MINI of Portland

Ugh. Are all Mini service spots the same? Just moved from Texas. They were the same. Tell you one thing on the phone and another when you arrive. Service guy looked at me confused when I told him this. I can’t wait to get rid of this POS come the summer!

This experience was a few months ago but I can’t believe that in 2015 in Portland, Oregon there are real live shysters who will just blatantly lie to your face. Because I had heard many stories of the notorious crooked used car salesmen I had done my research, read about tactics they use, how to bargain, how to avoid getting ripped off, etc. Still I didn’t think it would be all that bad. However, I went to Mini of Portland to ask about test driving one of their used cars, which I did. I decided I was interested. that’s when it all went down hill. Despite my telling them over and over I had financing lined up through my credit union they insisted on wasting my time coming up with fake «offers» and various loan payment options… again I said «I already have a loan I don’t need your financing.» Then they insisted that even though I had a loan approval they had to run my credit report. I told them no. «Let me go talk to my manager» I was fed this line several times, during which I was left to sit alone at a desk for 10 – 15 minutes at a time. This happened probably 4 – 5 times over an hour and a half. The guy comes back.“yes I checked and we really do have to run your credit report to approve the loan from your bank.” This makes no sense but I gave up and said ok. Then they have my credit score which is excellent and he tries to tell me it’s «not that good» so they come up with a new set of confusing «offers», they tell me the car still has to go through the shop so they couldn’t give me a time line on when it might actually be available (wait.it’s FOR SALE but NOT available?!), then he tries to tell me I should put money down on it but in the actual written paperwork doesn’t subtract the estimated money down from the price. I said «this doesn’t add up» he looks me in the eyes and says it does. Like «oh you’re mistaken the sky is orange»…this is getting insane. I feel like I’m in a Cohen brothers movie gone wrong. I’m hungry, tired, my phone charge is getting low… I start kind of freaking out. I’m thinking. I’m don’t want this stupid car. who cares! Get me out of here! He notices my unease and leaves AGAIN to «talk to his manager» leaves me alone at the desk for a good 20 – 30 minutes. I realize I don’t have my car keys… they have my car keys! That’s what they do, they take your car keys to look at it if you’re interested in trading it in and they don’t give them back! I had been there 3 hours at this point and the thought of calling the police actually entered my mind. I wanted my car keys back now but the guy had disappeared. when he came back I said «I’m done, I have to go, give me my car keys.» He laughed nervously and said he didn’t realize he still had them. Oh, that’s rich more lies. Then he actually got all hurt looking and said his manager was going to «yell» at him if I left.
Oh, cry me a river kid. why don’t you get a job that doesn’t involve wasting the time of good decent hard working people who just want to buy a car!!!
Fortunately I got the heck outta there. they didn’t get any of my hard earned dollars but they did waste 3 hours of my life and cost me a ding on my credit. Lesson learned!!!
I realize this review is convuloted and confusing. but that’s all my experience here was. Please save yourself the time and frustration and don’t bother with this questionable business.

We took my wife’s Mini here for a recall and ended up having quite a number of service items done as discovered by the service team — gaskets for oil leaks, a broken water pump, broken engine mount, and we had the car detailed.
I have to say that I am not usually a fan of dealers because often you pay a premium price for average service. However, Mini of Portland was no more expensive than an independent shop we had been going to, and I was very impressed by the service. We received an email with descriptions of everything that needed to be done, and the level of risk if you did not have them done. They finished the car on time and the price was a little less than the estimate.
We can’t believe how awesome the detail was — the car looks new.
In short, Mini of Portland did a great job and they were comparable in price to the independent shop we were going to. They got me as a customer.

Well where should I start… My friend has been talking to an rep for Mini of Portland and we finally made our way down there considering we live on the other side of Portland… My friend has been looking to trade in her BMW and was interested in a car on their lot (not a Mini Cooper) So finally we arrived at this car lot and went inside, hoping to be GREETED immediately, that FAILED! We stood around, waiting for the receptionist or even a sales rep to greet us. NOTHING… I even smiled at a couple of people who worked there and made OBVIOUS eye contact and still no one came seen if we’ve been helped. Finally after about almost 10 mins, a sales man came up to the front desk, he seemed in a rush, and very irritated. We asked for the guy we were planning to see, this man words were: «He won’t be in till Friday, but go ahead and look around… Do you have a coat? My friend answered «No» his response; «Make it quick then» WTF. I’ve never in my life had such horrible experience at a car dealership. I don’t know if it was because we were African American and didn’t come dressed in Chanel handbags or dressed in heels. I wouldn’t recommend anyone to do business with this place. Unbelievable. I was also appalled on why we weren’t offered to speak with someone else at the dealership. Never again. Good job Mini of Portland!

My experience happened last year but it has still bothered me to this day. I guess I was reminded of it when MINI of Pleasanton, CA called to check up on me since I have not been in in almost 3 years.
I tried multiple times to call in and get an appointment, I was put on hold and after waiting 20 minutes I had enough. Decided to drive over and make an appointment. Drove the 15 minutes from my house asked for an appointment at the service desk: «Sorry you have to make one over the phone, you can use this one.» Whatever. Made an appointment over the phone at the service desk but couldn’t get in until the following week. OK, fine.
Following week I brought my car in and the shuttle kindly took me back to my house. I got the typical phone call of this is messed up this is also messed up, we can fix this, maybe think about this in the future, blah blah. OK, fine. They needed to keep the car over night. So, had to catch a cab to work, I was late, no worries, work was kool and me being late for work is not MINI’s fault. Was it an inconvenience that I did not have my car at this point? yes. But, I would rather have them keep it to save me the multiple trips going back and fourth.
Next day I go in to pick up my car, good to go, drive home. As soon as I get home I walk around to the trunk and see A FAT DENT IN MY BUMPER. Obviously I’m angry. I knew from previous experience with their phone operators that I wouldn’t get through so I called pretending to want to purchase a MINI. Of course now my call was answered. I explained the situation and they told me to come right back.
I spoke with the gentleman at the service desk who’s name evades me at this time. I’m thinking «how could this happen and no one would see it?» There are only 2 possibilities in my mind: 1. Someone (anyone) hit my bumper and the people working on my car just assumed that dent was already there. or 2. An employee was driving my car, hit something and never said anything. When I brought this to the attention of the gentleman at the service desk he basically shot my two theories down and stated ANYBODY that came on the lot could have hit it. I said ok then what about cameras on the lot? «We don’t have any cameras on the lot.» Are you sh*tting me? a multi million dollar company and you don’t have cameras on the lot? So, if one night a band of thieves wants to just break a bunch of windows on cars and there will be no evidence because of no cameras? OK
Anyway, maybe I’m getting a bit out of control. They said they would take care of the damage but I wouldn’t have my car for two weeks. They gave me a loaner car and two weeks later I got my MINI back. Obviously they paid for the repairs on the bumper and the loaner car for free.
Basically my experience was frustrating from beginning to end. From the calls, to the waiting for an appointment, to the extended appointment time, and finally the bumper issue.

If you drive a Mini – which I will ‘fess up right away, yes, I do – go here! Go here to buy one or to get it maintained. No Mini dealership is inexpensive but they are very good at what they do.
Every time I am so pleased to get my car back all shiny and new: yes, they wash (and vacuum!) it every time I bring it in for service (had my first oil change since moving here) or to fix something stupid (my vanity mirror broke this time) or adding oil (free of charge).
Investing more $ up front in a car (brand may be a better word) has been worth it to me. I am no mechanic and I don’t even pretend to know how an engine works with pistons and all that, but I do know that I love my little Mini. I still have the old-​fashioned one that BMW first designed, and it has been a real trooper. I bought it second-​hand (yay!) from Mini of Portland, and they fixed all the window squeaks (warranty work), delivering on their promise to deliver. And each time I was given a loaner to get around as needed. They call me in a timely manner to inform at the end of the afternoon in the case the car takes longer to fix, and, of course, they call when the car is ready for pickup.
And their Mini products, from keys to bags to laptop cases to drink bottles, are really well-​designed and appealing.
I like!

I have been bringing my 04 Mini to these guys for a few years. I have always felt respected. Jarid has always been kind, given me thorough explanations, and they will drive me to work and pick me up so I can get my car in sooner rather than later. My mom always told me NOT to go to the dealer for service, but I feel the superior treatment has been worth the extra cost.

We liked the car we were there to see but didn’t buy because of the terrible staff. Took over 20 minutes to get a staff member help us look at a car. Even when we finally had help, they were extremely unprofessional and treated us like we were a burden. Employee wouldn’t stop playing on her cell phone when we asked for help, just ignored us.
Go to Kuni dealership that is next door instead!!! Much better car buying experience and a better deal!

Best car buying experience I’ve had. My husband looked into lease prices in the area and got a call from Peter a few minutes later. We walked in the door an hour later and our the door with a new car two hours after that. They were considerate of our time and trying to get us into the right car and didn’t feel pressured.
The dealership itself is comfortable and high end without feeling snooty. Everyone we talked to was friendly from sales to finance to service.
Thanks for our new mini!

if I could give this place a negative star I would, I had my 2007 mini in there twice now for factory recall and for warranty service. First time I was told the car would be ready to pick up the next day by 3 pm so I got there at 3 and had to sit in the waiting area till 6:30 pm when the tech finally finished it.
Second time was told they would need the car over night to run the diagnostics on it and the car was there for 3 days and it came back running worse than when I took it in
so bottom line is I’ll never take anything back to mini of Portland

Just wanted to say that mini cooper shop made us feel comfortable and Bradley you rock thank you for mini
Cooper we’re loving it you guys are all five-​star

I purchased a used car from MINI of Portland today. My experience was excellent from start to finish, plus I got a great deal on the car.
Pat Walker was the salesman that helped me through the process. He’s new to car sales, but he was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with, no games, gimmicks. Ask for him by name, you won’t regret it.
I also want to give a shout out to Brad Seaman, the finance manager. Also a top-​notch guy who was very professional and honest. You can tell a dealership is operated with integrity when the finance manager is someone you can trust.
I wish all car dealerships were like this.

I had a great experience here thanks to Allen Snyder who was very helpful and nice throughout the process. It was my first car purchase and it went very smoothly. Thanks Allen!

I’ve just completed the process of trading in an older (2003) Mini with some issues on one of MOP’s «value cars», a 2003 Subaru Outback. I have been extremely impressed from day one with the level of professionalism and caliber of service I have received from this dealership. From the Service Advisor, Victor, to my Sales Advisor, DJ, and especially the Service Manager Brandon — every one of them was OUTSTANDING in the level of service provided and highly exceeded my expectations. I even had the occasion to meet the used car manager, Jan and he was super awesome too!
There was an issue with the check engine light in my new-​to-​me Subaru and Brandon worked through the issue patiently, doing his very best to solve the problem and minimize the impact to me, even asking if I wanted the car washed and vacuumed (even though it had just been done the day before when I drove it off the lot). I don’t think I have ever met someone in this industry who is so knowledgeable, personable and polite, and genuinely seems to care about customers. This experience, along with my prior experiences with the service department’s work on my former (and SO sad to see it go) Mini, has earned them a lifetime customer. My next car will be another Mini purchased from this dealership :)

I am so happy to announce that I WAS WRONG! These are really good people in the service department at MINI of Portland, and I am so glad to know that I have a good and trustworthy lifetime relationship with the only experts in the area on my precious MINI.
Going into the situation I had a bad attitude because of things I had heard, which made my perception of each interaction negative. The non face-​to-​face communication strained the situation also, and I should have waited to take my MINI in until I could be there in person. I also learned that I was Victor’s first client, so when he wasn’t able to answer all my questions over the phone he was actually doing me a favor by checking with the shop foreman, which I perceived this as scheming (which makes me sound paranoid).
MINI of Portland contacted me once they received my survey response and I ended up making an unannounced visit to MINI during the week to see Rory in person, hoping to resolve the situation. He invited me into his office and asked me to tell him how I was feeling. I explained my displeasure in detail and he kindly listened, addressed each issue, and answered my questions (it turns out my battery did in fact need replacing). I ended up meeting with him for about an hour and a half and at one point Mike Ruef (the general manager) came in to make sure I was feeling better about my experience/​relationship with MINI.
Rory gave me a generous refund, he noted that the refund was not for unnecessary work having been done, but that he wanted to resolve my dissatisfaction. For me that offer symbolized that MINI really did care about this potential lifetime relationship, and it did loads in building the trust for me. I asked for the amount to be credited to my account and requested that they proceed with fixing my car. Rory located an available loaner MINI which I was given to use while they kept my MINI.
While my MINI was in the shop I received calls from Rory and the shop foreman on more than one occasion to discuss the status. They requested to replace the JBE module, I approved, and it fixed my precious girl! :) Once all her problems were fixed I asked them to replace all 4 tires. I was offered a buy 3 get 1 free deal and now she’s perfect.
In hindsight I can see that I was like Thorin Oakenshield in The Battle of Five Armies. I believed that MINI of Portland, the elves, was the enemy, but it turns out my JBE module was Azog the Defiler.
Ultimately, MINI of Portland and I both wanted the same things: the best for my MINI and a lifetime relationship.

I’m not the biggest fan of high pressure sales situations likely because I might accidentally walk away with a new car. I could likely be congratulatory in that I made it to this age with never once buying a new car. My roommate found it endearing that this is my first car with a rear window wiper. And a CD player, if I’m being truthful.
That said, you may realize I need babying and hand holding to spend large amounts of money. It could be that it was a slow day or that I had previously set up an appointment, but I got lots of one on one treatment and even time alone to text all my friends to ask them their thoughts. I test drove a few cars after overly researching minis and drove a fiat to boot and I was sold. I’m very happy with the sales team who took the time to show me numerous cars that might fit my needs but also my personality. Fallon was very personable and understanding of my needs and foibles. I can’t wait to have time to take my new car for a scenic ride around Oregon asap!

Went to look at some used Clubmans I had seen in their online used inventory. I wandered the lot for over 30 minutes and was offered no help in or out of the showroom. Bad form. I ended up buying a used Clubman at McKenzie Ford later that day.

Little did I know that when I took my car in for maintenance, I was actually stepping onboard the Enterprise. The waiting area has this fancy, futuristic hot drink machine that makes your preferred beverage at the push of a button (but my attempts to tell it «Tea! Earl Grey! Hot!» were not successful). Though they haven’t got the transporter technology down yet, they do have a convenient, free shuttle service from the dealership to wherever you want to go in town, and they’ll come pick you up when your car is ready. Everyone who works there has been polite and friendly, and as far as I know, they’ve always done a good job with my car.

Tim Orr is an amazing salesman. Very friendly, easy to work and extremely helpful! We came down from Seattle and he picked us up at the airport. He made the transaction smooth, easy, and fun! He basically had everything ready to go upon our arrival. Great sense of humor and family man. Was worth going to the next state. If we were to buy another Mini, it would be through Tim. Thanks!

One of the best dealerships I’ve ever dealt with EVER! The staff is amazing, the sales people are great, the service department can’t be beat.
The last few times haven’t been that great of an experience. Had to remove a couple stars.