Local — MINIkota

To suggest or rate a MINI related service or experience, send e-mail to suggest@minikota.org.

Auto Parts

• Power Steering Fluid

  MINI uses a special power synthetic steering fluid called Pentosin CHF 11S. Other fluids could damage seals and cause a burn-out of the electric power steering motor. Regular auto stores have not began carrying it but Valley Imports, 402 40th St. SW, Fargo does at $24.59 with tax per quart. That is actually cheaper than it is online.
  Bruce Schoenwald

Body Shops

• Fargo's Finest Auto Body

  Fargo's Finest is a family owned business of car enthusiasts. They have no trouble performing work on MINIs.
  Brian Glaeske

• Northwest Auto Body

  Never had them do anything to the Mini, but they did do some nice work on my BMW about 10 years ago. The car is still in my family and it looks as good now as it did when they finished.
  Dale Faust

Mechanics

• Dave's I-29 Service

  The guys at Dave's are all around good guys. Don't know if they can service MINIs yet.
  Brian Glaeske

• Sports Car Engineering

  Never had anything done to the Mini but I know several of the guys and they appreciate what the Mini represents. Dave Hagen used to race Mini's, they also have the computer system to reset the reminder counter for oil changes. Plus have all the bulletins for BMW cars. Did a great job and have worked on Mini's before.
  Dale Faust and Dave Gausman

Detailing and Bling

• Tintmasters Motorsports

  Tintmasters is an auto-detailing and accessory service located in Fargo on west Main Avenue. I just had my windows tinted there and the window tinting is very good. They also provided a ride after my MINI was dropped off.
  Brian Glaeske

Member Advice

• Tire Rotation

  If anyone is driving a Coop (new) I would seriously suggest doing a tire rotation. I will be changing off the rears before they have 12,500 on them. The BMW service advisor says, "There is no advice on rotating; in fact, BMW says to keep the tires on the wheels they were delivered on. But, rotating about 8000 might prevent cupping. Some people are concerned about financial issues and others are concerned about handling."
  Mike Morrissey