Photo 8. Original window sticker (MSRP $33,500) / October 13, 2016 / iPhone
6
Photo 10. Note the universal "RSC" logo (center photo) identifying the run flat
capability (stronger side-walls)
Photo 11. Detail of the symbol for run flat tire.
Photo 12. Wheel rim and bulge in sidewall. Far left: 2/4/19 (Jeff Miller). Three
photos on right: 2/5/19 (Carl Lindquist / MINI of Rochester).
Photo 15. The AAA "emergency road service" took over two
hours to arrive!
Photo:
August 16, 2019 / iPhone 7
Photos 16-18. Fender well hex screw
Photos 19-20. / Electrical gremlins / January 22, 2020 / iPhone 8
July 22, 2021 (Thursday)
8:00 a.m. - Appointment at MINI of Rochester to
diagnose rattles under the car, and minor brake dragging/grinding noise. Mileage: 73,262.
Service advisor
was Michael (Mike) Faraone (mfaraone@bobjohnson.com). Tel. 585-321-6363 (Michael
Faraone's direct line)
or 585-321-6364 (Eric Tasker's direct line).
- Diagnose brake noise
- Diagnose rattles under car
- Install left rear bumper bolt (missing), and replace right side rear
bumper bolt
(incorrect style installed by me when I discovered it was missing).
- Tightened the loose, rusted, exhaust shields, which actually
eliminated the rattle, so when the shields are actually replaced
(8/9/21), the problem should truly be fixed.
- Ordered exhaust shelds for follow-up visit (8/9/21)
- Total: $118.80
- Wash and vacuum (complimentary)
Made follow-up appointment for Monday, August 9, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. for the
following items. Tel. 585-321-6363 (Michael Faraone's direct line)
or 585-321-6364 (Eric Tasker's direct line).
August 9, 2021 (Monday)
7:33 a.m. Got call from Mike Faraone
(585-321-6363) stating they got the car, and would perform the work as
scheduled, and pay attention to the rattle under the car to see if it is
tied to the exhaust. They still did not have a shuttle service, but expected
car to be ready by 3:00 p.m.
11:45 a.m. (Monday)
Got call from Mike Faraone (585-321-6363) stating they only received one
exhaust shield, and they would need to remove the exhaust system again to
install the other one (when it arrived) so to save double labor costs, decided
to re-schedule the work for when the other shield arrives. Estimated in two
weeks. Mike said he was 90% sure the rattle was from the exhaust shields. A
loose shock would be more like a banging noise.
-
Replace front and rear brake pads and rotors (ordered parts 7/22/21)
Mileage: 73,910. Total: $984.96
Note: Last changed all pads and
rotors on 24-aug-2018 at 44,757 miles, which was only three years, and
29,153 miles ago.
-
Replace loose, rusted exhaust heat shields (ordered parts 7/22/21)
Note: only one exhaust shield came in.
-
Diagnose rattle under car - they believe it is due to the loose exhaust
shields. See results on the September 7 appointment (hint: it wasn't the
exhaust shields).
- Wash and vacuum (complimentary)
Made follow-up appointment for Monday, August 23, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. for
the exhaust shields (one had not come in yet). Tel. 585-321-6363 (Michael Faraone's direct line)
or 585-321-6364 (Eric Tasker's direct line).
3:31 p.m. Since the dealer did not have a shuttle service, I called Lisa
R. and asked for a ride to Henrietta to pick up the car. She was at my place
about 10 minutes later. The brake noises were gone, but the rattle under the
car was still there since they did not work on the exhaust shields that day.
Grand total: $984.96.
August 23, 2021 (Monday)
This appointment was cancelled
because the remaining exhaust heat shield still had not arrived. Re-scheduled to
Wednesday, September 8 at 7:00 a.m..
Replace loose, rusted exhaust heat shields (ordered parts 7/22/21)
Note: only one exhaust shield came in for service appt. scheduled for
8/9/21.
September 7, 2021 (Tuesday) - drop car off for service appointment on
9/8. Got call about an hour later that the car had been completed. Drove
back and picked it up.
Re-scheduled August 9
appointment through Eric Tasker (etasker@bobjohnsonauto.com / 585-321-6364).
- Replace loose, rusted exhaust heat shields (ordered parts 7/22/21)
Note: only one exhaust shield came in for service appointment scheduled for
8/9/21.
- Wash and vacuum (complimentary)
- Odometer: 75,209 mi.
- Total: $285.02
Note: the rattle under the car was still there after all of this. So, the
brake rotors and pads were replaced (8/9/21), the exhaust heat shields were
replaced (9/7/21), and the original complaint (the rattle) was never fixed.
There was a disconnect here because never once did a technician take a ride
in the car with me so I could demonstrate the rattle.
September 8, 2021 (Wednesday) - Stopped at dealership, and went into the
parking lot with service advisor Mike Faraone (585-321-6363), and between us
and a mechanic, determined the rattle noise was the front right sway bar
link. We bounced the car up and down from the front passenger door. They
only had the left unit in stock, so they ordered the right side unit, and it
was scheduled to arrive Friday morning September 10. I was to call them at
8:00 on Friday to verify, and they will perform the work Friday (9/10/21)
while I wait.
September 10, 2021 (Friday) - Confirmed via text with Eric Tasker
(585-332-5055) that the right sway bar link repair kit (31 35 2 444 417)
arrived. Arrived at 9:20 a.m., and the car was finished by 10:10 a.m. and
the rattle was gone. So, they installed a repair kit for both left and right
front sway bar links. Odometer: 75,329. Total: $203.84.
October 22, 2021 (Friday) - Called CDI, and spoke to Mike
Lombardo about a rotational noise in the front right. Heard mostly at 40
mph. It's not loud, and it's a ticking noise. Mike said to bring the car in
on Monday so someone could drive it. He also scheduled an appointment for
Wednesday, November 10.
October 25, 2021 (Monday) - (76,915 mi.) Took the car to
CDI, and Scott Parks drove it, and said it was not a wheel bearing,
which he suspected. It's also not as loud as he expected. He said maybe
something was caught between something (like a stone or other road
debris). No parts needed to be ordered. It might just be a case of
removing some debris. Who knows?
November 10, 2021 (Wednesday) - Odometer: 77,673 miles. Appointment at CDI to
thoroughly diagnose and resolve rotational grinding/ticking noise in front right
wheel. They cleaned rust from the caliper cages and backing plates.
Brakes and suspension are all OK. Mechanic reported that he did not hear
the noise again. Total cost: $110.19, but nothing was actually fixed.
Picked up the car at 4:15 p.m. but unfortunately, the
noise was exactly as it was before. The mechanic must not have heard it
originally? Brought the car back to CDI, and Scott drove it again (this time with me
in the car), and we heard the same rotational grinding noise as he heard
October 25. He
agreed to keep the car another day, and try to figure it out. He also said they had not put it on a lift. Seems like they should have
done.
November 11, 2021 (Thursday) - Another day at CDI trying
to diagnose and fix the rotational noise coming from the front left.
Sent Scott a link to a Mini2 forum topic "Rubbing/grinding
noise from front wheel" that sounded like a similar, if not the same
problem. The forum solution was to replace the wheel hub bearings.
Talked to Scott at 4:45 p.m. and he said he thought it
was
the front left axle shaft (p/n 31609806475), which costs over $900 new
from MINI, so he wanted to find a used one with fewer miles than my car
had. They will try packing the existing with grease tomorrow, and see if that affects the noise.
I looked up axle shafts, and they seemed to range from $85 to
$250, so I asked (emailed) for clarification about what the part actually
was. He
called back to say that it was indeed the front left axle shaft, and the
after market ones (Parts Geek, etc.) may not be the best quality. I told
him I would prefer getting the OEM one (p/n 31609806475) even if it was
$900. He understood. Sof first, he has to pack the old one with grease
to see if that makes a difference. If it does, then we know that is the
problem, and he will order the OEM axle shaft.
November 12, 2021 (Friday) - Car still at CDI. Scott
called around 3:30 p.m. to say that packing the axle shaft with heavy
grease made no difference. He said to wait until the noise either gets
louder, or goes away. No charge.
November 13, 2021 (Saturday) - Made appointment online
at MINI of Rochester to diagnose the rotational noise. Next available
date and time: Monday, December 20 at 9:00 a.m.
November 15, 2021 (Monday) - Called MINI of Rochester
(first spoke to Eric Tasker 585-321-6364) to
get information on the cost of wheel bearing, and front left axle shaft (p/n
31609806475). Recall CDI said to replace both would be about $1,700, which
seemed exceedingly high. Verified with MINI the parts and labor would
actually come to $1,437.50. Eric opined that since the
car is German, prices are definitely higher than some other brands.
Also asked Eric if I could come in, and
have a mechanic drive the car to actually hear the noise before my
upcoming appointment. He said he
would check with his manager (Ron Garrison), and get back to me. I explained the noise
is not audible on wet roads, or with the windows open, or with the radio
on, or with the HVAC fan on high, or on a lift. In other words, the car has to be driven at
around 40 mph on
a dry road to hear it. Eric also re-scheduled my December 20 appointment
to December 10. Ron Garrison (service manager) called back, and said
that a mechanic could definitely test drive it, and possibly "rack it"
to look at it, but I just needed to call ahead to
make sure the mechanic was not at lunch, etc. It was rainy and snowy today, so
planned to watch the weather on Tuesday, November 16 (partial sun forecasted in the afternoon).
Prices and part numbers for reference only
- Axle Shaft (p/n 31609806475) cost: $900 + plus labor (2 hours) rate:
$115/hr. = $1,130.
- Wheel bearing cost: $250 + plus labor (0.5 hours) rate: $115/hr. = $307.50.
November 16, 2021 (Tuesday) Called MINI of Rochester,
and verified with Eric Tasker that it was OK to bring the car in for a
service technician to look at. Upon arrival (around 9:15 a.m.), the
service technician (Andrew "Andy" Gotowka) rode with me to hear the noise. He drove the
car back to the shop. He brought it into the service bay, and determined
it was the front left wheel bearing. Both he and Eric met me in the
waiting area, where they provided a sticky note with the cost of the
wheel bearing, and labor (wheel bearing: p/n WP42052 = $211.41 + 1.5
hours labor @ $115/hr. = $384.41 total). They were unable to perform the
repair today, so we kept the appointment for December 10.
November 17, 2021 (Wednesday) Emailed Eric Tasker
(etasker@bobjohnsonauto.com) to see if both front wheel bearings should
be replaced on December 10. Got no reply.
November 19, 2021 (Friday) Emailed Eric Tasker
(etasker@bobjohnsonauto.com) again to see if both front wheel bearings should
be replaced on December 10. Got no reply.
December 3, 2021 (Friday) 1:39 p.m. Called Eric Tasker
(585-321-6364) and asked if both front wheel bearings should be replaced
on December 10. He said that it was too late to order another bearing
for the car with only a week to go before the scheduled service. I never
mentioned that had he replied to my emails starting on November 17,
there would have been plenty of time. He also said that the mechanic
thought we should only replace the left front bearing, the source of the
rotational noise. I agreed.
December 9, 2021 (Thursday) Lisa R. followed me to the
dealer to drop off the car, and gave me a ride back home. The
mechinic/technician (Andrew "Andy" Gotowka) was standing there, and he
remembered the car, and what it needed. The service advisor (Christopher
Jon / 585-334-6504) said if
there were any issues with parts availability, he would let me know. I
was surprised that there could be an issue with parts being available
since they ordered the parts after they determined what the problem was
on November 17. As it happened, he did call to say on December 10 that
they had trouble removing bolts, and had to use heat. Otherwise, there
were no problems with availability of parts.
December 10, 2021 (Friday) 9:30 a.m. (odometer: 79,265)
- Appointment
at MINI of Rochester to fix the front left rotational noise, which was
determined to be the wheel bearing.
Reminder: first needed a
service technician (Andrew "Andy" Gotowka) to drive the car (November
16, 2021), to actually hear, and diagnose the noise.
- Wheel Bearing (front left): WP42052 The bill says, "Installed 31 22 2 444 419
:MI-Repair kit, wheel bearing" = $211.91
- Labor: 1.4 hours @ $115/hr = $165
- Tax = $30.15
- Total = $407.06
December 10, 2021 (Friday) 2:06 p.m. Got a call from
Christopher Jon (service advisor / 585-334-6504) who said they had
problems removing some bolts, and had to use heat, and they were still actively
working on the car. He said the technician (Andrew "Andy" Gotowka) would drive
it to verify the rotational noise was resolved, and
it was agreed that I could pick the car up at 4:00 p.m. While we were on
our way to pick up the car, Chris called to verify the work was
completed, and that Andy verified the noise was gone. The car was washed
and vacuumed upon arrival (courtesy / no charge).
Paid the bill in Ron Garrison's office (service manager).
Also spoke to him about the fact that Eric Tasker (service advisor) never
returned my emails (sent 11/17, and 11/19) about replacing both front wheel bearings as a pair. I brought a copy of the emails, and verified that I had used the correct
"bobjohnsonauto" address (not the old "dorschel" address).
Ron earnestly stated that there were four wheel bearings on the car (he
sincerely seemed like I might not know that), and that it would be expensive
to replace more than one. I told him that money was not the issue, and
that I wanted the car to be maintained 100%. I repeated that I had asked
Eric about replacing the front two bearings as a pair, and presented him
with a printed copy of the emails (the ones that went unanswered by
Eric). Ron said that both he and his staff do indeed use and monitor email,
including spam/junk folders. So it's unclear why Eric didn't reply my messages.
In any event, Ron advised me to .cc him on any future communications.
Ron Garrison (service manager)
585-321-6360
rgarrison@bobjohnsonauto.com
Eric Tasker (service advisor)
585-321-6364
etasker@bobjohnsonauto.com
Ultimate Solution
Rotational noise was fixed by replacing the front left wheel bearing
at MINI of Rochester on December 10, 2021. Total cost at MINI of
Rochester: $407.06.
| Total costs for 2021 |
As of
December 10, 2021 |
| $2,327.98 =
$193.99/mo. = $48.49/week |
Attempt to schedule service appointment (10k mile oil change)
December 26, 2021 (Sunday) - Emailed Ron Garrison (service manager) to schedule
the next 10,000 mike oil change. Odometer: 79,700 miles.
Ron Garrison
MINI Rochester Service Manager
585-321-6360
rgarrison@bobjohnsonauto.com
December 27, 2021 (Monday) 10:00 a.m. No reply from Ron Garrison
(Service Manager), no answer on his phone, no answer on Eric Tasker's phone
(585-321-6364), so called 585-321-6363, and got Christopher Jon, and
scheduled an appointment for an oil change. Date of service: Thursday,
January 13, 2022 at 10:30 a.m.
Service Appointment (10k mile oil change) Odometer: 80,380 miles
January 13, 2022
(Thursday) 10:30 a.m. Had them check rattle in right rear. Nothing found.
Changed oil and filter. Nothing else needed according to the key fob scan.
Got out at 1:00 p.m. $86.35 total.
Rattle/Vibration in Rear Hatch Area or Right Rear Corner of Car
February 8, 2022 (Tuesday) 8:50 a.m. called MINI of Rochester (585-321-6363) and
scheduled an appointment with Christopher Jon about the rattle in the rear area
of the car. The rear hatch door panels are loose, and rattling. Was able to
reproduce the rattle by driving through an empty parking lot covered with bumpy
ice. It sounded like the rear hatch door was not closing, but after looking at
it closer when I got home, determined the actual noise is the plastic panels on
the inside of the hatch door. Made appointment for Thursday, February 17, 2022
at 9:30 a.m.
February 17, 2022 (Thursday) 9:30 a.m. - appointment at MINI of Rochester to
look at the rear hatch rattle. The interior panels are a little loose, which caused
an annoying, intermittent rattle. Before setting out for the dealership, I
tried shaking the hatch door interior panels, and it seemed like something
was loose behind the area of the lock/lift handle. Driving to the dealership
with the shade panel removed, there was hardly any rattles or vibrations at
all. Got to the dealer around 9:15, and spoke to Chris. Tried to demonstrate
the rattle in the back (hatch) door panel, but was unsuccessful. He advised
to wait until it gets worse, or at least wait for a dry day (it was raining,
which makes subtle noises harder to hear). I agreed, and came back home.
Fog Light Dashboard Switch Lamp (illumination)
February 17, 2022 (Thursday) - discovered the indicator lamp for the dashboard
switch for the fog lights was not working. The switch still operated the fog
lights. Sent a question to the
North American Motoring
discussion forum about how to replace the lamp.
February 18, 2022 (Friday) - schedule appointment at MINI of Rochester
(585-321-6363) to replace fog light switch. Left VM for Christopher Jon at
7:37 a.m. Spoke to Chris at 8:36 a.m., and scheduled an appointment to
diagnose the fog light switch. Appointment is for Tuesday, March 1 at 9:30
a.m.
February 19, 2022 (Saturday) - came out of my fog, and realized the illuminated fog light icon is actually integrated in the speedometer
cluster, not next to the fog light switch. Called the Bob Johnson general appointment scheduling number (585-334-9440), and cancelled the service appointment for March 1, 2022.
March 1, 2022 (Tuesday) - appointment at MINI of Rochester to diagnose fog
light dashboard switch lamp.
April 19, 2022 (Tuesday) - Got a door ding while sitting in the car waiting for
a friend. It was the front right (passenger) door. The person just looked,
smiled, waved, and drove away. I wrote down the guy's license number, called
911, and the sheriff provided a reference number (not a full police report), and the person's insurance company.
When I called their insurance company, the NYS tag was not enough
information. They apparently don't include the license number in their
database. So I called the Ontario County sheriff and got further
information. The sheriff's department provided the person's name, and the
year, make, and model of the car. All of this was needed for their insurance
company to track them down. The NYS license plate was not enough. The
sheriff also went to the person's house to see the damage to his car.
I called their
insurance company, and opened a claim. The following day, the claims person
called, and requested photos, which I emailed. Then she said the adjuster would
determine the amount of reimbursement, and send a check. I took the car to
Custom Finishes (Paul Winslow) on the next day, and had the dent removed.Total
cost: $86.46.
May 2, 2022 (Monday) - Left a message for the MINI of Rochester parts
department, but didn't get a call back. Was looking for Jungle Green Metallic
(code C15) touch-up paint.
May 3, 2022 (Tuesday) - Left message for Ron Garrison (service manager) (585-321-6360)
asking why the parts department did not return my call. A few minutes later,
got a call from the parts department, and they said they could not order
that color in a small quantity. The person advised that the paint code for
Jungle Green Metallic is C15, and I should contact the Bob Johnson body shop
at 585-239-2260 to ask about getting a small quantity of the paint for
touch-up purposes.
MINI of Rochester Parts Department
585-321-6379
Bob Johnson body shop
585-239-2260
Door Open Warning Light
July 10, 2022 (Sunday) - 5:00 a.m. Drove to the radio station, and everything was
fine (no warning lights). Sunny, dry weather for a week, with low humidity, and temperatures about 75°
- 85°.
When I left the station at noon, the "door open warning light" was indicating a problem
with a door on the right side of the vehicle. Stopped twice on the way home to
verify the doors were closed tight. The warning came on at about 3 mph. Below
that, the light went
out, and the digital speedometer readout returned to that section of the
cluster. Upon returning home, sprayed WD-40 in and around all door catch
mechanisms, and hinges (for good measure). Had a quick lunch, and checked the
NAM forum for possible solutions. One suggested that moisture gets into the
sensors, which can cause the problem. Only problem with that theory is that it
had been hot and dry for days here. Another post said that jiggling or wiggling the door catches by hand fixed the problem. So, about 30 minutes had
elapsed, and I backed the car out of the garage, and drove forward. It was easy
to replicate the problem, as the car only needed to reach 3 mph before the
warning came on. Well, fortunately, the problem was solved, but not sure why.
Maybe the WD-40 made a difference. Who Knows?
NAM post about the door open warning light.
August 31, 2022 (Wednesday) - Tried contacting MINI of Rochester about the key
fob's inability to automatically open the tailgate via the proximity detector
function, i.e. when the fob (installed a fresh battery) is in my pocket, the
tailgate no longer opens. It unlocks fine when the key fob buttons are pressed.
Called the dealership multiple ties throughout the day, and left voicemails (VM)
for Chris Jon (service advisor), and Ron Garrison (service manager). Also tried
calling Eric Tasker (service advisor), but did not leave a VM for him. They
never once answered the phone, and did not return my calls.
September 1, 2022 (Thursday) 9:33 a.m. - Called the main number for MINI of
Rochester (585-334-9440) and asked to speak to someone above Ron Garrison
(MINI service manager). Was given the name and contact information for Tim Treahy, who oversees all of Bob Johnson service managers. Called, and left a
detailed VM.
September 1, 2022 (Thursday) 9:39 a.m. - Left detailed VM for Tim Treahy.
While waiting for Tim to return my call, surprisingly, Ron Garrison called back.
Learned later that Tim called Ron, and said to get in touch with me. Regarding the
key fob and tailgate issue, he said there is an actuator in the door that
might need replacing, cleaning, or adjustment. I then spoke about how
difficult it has been to contact service. I reminded him that he and I met
face to face in his office at one point to discuss the matter, and I said
things have not changed. They use every excuse in the book. You name it,
they use it (COVID-19, supply chain issues, this or that person is on
vacation, they're down to one person, they're working between service and
parts, that didn't happen on my watch, they just worked their way down
through their voicemails, etc.). I was able to schedule an appointment for
annual inspection.
1:15 p.m. Tim Treahy returned my call, and said he was about to make a
change at MINI in terms of the staffing, so things should change. He said
there was a lack of passion, and energy there. I said that it was
unfortunate that they lost Carl Lindquist, and he agreed. Carl went to
Tesla. Tim has been with Dorschel, and now Bob Johnson for 39 or 40 years.
We talked for 20 minutes. I mentioned that I didn't want apologies and
excuses, I wanted people to pick up the phone when I call, and/or return my
calls. He understood.
Tim Treahy
Official title (per Linkedin): V.P. of Fixed Operations at Bob
Johnson Automotive
Supervises the service managers. Has been with Dorschel
(now BJ) for 40 years.
585-321-4044
ttreahy@bobjohnsonauto.com
Ron Garrison (MINI of Rochester service manager)
585-321-6360
rgarrison@bobjohnsonauto.com
Christopher Jon (MINI of
Rochester service
advisor)
585-321-6363
Eric Tasker (MINI service advisor)
585-321-6364
etasker@bobjohnsonauto.com
Sidnee LoBello (MINI of Rochester service advisor as of 10/3/22)
585-321-6364
email: slobello@bobjohnsonauto.com
October 2, 2022 (Sunday) - Dropped car off for service appointment / NYS Inspection. Odometer: 89,007 miles.
October 3, 2023 (Monday) - Appointment (made by Ron Garrison 9/1/22)
- NYS Inspection.
- Check tires. As of 10/2/22 odometer read 89,007 miles. So, the tires had
23,639 miles on them. Ron Garrison said they are good for 35,000 miles.
- Check tailgate (trunk) actuator - key fob does not work from pocket. All other buttons and lock/unlock features work fine.
10:08 a.m. – Got a call from the new service advisor (Sidnee LoBello
/ 585-321-6364), and
they determined the key fob tailgate (trunk) actuator problem was due to a failure with the
internal antenna in the back of the car. The antenna was in stock, but
they needed to verify if they had a piece of hardware in stock. She said
she would
get back to me. If they don't have the hardware, it could be a couple of
days. She advised
the tire tread depth passed inspection, and was good for another winter.
2:19 p.m. Sidnee called back to say the car was ready. Picked it up, and
she said she had been advised about my inability to get anyone to
respond last month, and that she had "taken over", so it sounded like
Tim Treahy's changes were implemented. The direct phone number she provided
was the one previously used by Eric Tasker. She apologized several times for the inconvenience.
Costs
- NYSI: $21.00
- Advice on remaining tire tread: $0.00
- Replace trunk/tailgate "B1MISA-Bumper Antenna" (61 35 6 922 212): $72.53 part + $150 labor = $222.53
- Wash car: $0.00
- Tax: $17.80
- Total: 261.33
October 25, 2022 (Tuesday) - 7:17 a.m. called Sidnee LoBello (MINI of Rochester
service advisor) (585-321-6365), and left VM to call me to schedule a 10k mile
service w/ oil change. Waiting for reply.
9:20 a.m. - Called Sidnee again, and left another message.
11:08 a.m. - Called Tim Trehey to ask why Sidnee has not returned two VMs,
and he mentioned Nick White has returned as a service writer. He also said
Ron Garrison (previous service manager) left to go back to a GM product. He
will have Sidnee return my call.
11:32 a.m. - the main switchboard called back, and I scheduled the 10k mile
service (90,000 mile) for Tuesday, November 8. Drop car off Monday, November
7.
11:56 a.m. Sidnee called. I explained I had just scheduled the appointment
through the main switchboard. She said email would be fine to schedule
future appointments. Email for Sidnee: slobello@bobjohnsonauto.com
90k Mile Service
October 25, 2022 (Tuesday) - tried scheduling through the MINI service desk,
but they did not answer the phones, or return my voicemail. Scheduled the appointment after talking with Tim Trehey
(585-321-4044 / oversees Bob Johnson service managers) about the MINI service desk not answering the phones, or returning
calls (again). Tim had the main Bob Johnson switchboard call me to make the
90k mile service appointment. In the future, try calling the main Bob
Johnson number to schedule service appointments.
November 7, 2022 (Monday) - dropped the car off during business hours.
November 8, 2022 (Tuesday) - 90,000 mile service (changed oil, two cabin
filters [i.e. both], engine air filter, and brake fluid [was due in 4/23] ).
Picked up the car Tuesday 11/8/22. Actual odometer: 90,075 mi. (invoice
transposed as "90,057").
Service Advisor
Sidnee LoBello
585-321-6364
slobello@bobjohnsonauto.com
Costs
- Changed oil.
- Changed oil filter.
- Changed engine air filter.
- Changed cabin micro-filters (fresh air, and recirculation).
- Changed brake fluid (due in 4/23).
- Washed car (no charge).
- Parts: $139.91
- Labor: $123.04
- Tax: $21.04
- Total: $283.99
Problem: Rattle in Right Rear
Replaced sway bar link, and bushings. Did not fix the
problem. Cost: $829.79
Ultimate solution: remove, and re-install right rear strut
(external rattle), put foam inside right rear door panel (internal rattle).
Cost: No charge.
Contacts
Bob Johnson Automotive (owner of MINI dealership)
Main switchboard:
585-334-9440
Tim Treahy
Official title (per Linkedin): V.P. of Fixed Operations at Bob
Johnson Automotive
Supervises the service managers. Has been with
Dorschel (now Bob Johnson) for 40 years.
585-321-4044
ttreahy@bobjohnsonauto.com
Nick White (MINI of Rochester service manager as of 2/6/23)
585-321-6360
nwhite@bobjohnsonauto.com
Sidnee LoBello
(MINI of Rochester service advisor as of 10/3/22)
585-321-6364
slobello@bobjohnsonauto.com
Andrew "Andy" Gotowka (shop foreman / technician)
January 23, 2023 (Monday) 10:09 a.m. - called Sidnee LoBello (MINI of Rochester)
585-321-6364, and left detailed message about scheduling an appointment to
diagnose a rattle in the right rear of the car. It's been happening since last
year, but is getting worse. Specified that I would like to be in the car with a
technician so we know exactly what the noise is that we are trying to fix. Any
day but Wednesday. Got no reply.
10:41 a.m. Called the main Bob Johnson switchboard (585-334-9440), and
scheduled an appointment for January 24 (tomorrow) at 7:30 a.m.
January 24, 2023 (Tuesday) 7:30 a.m. Bring car to MINI of Rochester for
diagnosis of rattle in the right rear of the car. Technician and I drove the
car out of the service garage, and I headed for the first pot-hole, and the
tech. had heard enough. We drove around the building, and back into the
garage.
Diagnosis
Replace rear (sway bar) links, and bushings . Bolts are rusty,
so may need to be drilled out. Price depends on how many need to be drilled.
Possibly another $450 to drill out bolts. Left car at dealership, and Sidnee
will touch base tomorrow. Got a ride home from W.M.
January 25, 2023 (Wednesday) 4:20 p.m. Sidnee called (from 585-334-6504) to
say that due to the weather (snow), the parts didn't arrive today, but were expected to arrive
the next morning, and they would let me know when the car was ready.
January 26, 2023 (Thursday) 2:58 p.m. I was just walking into the Pittsford
Dairy with L.R. when Sidnee LoBello called (from 585-334-6504) to say the
car would not be ready (again). She said it would likely be finished Friday
morning (tomorrow), and they would let me know.
January 27, 2023 (Friday) 8:49 a.m. Sidnee called (from 585-334-6504) to say
the car was ready. Picked the car up, and knew as soon as I drove it out of
the MINI service garage that the rattle had not been fixed. Total: $829.79
February 2, 2023 (Thursday) Filled out an online survey about my last service
experience. I stated that the problem had not been resolved. and I would not
recommend the dealership to others.
February 3, 2023 (Friday) 11:04 a.m. MINI service manager Nick White called
(585-321-6360 - formerly Ron Garrison's position/number) to discuss the
survey. I explained that when I drove out the MINI service garage, the first
pothole in their parking lot made the car rattle, and that's when the technician. said it was the sway
bar. I told Nick that after I paid my bill, I drove to that same pothole (15
feet from their service garage door), and it was making the same rattle.
Nick said that I could bring the car back the following week, and they would check it out
at no charge. Initially, I declined to set up an appointment because I was
fed up, and didn't want to go through it again. Why are they willing to check it for
free, when they charged me a $75 diagnosis fee to fix something that was
unrelated to the problem. They should have offered to refund the $75
diagnostic fee.
Called Nick back, and discussed further. He said he could give me a loaner
while they find and fix the problem on Monday, February 6, 2023. I accepted.
February 6, 2023 (Monday): 8:00 a.m. service appointment at MINI of
Rochester to fix the rattle in the right rear of the car. Met the new
service manager, Nick White. Rode with service technician Andy Gotowka, and we
definitely heard the rattle noise coming from the right rear. We turned
right (heading west) on Bailey Road, and drove a couple of miles to an
unmarked, unpaved, (bumpy/stones) service-access road (allegedly RIT
property). We got out, and Andy got in the back seat to better hear the
noises as I drove slowly over the stones, and bumps. He thought the noise was
coming from outside the car, i.e. possibly the shock tower. Note: the
dealership previously suggested this before they replaced the rear sway bar.
Andy also said there was a second rattle coming from inside the car. In any
event, he then knew how to reproduce the noises. They loaned me a 2023 MINI Cooper S ALL4
Clubman (Midnight Black II) with 2,230 miles on the odometer. Received no status
updates for the rest of the day.
February 7, 2023 (Tuesday): Received no status updates, and the service desk
does not answer the phone, so no way of checking status.
February 8, 2023 (Wednesday): 4:10 p.m. Received no status updates, and the
service desk (585-321-6364) did not answer the phone, so called service
manager Nick White (585-321-6360) who said someone (presumably Andy, the
tech. I rode with Monday) was out driving it, and he had re-seated or
re-torqued the right rear strut, and also tightened the front right seat
bolts at the slide rail, but still couldn't pinpoint the source of the rattle.
I wonder if he was using a rubber mallet to find the source, as I suggested
on Monday. He will keep
looking, and they will let me know.
February 9, 2023 (Thursday) Received no status updates.
February 10, 2023 (Friday): – End of "week 1" of the car being at MINI of
Rochester to fix the rattle in the right rear.
3:21 p.m. MINI of Rochester Service Manager, Nick White called, and left
voicemail saying that the rattle outside the car was apparently resolved by
tightening the right rear shock tower, but Andy Gotowka (tech.) said there is
still a plastic rattle inside that he will address next week. I did not
speak to Nick as I got the VM when we were in "Attic To Basement" antique
store in Leroy.
February 13, 2023 (Monday) TBD – kept the 2023
MINI Clubman loaner over the weekend. This was the first day of "week 2" of
my 2015 Countryman being in the MINI of Rochester service shop
for the rattle in the right rear.
Recap from Friday's VM from Nick White: Andy Gotowka (tech.) allegedly fixed the
"outside" rattle by tightening the right rear shock tower. Nick
White left a voicemail on Friday (2/10/23) that Andy had taken it on the
same dirt and stone road that we tested it on last Monday (2/6/23). This
week, Andy was
looking to fix another rattle coming from inside the car.
- 2:49 p.m. Sidnee LoBello called to say that Andy put foam in the right rear door panel to fix the interior rattle. He
also took the car down the same dirt/stone road, and didn't hear the external or internal rattles.
She also reiterated that the work he did on the right rear shock had
eliminated the outside rattle. Told her I'd come to pick it up.
- Headed to MINI of Rochester, and filled up the tank on the 2023 Clubman
loaner ($22.66 - Mobil station - Joe's Kwik
Marts #0470 at 3068 E Henrietta Rd., i.e. the corner of Lehigh Station and
Route 15A) before dropping it off with 2,434
miles on the odometer. Drove the loaner a total of 204 miles since last
Monday.
- Talked to Nick White when I arrived at the dealership. He said Andy
found a TSB (for a "different vehicle" [?]) that said to put foam in the
right rear door panel to stop the rattle inside the car. This seemed to
work. Nick read me the notes from Andy Gotowka (tech.).
- Both Sidnee (on the phone) and Nick (in person) were
very flexible with my options (drive with Andy to verify problem was
resolved, drive alone to verify, come back if it's not fixed, etc.). It was clear
they were making an effort to actually fix the problem to my
satisfaction this time. Recall I
already paid $829.79 (January 27) for them to replace the rear sway bar,
which didn't do anything for the rattle. I chose to just drive my car home, and see if the noises were fixed, and
thankfully they were.
- I called Nick when I got home to let him know the
rattles were gone. Odometer on my car when I picked it up: 92, 882.
Total cost to actually fix the rattles: No charge.
Grand
total (including the unnecessary rear sway bar): $829.79
Left side blinker clips broke (same
problem occurred
September 14, 2020)
Contacts
Nick White (MINI of Rochester service manager as of 2/6/23)
585-321-6360
nwhite@bobjohnsonauto.com
Jason Blair (MINI of Rochester parts
manager)
585-321-6379
jblair@bobjohnsonauto,com
April 20, 2023 (Thursday)
- 12:25 p.m. Parked
on Windsor Street next to Orange Glory Café (480 E. Main Street), and noticed the left side blinker hanging out
of the socket (see photo – after
pushing it back into place). Both clips were cracked (again—replaced September 14, 2020).
- 12:30 p.m.: Called MINI of Rochester Parts, and left message. Of course, there was no response.
- Had lunch in the Orange Glory Cafι with a friend. Box lunch $12.00,
latte $2.00.
- 1:25 p.m.: Called service manager Nick White, and
left VM explaining the parts department
had not returned my call.
- 1:59 p.m. Jason Blair (parts manager) called. He had both left and right blinkers in
stock, and he admitted this was a common failure.
- 3:15 p.m. Arrived at MINI of Rochester, and purchased both left and right
blinker lenses.
- Part number (left side): 63 13 9 802 569 / $36.92 + $2.95 tax = $39.87.
- Presumed the right side blinker clips were also stressed or cracked, so got the right side lens too.
- Part number (right side): 63 13 9 802 570 / $36.92 + $2.95 tax = 39.87.
- Total for both left and right blinker lenses (new amber bulbs included): $79.75.
- Odometer 95,566.
- Only the left lens was replaced. The right side blinker lens was saved as a spare.
History of this Problem
This was the second time I replaced the side blinker lenses. The first time was September 14, 2020 (odometer 64,714 miles). See
first blinker section for details.
Right side rear view mirror retracting incorrectly.
Contacts
Nick White (MINI of Rochester service manager as of 2/6/23)
585-321-6360
nwhite@bobjohnsonauto.com
Sidnee LoBello
(MINI of Rochester service advisor as of 10/3/22)
585-321-6364
slobello@bobjohnsonauto.com
May 6, 2023 (Saturday)
Discovered the right rear view mirror retracts,
and deploys incorrectly. When it reaches the fully retracted position, the
motor continues to run, which causes the mirror to slip, and go out of
position.
May 8, 2023 (Monday)
8:00 a.m. - called Nick
White at MINI of Rochester to schedule a service appointment for Tuesday,
May 16, 2023 at 7:00 a.m. No loaner available.
May 15, 2023
(Monday)
Drop car off at MINI of Rochester.
May 16, 2023
(Tuesday)
7:00 a.m. - service appointment to repair right side rear view
mirror. Received text, and VM from Sidnee that the mirror was two days out,
and they found an oil leak, which would cost $1,125 to fix. See repair
estimate. Also spoke to Nick White about the cost, and he said a lot of it
was labor. They said they tried to send a photo of the oil leak, but it
wasn't included in the text message, or the link. The link pointed to a
checklist of things they looked at, and a PDF of the repair estimate, which
is
shown here.
12:04 p.m. Picked up a loaner car. It was the
exact same one I had in February – a 2023 MINI Cooper S ALL4 Clubman
(Midnight Black II) with 4,402 miles on the odometer. ETA for getting my car
back was not until the following week.
May 23, 2023
(Tuesday)
11:32 a.m. - Got a call, and VM from Sidnee LoBello that the
car was ready.
1:15 p.m. - Dropped off the 2023 Clubman loaner with
4,581 miles on the odometer. Drove the loaner 179 miles since last Tuesday.
Total cost: $2,411.31 (looking at this in hindsight [April 18, 2024], it
seemed like an insane price just to replace a rear view mirror).
Check Engine Warning Light – III
Full engine power is no longer available (warning light below tachometer)
Photo 31.
Check engine warning light (odometer approx. 98,007 miles)
Photo: August 16, 2019 / iPhone 7
Photo 32. Description of check engine light from
Owner's Manual.
July 3, 2023 (Monday)
The engine dashboard warning light came on in yellow
(see
owner's manual screen capture). We were heading north on Route 14A out
of Penn Yan, accelerating up the long hill when the warning light came on.
There was no apparent lack of power, or any other obvious engine malfunctions.
-
Pulled into the Benton Volunteer Fire Department (932
NY-14A, Penn Yan, NY 14527) to reference the
Owner's Manual.
-
22:18 p.m. - Called Nick White (585-321-6360) Service
Manager at MINI of Rochester. He didn't answer.
-
2:18 p.m. - Called Sidnee LoBello (585-321-6364) Service
Writer at MINI of Rochester. She didn't answer.
-
Left the Benton Fire Department, and resumed the 37 mile
trip back home.
-
2:20 p.m. - Nick White returned my call, and we scheduled
a service appointment for Thursday, July 6, 2023 at 10:00
a.m. to look at the engine. The warning light went off during our conversation,
and stayed off for the duration of the 37 mile trip back home. Odometer:
approx. 98,007 miles.
Contacts
Nick White (MINI of Rochester service manager as of 2/6/23)
585-321-6360
nwhite@bobjohnsonauto.com
Sidnee LoBello
(MINI of Rochester service advisor as of 10/3/22)
585-321-6364
slobello@bobjohnsonauto.com
Photo 33. Check engine warning light.
July 6, 2023 (Thursday) 10:00 a.m. Appointment at MINI of Rochester to
diagnose check engine warning light.
- Since the warning light had gone off,
there was no way to see any codes. Nick and Sidnee checked for codes on the
key fob, but found nothing.
- Nick checked the tire tread depth at my request,
and they were still okay (odometer: 98,150 mi.). They had Pirelli Cinturato P7 (205/55 R17 91H)
all-season run flat tires in stock, but I decided to wait until October when
the NYSI is due to replace them.
- Scheduled the October NYSI, and 100k mi. service date. Also replace tires.
Four new tires, wheel alignment, 10k mile service (changed oil,
and filter / a.k.a. oil change), one
new wheel (front right) due to recent curb rash acquirement.
August 9, 2023 (Wednesday) 3:50 p.m. - dropped car off for
the Friday service appointment.
August 11, 2023 (Friday) 8:30 a.m. Service appointment at MINI of Rochester.
- Mount, and balance four new tires. Odometer: 99,590. Pirelli Cinturato P7 (205/55 R17 91H) all-season run flat.
4@$187 = $878
- One new wheel (front, right). Picked up some "curb rash" on 8/3/23
in Canandaigua. Cost for new wheel: $373.
- Valve stem. Cost: $26.61
- 10k mi oil and filter change. Cost: $99.95
- Four wheel alignment. Cost: $149.95
- Sub total: $1,527.51
- Misc. costs and tax (see receipt)
- Complimentary car wash
- Grand total: $1,648.91
December 24, 2023 (Sunday) 6:00 p.m. - collected a dent on the left rear
fender. Fortunately, it narrowly missed other expensive parts.
Photo 34. Dent on the left rear fender. Fortunately, it missed the
tail light, bumper, and fender trim.
Photo: December 25, 2023 / iPhone 13
December 26, 2023 (Tuesday) – Dropped
the car off for paint chip, and dent repairs at Paul Winslow's Custom Finishes at 5988 Russell Road, Williamson, NY.
December 28, 2023 (Thursday) 3:29 p.m. Got an email from Paul that the
car was ready. Total with tax: $858.60.
December 29, 2023 (Friday) Picked up the car, but Paul had neglected
to fix the stone chips on the hood, as agreed. He completed the work
while I waited. Once I was home, discovered the following
lights were out. This was a new situation because the dash warning light
came on, which I had never seen before.
- Left rear parking light (upper bulb in the cluster) was out. Replaced the
OEM bulb stamped, "13MAY2014 / Hungary / Type P21W GE
1057 LF" with the equivalent bulb (Type 7506), which I had in stock. I
figured my troubles were over.
- Later discovered the right rear side marker was out. Took the car to Bowen's
Sunoco, and the mechanic discovered it had been disconnected. The theory was
that it probably happened when Paul Winslow removed the rear bumper cover to
repair, and paint the dent.
- Paid the bill at Bowen's ($43.20), and got in the car, but the dashboard
"bulb out" warning light was still on.
- The mechanic brought the car back into the far bay, and discovered the left reverse light was out.
He had to hook up the scanner to determine which bulb it was, and replaced it.
- The pesky "bulb out" warning light was still on. Finally, they found the
left rear license plate light was out, and the competent mechanic replaced it.
No extra charge courtesy Mark Walton (shop owner).
Cost to replace three bulbs (right rear side marker, left reverse light, and
left rear license light) at Bowen's: $40.00 + $3.20 tax = $43.20.
110,000 Mile Service
Contacts at MINI of Rochester
Nick White (service manager as of 2/6/23)
585-321-6360
nwhite@bobjohnsonauto.com
Mark Lowe (service writer/advisor as of 4/11/24)
585-321-6364
mlowe@bobjohnsonauto.com
April 11, 2024 (Thursday) Called the main MINI of Rochester switchboard
(585-334-9440), and scheduled a 10k
mi. service (change oil, filters, spark plugs, etc.) Also reserved a loaner car.
April 16, 2024 (Tuesday) 8:30 a.m. dropped off the car at MINI of Rochester
for the 10k mi. service (odometer: 109,707 mi.). Briefly chatted with the
new service writer Mark Lowe about his previous jobs as a long haul trucker
for Mayflower, etc. Also picked up the loaner, which turned out to be a 2024
MINI Cooper S convertible (in "Zesty Yellow", and black upholstery) with 285 miles on
the odometer (see photo).
Drove it home (~30 minutes), and about 15 minutes later (9:29 a.m.) got a
text that my car was ready for pick up, so returned the loaner, and collected my car.
2024 2-Door Convertible (F57) MINI Cooper Loaner from MINI of Rochester
Photo 35. The loaner – 2024 MINI Cooper S convertible in "Zesty
Yellow" with 285 miles.
Photo: April 16, 2024 / iPhone 13
Summary of 110,000 Mile Service
- 110k mile service (odometer: 109,707 mi.) – technician: Matthew Rance.
- Change engine oil, and filter. Parts and labor: $99.95.
- Replace spark plugs. Parts and labor: $313.32.
- Replace cabin micro-filters. Parts and labor: $75.00.
- Total: $284.75 (labor) + $203.52 (parts) + $39.06 (tax) = $527.33.
Check Engine Warning Light – IV
Photo 36. Check engine warning light.
Photo 37. Description of check engine light from
Owner's Manual.
September 28, 2024 (Saturday)
The check engine dashboard warning light came on in yellow
(see
owner's manual screen capture).
We were heading north on Hunt Hollow Road (County Road 36) out of Naples, accelerating up the long hill
(in the rain, which is when this seems to happen) when the warning light came on.
There was no apparent lack of power, or any other obvious engine malfunctions.
However, the next day, the engine had a rough idle.
-
September 28, 2024 (Saturday) The light stayed on as we
dropped off a passenger at Flaherty's in Honeoye Falls, and the
remainder of the trip home.
-
September 29, 2024 (Sunday) 6:15 a.m. The light came on
when starting the engine to go to work. It normally goes off after re-starting the engine.
It was unusual to have it come on first thing the next day. Fortunately,
during the drive to work, the light went out. It stayed out all day (20
mile trip home, and then to NY Museum of Transportation - E. River Rd.
in West Henrietta). The light stayed off for a total of 71 miles of
driving this day.
-
September 29, 2024 (Sunday) 10:16 a.m. While at work,
left a voicemail for Nick White (585-321-6360), and emailed Mark Lowe (mlowe@bobjohnsonauto.com).
Mark replied within 15 minutes
that he would set up an appointment on Monday when he got to work on
Monday.
-
September 29, 2024 (Sunday) Car was idling rough before
we went to the NY Museum of Transportation with VHT. Possible cause: see
entry for November
29, 2018 where the thermostat was making the engine think it was
hotter than it actually was, thus causing the fan to run, and unbalance
the fuel mixture making the engine run rough.
September 30, 2024 (Monday) Schedule appointment at MINI of Rochester to
diagnose check engine warning light.
- Scheduled the October NYSI, and diagnose Check Engine warning
light.
- At a previous visit, since the warning light had gone off, there was no way to see any codes.
Contacts at MINI of Rochester
Nick White (service manager as of 2/6/23)
585-321-6360
nwhite@bobjohnsonauto.com
Mark Lowe (service writer/advisor as of 4/11/24)
585-321-6364
mlowe@bobjohnsonauto.com
October 7, 2024 (Monday) 8:30 a.m. Appointment
at MINI of Rochester to diagnose Check Engine light, and perform NYSI.
No loaners available until November.
8:22 a.m. Mark Lowe called to get background on when the check
engine light comes on. He will have a technician drive it to see if it
comes back on. He said if the light is not on, there is no way to
know what the exact problem is. They charge one hour labor ($180) for
diagnostics.
After the phone call, I sent Mark a photo of the
check engine light from yesterday morning (odometer 116,122 mi.), which
came on while driving on Poplar Hill Road to WYSL.
Photo 38. Check engine warning light (odometer 116,122 mi.).
Photo: October 6, 2024 / 6:48 a.m. / iPhone 13
October 7, 2024 (Monday) 3:06 p.m. - I called Mark Lowe called to get an update. The
technician was still trying to get the light to come on. He said I could pick it
up, and bring it straight there whenever it came back on, or leave it overnight
for them to look at it again tomorrow. I decided to leave it there, and pick it
up Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
October 8, 2024 (Tuesday) 2:03 p.m. - Nick White from MINI
of Rochester called to say the car passed NYSI, but needed they found the
following problems, or fault codes. I approved all work with the
understanding that the car may not be ready until Monday, October 14, 2024
(semi-worst-case scenario).
- Found old code for PCV valve fault (PCV valve is integral to the valve cover).
Replace valve cover. Note: this may explain the oil around the top of the
valve cover.
- Found old code for alternator fault (~$1,000 plus labor - total
~$1,800) Part is two days away. Too late to get the order in today, so
order will go out Wednesday, and part will likely not arrive until
Thursday. Supply chain problems due to recent hurricanes could be
problematic, and cause delays.
- Ground cable strap. Replaced free of charge per Nick White.
- Front tires are a bit more worn than rears. Rotate tires $30. Note:
tires were replaced August 11, 2023 (99,590 mi.) i,e. 16,532 miles ago.
See Tire History.
- Arch light (left rear).
October 11, 2024 (Friday) 1:27 p.m. I called Mark Lowe for status,
and he determined all the parts were in stock. He said he was going to
check with the technician to get the status, and call me back. He
verified the parts are in stock, but the technician is busy with other
work, and it won't likely be until Tuesday, October 15 before they bring
it in.
October 14, 2024 (Monday / Columbus Day) 8:38 a.m. Called Nick White
(no answer - left voicemail [VM]) to get a better ETA, and check on
loaner car availability. Also asked about getting a mechanic from
another dealership to work on the car. Nick called back, and scheduled a
MINI loaner for me to pick up Tuesday, October 15, 2024 in the afternoon
around 2:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Former Contact at MINI of Rochester
Tim Treahy (10/14/24 – main switchboard
[585-334-9440] verified he still worked at Bob Johnson).
Official title (per
Linkedin): V.P. of Fixed Operations at Bob Johnson Automotive
Previously (in 2022) he supervised the service managers. Had been with Dorschel
(now Bob
Johnson) for 39-40 years (as of 2022).
When I spoke to him (September
1, 2022) he was a seasoned professional, sympathetic, understanding, and
willing to listen to constructive criticism. Important qualities that
are often lacking today.
Tel. 585-321-4044 (no
greeting, just a generic voice: "leave a message")
Email:
ttreahy@bobjohnsonauto.com
- October 14, 2024 (Monday / Columbus Day) 8:49 a.m. Called Tim Treahy and left VM for him to call back. Did not
leave my number as there was no message that it was actually still Tim's
phone.
- October 14, 2024 (Monday / Columbus Day) 8:53 a.m. Called main
MINI switchboard (585-334-9440) and verified
that Tim Treahy was still there. Got transferred to his VM, and left a
more detailed number with my phone number.
October 15, 2024 (Tuesday) Picked up the loaner (2025 MINI Cooper
2-door), and Mark Lowe covered the operation of the basic controls
because most of the auxiliary features (fan, heat, AC, radio, GPS,
radio, etc.) are controlled by a touch-screen in the center of the dash.
Even starting the car, and putting it into gear is different from the
2015 Countryman.
2025 2-Door Hardtop (F66) MINI Cooper 3-door Loaner
from MINI of Rochester
Photo: October 15, 2024 / iPhone 13
Photo 39. The loaner 2025
MINI Cooper 3-door hatchback in "Ocean Wave Green" with white roof, and "Vescin Beige"
interior.
Engine: inline, 4-cyl., 2.0 liter, 161 HP, 16 valve, intercooled
turbo (no "S" badge).
Transmission: 7-speed automatic.
VIN: WMW13GD01S2W42407
It had 8 miles
on the odometer when I picked it up.
It had
562 miles on the
odometer when it was returned October 28, 2024.
This loaner (same VIN) was
also for sale as new (MSRP
$35,045).
https://www.miniofrochester.com/new/MINI/2025-MINI-Hardtop+2+Door-c325b681ac1808732b0b3223317de9b4.htm
October 23, 2024 (Wednesday) 8:22 a.m. Called Mark Lowe (MINI of Rochester
Service Writer), and left message asking for status on my car.
October
23, 2024 (Wednesday) 9:19 a.m. Got a text
message from Mark that it might be ready Friday, but more likely next week. Monday
10/28 will mark three weeks since the car was dropped off.
October
23, 2024 (Wednesday) 8:38 a.m.
Called Nick White (MINI of Rochester Service Manager), and left message
asking for status on my car.
October 23, 2024 (Wednesday) 9:55 a.m. Nick returned the call while I
was in the WYSL parking lot with interview guest Daron (die-cast haul:
Matchbox 12-A (MX112-A) Land Rover Johnny Lightning 109 Custom Continental Mk III Hot
Wheels CFG74 Lotus Esprit). He said they received the wrong alternator
(probably code for: ordered the wrong alternator), and that it would likely be next
week when I get the car back. Note: Monday 10/28/24 will mark three weeks since the
car was dropped off.
October 24, 2024 (Thursday) 11:30
a.m. Left Tim Treahy a second VM about the fact that my car had been
in the shop since October 7 without being serviced.
October 24, 2024
(Thursday) 3:07 p.m. I was visiting with Lyle at The Train Place in
Mendon (die-cast haul:
Matchbox No. 14-C Bedford Lomas Ambulance) when I got a call from
Nick White (MINI service manager) who said Tim Treahy had contacted him. Tim
is apparently still employed by Bob Johnson, but works from home in a different
capacity from when I spoke to him (September 1, 2022). At that time
he oversaw the service managers at the various Bob Johnson (formerly Dorschel) dealerships. I stepped outside The Train Place to have the
conversation with Nick. He asked what my issue was.
Obviously, it was the fact that my car had been in the shop since Monday, October 7
(over two weeks) without being serviced. Note the parts (PCV valve,
alternator) were ordered, and verified in-house on Friday, October 11.
Also note on Tuesday,
October 15 a brand new MINI Cooper loaner (with eight miles on
the odometer) was provided for my convenience, which I was grateful for.
I asked Nick if they were short staffed, and if the dealership was being
phased out, and spoke of what it was like to not get any updates on my car
without my having to request them, etc. He said the technician (mechanic)
shortage is also happening at other Bob Johnson dealerships. He said the
dealership was not being phased out. Internal MINI dealer ownership had
apparently changed hands, but it was still under the Bob Johnson umbrella. I
told him I'd like to buy another MINI, but my overall experience with MINI
service during the last eight years (since October 2016)
forced me to consider other brands. I'm not
sure if he or anyone else there really cares, or understands how the
inconsistent quality of service negatively affects the business, which is at the center of the customer
service issues at this franchise. He said he would have a sales person
evaluate my car for a possible trade-in, and follow up with me.
October 28, 2024 (Monday) 9:23 a.m. Nick White called to say the car was
ready.
- Technician: Matthew Rance
- NYSI: $21
- Cylinder head assembly, incl. PCV valve (11 12 7 646 552) $496 +
$340 labor.
- Installed locking bow (11 12 7 589 618): $25.31.
- Alternator replacement (12 31 7 604 782) $850 part, $1,032.50 labor.
- Install dowel pin (11 28 7 536 643) $9.06.
- Installed attachment element (63 12 2 752 224) $8.70.
- Sub total alternator: $1,900.26.
- Ground strap getting corroded, replace: (12 42 9 805 422) $65.79,
labor: $20.
- Rotate tires. Fronts had lower tread depth than rear. $29.95.
- Replace daytime running light bulb (left rear arch) (63 21 7 160
797) $8.42, $40 labor. Subtotal: $48.42.
- Labor: 1300.95.
- Parts: 1,646.53.
- Tax: $234.12.
- Grand total: $3,181.60.
November 4, 2024 (Monday) - Bought a new 2024 Subaru "Crosstrek Limited" at Van Bortel Subaru in Victor.
The MINI was traded in on the deal.
It's Never The End.
NEXT SERVICE DUE:
the 12th of Never (xxx,xxx miles)
Hot Wheels ®
First comes the carthen comes the Hot Wheels!
Photo 40. Hot Wheels № X1639 / Released 2013
2012 MINI Cooper
Countryman World Rally Car (WRC)
Photo: November 4, 2016 / iPhone 6
Photo 41. Hot Wheels № X1639 / Released 2013
2012 MINI Cooper
Countryman World Rally Car (WRC)
Photo: November 4, 2016 / iPhone 6
Matchbox ®
Next—the Matchbox!
Photo 42. Matchbox № MB1167 / Released 2019
2011 MINI Cooper S
Countryman
Photo: September 17, 2019 / iPhone 7
Photos 43-44. Matchbox № MB1167 / Released 2020
2011 MINI Cooper S
Countryman
Photo: August 11, 2023 / iPhone 13
c o n t a c t /
h o m e
2015 MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4
Established: October 15, 2016
Last Update:
November 04, 2024
© Black Sparrow Photography / Jeffrey P. Miller (N2AWA)
