Repair versus Replacement?

A repair should always be considered as a preferred alternative to part replacement. Service Information Bulletins are one means that the MINI Division uses to provide repair procedures which have been developed and approved. Replacing a complete component when a suitable repair was available will jeopardize warranty reimbursement.

To ensure that there is a uniform approach to this question a policy is in effect. It is called the 75% rule.

Major units (i.e. engine and transmission) are affected by this rule. A replacement should be considered if the cost of parts and labor for a repair exceed 75% of the costs for an exchange unit and the labor to install it. Diagnostic time is not to be included in this calculation.

If authorized, transmissions must be replaced with an exchange unit if extensive internal repairs are required. All ZF and 6 speed AISIN automatic transmissions must be authorized by the Technical Hotline prior to replacement.