize it’s a must have. While it can be retro-fitted, it’s not easy. Luckily MINI has a solution. It’s the new license plate based PDC. And as you can guess, installation is a little simpler.

[ Rear Plate PDC ] Official MINI PDF

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Ask MF: R56 All Clear Turn Signals

MotoringFile Sections: Ask MotoringFile, DIY, R50, R52, R53, R56 Nov 5th, 2007 14 Comments

Here’s a question I’ve personally received from a couple readers:

Hi guys, I have a quick question for Gabe. I notice when looking at photos of your R56 JCW Cooper S that your headlights are completely ‘clear’. By this I mean that when you purchase ‘white signals’ from Mini as an option you still see an orange bulb when looking at the headlights head on. Now for the obvious question, what have you done to make it completely clear? Did you change the bulb out and if so would you mind letting me know where I can purchase it and the part # etc. Thanks so much.

Great question with an easy answer. I’m using bulbs you can actually buy from your local BMW dealer. They’re made for BMWs but fit in your MINI perfectly (any model). The BMW USA part number is: 63 21 7 160 897. If that doesn’t work, just ask for “Silvervision” bulbs.

And yes, these bulbs should fit in all other MINIs as well.

JCW Sport Suspension Official Information

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, JCW, R56 Aug 20th, 2007 7 Comments

This week MINI has officially released the JCW Sport Suspension and we have some exclusive details on what makes up the kit. The timing could not be better as our first review of the kit was also posted today and already there are questions surrounding it. It’s the official details that are in demand. So we’re here to comply. Here’s the official release from MINI USA:

Aftersales is pleased to announce the release of the John Cooper Works Sport Suspension for the MY07 MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S hardtop.

The John Cooper Works Sport Suspension for the 2007 Cooper and Cooper S is designed to give ambitious, sporty drivers an exciting, yet safe driving experience. The tighter sporty chassis tuning combined with the lower ride height of the car creates a fantastic feel behind the wheel. To create an optical effect distinguishes the suspension tuning, the coil springs have a red finish.

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Official R56 JCW Spoiler Retrofit

MotoringFile Sections: DIY, JCW, R56 Jun 22nd, 2007 1 Comment

Today PDF closes out our DIY week here at MotoringFile. Today, it’s updated JCW Spoiler. MINI has reengineered the spoiler to not only be more structurally sound but also for easier installation. Now it takes all of four screws to remove and install. This will be a huge benefit to those MINI owners who would only consider this accessory as a weekend DIY project.

[ R56 JCW Spoiler ] Official MINI Install PDF

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Previous Select MF Features

2007
MINI Officially Updates Line-up for 2008
New Models & Production Locations Confirmed
MotoringFile's MINI United Coverage
2007 JCW Kit Officially Announced
MINI's Top Secret Colorado Project
2009 Factory JCW MCS (Stage II)
More MINI Variants Officially Confirmed
MINI Clubman Official Photos and Specs
R56 Pedestrian Crash Analysis
Future JCW Vehicles Revealed
MINI USA's Motorby Pilot Program
MINI Clubman Update & Sketch
BMW To Re-Brand JCW
2007 MINI MotoringFile Q&A
MINI One and MINI Cooper D Now Official
2007 MINI Reader Reviews
2007 MINI USA Pricing and Options
MINI Unveils the Sidewalk

2006
MF Design Analysis: 2007 MINI
2007 JCW Accessories Revealed
MINI Names the R55: The Clubman 2007 MINI In Detail (Part 2 / Part 3)
2007 MINI Official Photos (Part 2 / Part 3)
2007 MINI Drops Weight
Official 2007 MINI UK PDFs
2007 Nav Includes iDrive-Like Controller
2007 US Market Options Packages
Hey Stracco: The Interview
Let's Plan: MINI Clubs & MTTS
MINI's Official R56 Preview Photos
MINI's Official R56 Preview
Next Generation MINI Revealed (#2)
'07 MC & MCS Spotted in Death Valley
2007 MINI Color List (US Market)
'07 MINI Gets More Power/Less Weight
MF Review: MINIs on the Dragon
MINI USA Releases JCW GP Pricing
JCW Cooper S Long Term Review
Seven New Colors for 2007
MINI Release Info on Next Gen Engines
Chicago Autoshow Gallery
JCW GP at Geneva (final release info)
2006 JCW Product Info
MINI Concept Detroit - In Detail
MINI Sourced Triump Still Years Away
US Connection for MINI's new Roadster
First MINI Now Triumph?
More News on the MINI Triumph Concept

2005
Behind the Wheel of the 2007 MINI
MINI Concept Tokyo - In Detail
MINI Concept Frankfurt - In Detail
Driven: The Nürburgring Nordschleife
MINI Wins at Targe Newfoundland
2006 JCW Accessories
US Market Color Changes for 2006
Getrag's All Wheel Drive MINI In Depth
BMW/MINI to Buy JCW?
Official 2006 MINIUSA Pricing
Special Editions/Package for 2006
Checkmate Options Package (USA)
JCW Direct From to the Factory in '06
Tips on How to Sell Your MINI
2006 Model Year Timeline
MINI's 2006 Color Changes
Next Generation MINI Revealed
Official MINI Armrest Revealed
MotoringFile Review: MCS Auto

2004
Details on the MCS Limited Slip Dif
MotoringFile 2004 Holiday Gift Guide
Getrag Tests All-Wheel Drive MINI
Q&A on the OutMotoring ARC Armrest
2005 Chicago Auto Show / Gallery
MINI USA's JCW GP Delivery Program
2005 MINI Changes
The Cabrio In Depth / Gallery
Special Edition MC40 / Gallery
MINI Plant Tour Review
Hood Rub Service Bulletin
2004 Chicago Auto Show / Gallery

2003
MINI Accessory Additions for 2004
CVT Paddles Retrofit
2005 MINI Spotted
Rear Fogs Almost Here
New Prince Engine Caught Testing
MINI Releases Hood Rub Bulletin
MINI_Motion Launched
MINI Conquers Snow and Ice
MINI One D Announced
MINI Named North American Car of the Year
Otto's MINI
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MotoringFile Buyers Guides

R50 ('02-'06 MC) Buyers Guide
R53 ('02-'06 MCS) Buyers Guide

MotoringFile Reviews

Auto Reviews:
'08 MINI Clubman
Comparison: '08 BMW 135i
'06 R53 MCS vs '07 R56 MCS
'07 R56 JCW (Stage 1)
'07 MINI Cooper S Long Term
'07 BMW Z4 M Coupe
'07 MINI Cooper & Cooper S
Audio: '07 MC/MCS at the Track
'06 JCW GP Long term
Reader Review: JCW GP
'06 JCW Cooper S Long Term
Comparison: '06 Lotus Elise
Comparison: '06 Mazda MX5
Comparison: '06 UK Focus ST
Comparison: '06 Civic Si
Comparison: '04 TVR T350
Comparison: '06 Nissan 350z
Comparison: '06 VW GTI w/DSG
Podcast: Cooper S Auto
Podcast: BMW 325i
Podcast: JCW MC Soundkit
'04 JCW MINI Cooper Tuning Kit
'05 MCS: One Month Review
'05 MCS Auto
'05 JCW S 1st Drive
'05 MINI Cooper
'05 MCS Conv. Long Term
'05 MINI Cooper S
'05 MCS Cabrio 1st Drive
'04 JCW MCS First Drive
'04 MC w/JCW Tuning Kit
BMW M3 SMG Vs. MCS
'04 MINI Cooper CVT
'02 MCS 3 year Review
Autocrossing the MINI Range

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Performance Accessories:
R56 JCW Suspension (Track)
R56 JCW Suspension (Street)
R53 Craven Speed Short Shifter
R53 M7 Understrut System
Kumho Ecsta SPT Tires
R53 M7 Strut Tower Plates
R53 JCW Alcantara Wheel
R53 JCW Brake Kit
R53 Webb 15% Pulley
R53 Helix MCSa 15% Pulley
R53 H-Sport 19mm Sway Bar
R53 MCS Supersprint Exhaust
Podcast: R53 MCS SS Exhaust
R53 JCW Cold Air Intake
Reader Rev.: R53 JCW Brakes
R50 Supersprint Exhaust
R50 Remus Exhaust
R50 Promini Intake
R50 Remus Dual Exhaust
Schroth Harness System
R50 CVT Steering Wheel Paddles

Exterior Accessories:
Miniature's Receiver Hitch
OEM White Tail Lights

Lifestyle Accessories:
MINI_Motion Watch
MINI_Motion Driving Shoe

Audio:
MINI Digital SoundModul
ICE-Link Plus iPod Adapter
Official BMW/iPod adapter
ICE-Link iPod Adapter
Kenwood iPod Interface
Alpine iPod Interface
Harman Kardon Stereo

Interior Accessories:
JCW Alcantara Steering Wheel JCW Leather Dash
MCAW Auto Up Circuit
MINI Rear Camera
MINI Rear Saddle (official)
MINI Rear Cargo Storage Case
Official MINI Rear Saddle Bag
2004 MINI Armrest Reviewed
Mymini Knee Pad
MINI Bluetooth Kit
MINI Video Input
Aftermarket Bluetooth Integration
Ian Cull Auto-up Circuit
Universal Mobile Phone Holder

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MINI Model Number Cheat Sheet:

1st Gen MINI
R50: One & MC Coupe
R52: All 1st Gen MINI Convt.
R53: MCS Coupe
2nd Gen MINI
R55: Clubman
R56: One/MC/MCS Coupe
R57: One/MC/MCS Convt.
R60: MINI SUV