QUESTION: I have a 2002 Mini Cooper. The automatic transmission failed last week without warning. The dealer wants $9,500 for a new transmission. They say it cannot be rebuilt. I contacted transmission repair companies and have been told that BMW, Mini’s parent company, will not sell them the parts to rebuild Minis. The car is low mileage, great condition with all of the options and the NADA Blue Book for a private sale is $10,800. I have since seen on the Internet that this seems to be a common problem with the automatics. Why doesn’t BMW stand behind their products? They must be aware that the transmission is defective. The cost to repair is prohibitive, so my Mini sits in my driveway while I ponder my next step. Any advice would be welcome.
ANSWER: This is not an uncommon problem. I have driven many automatic Minis and the transmission, as a lot of other parts, is specific to Mini products only. Unfortunately you have a choice – either fix the car or get rid of it – the choice is yours. As for the company picking up the tab, sorry to say, you will have better luck playing the lottery.
QUESTION: I recently had four new tires mounted on my 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix. The low tire pressure light comes on. How can I get the light out?
ANSWER: There are two possibilities. You can follow the reprogramming found in the owner’s manual or you will have to take the car to a shop that has a tire pressure monitor reset tool. The technician will then be able to check each wheel pressure sensor and make the correct reprogramming or repair.
QUESTION: I live in New York and I am interested in the 2010 Cadillac SRX 2.8 liter turbo all-wheel drive. Do you think the tires it comes with will give me good traction in the snowy weather? Have you driven one? What are your thoughts on this vehicle?
ANSWER: The 2.8 liter turbo packs plenty of power and combines the turbo power with the six-speed automatic transmission, and no matter what speed you’re traveling, there is always a gear to for the transmission to get into and keep the engine in its power band. The SRX premium model comes with all the equipment that is optional in other vehicles, from the heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, large NAV screen, remote start and ultra large sunroof, just to mention a few. With the 2011 coming out there will be some excellent money-saving offers.
