XPart has expanded its AutoService centre network to include servicing for the BMW-produced Mini.

The company will be taking advantage of the fact that Mini owners are starting to come out of Mini’s TLC service plan package, which offered five years or 50,000 miles’ worth of servicing for a single payment of £100.

The TLC package was extremely successful for Mini, with a 98% uptake rate since its 2001 launch.

However, Don Lindsay, XPart’s service marketing manager, wants to remove business from franchised dealers by offering cheaper labour rates through 90 of the 250-strong XPart AutoService network.

Lindsay said: “Mini has bolted on really well with the network and it has a rising vehicle parc of about 40,000 in the UK. 

“A lot of owners will be coming out of their warr-anty and onto second or third owners.”

Lindsay said the XPart centres have labour rates at about £45 to £50, which he believes is typically half the price charged by franchised dealers.

XPart’s centres use diagnostic equipment provided by Autologic. Its technicians will have access to a web-based help desk which provides updates and advice for servicing of the new Mini.

The centres also hold service and wear parts specifically for the new Mini to reduce delays for customers that need replacement parts. 

XPart will be promising the fact that Mini owners can now come to them via local marketing through dealer-ships and through its website.