10 Car Commitments for 2013

By MINI Owner and Blogger, John Lindauer.

Organize those Radio Presets: Chances are you’ve assigned your presets. But, does the order really work for you? If your favorite three stations are set at buttons 2, 5 and 6, then 2013 is the year you trade in those haphazard habits for more sensical presets. 

Get Boot-fit: Compact places get cluttered fast. If you can barely fit your gym bag or grocery bags in the back of the car, then its time to commit to cleaning the boot! One tip: don’t bring anything to the car that you don’t plan to take back out that same day.

Find a new Utopia: Yes, we all have a favorite curve, twist or straight away, but 2013 is the year you find a new elbow or s-curve to drive your motoring spirit. 

Accessorize: MINI owners love to customize. This year, let your MINI’s personality be known! Scoop up some JCW side scuttles, Neon or Union Jack mirror caps, Sport Shorty Antenna or MINI License Plate Holder. Check out shopminiusa.

Learn to Navigate the Navi: You probably already know how to use the joystick to find a restaurant or log on to MINIConnect, but 2013 is the year of voice command. Besides, how cool is it to just tell your car “Call Mom”? Check out page 242 of the User’s Manual to learn the Navi lingo. 

Rack up the MPGs: Make up for those spirited motoring moments by hypermiling. Some fuel frugality can help you get the most out of each gallon of gas. Check out my hypermiling record and how I did it.

Courtesy Kereta.com

Bust the Dust: Anyone with the Cooper Hardtop knows how filthy the back window gets. Whichever MINI you have, commit to keeping it clean with regular washing. And, don’t be afraid to sweat the details…splurge on some detailing too!

Rock the Recall: Get your MINI to your service department and have any outstanding recalls taken care of – no matter how small. You know it’s been on your mental to-do list, so start 2013 with a clean slate. You can check for recalls and service bulletins at National Highway Traffic Safety Administration web site.

Check out the Competition: Remember why you bought a MINI by test driving something else once in a while. When the other cars don’t measure up, feel free to gloat and peacock! 

Maximize your MINI Experience: Get behind the wheel of another MINI model so you can fully appreciate the entire MINI brand, not just your car.