The mini cooper got a new battery today... I'm not sure why it went out already, but it was pretty obvious that it was going. Once I determined that the alternator was still good, I didn't hesitate picking up a new battery and being done with it. That was the first car project today. Then, tonight I went to change the oil, for the first time myself. After locating the drain plug on the pan, I started hunting for the filter. Not spotting it, I pulled open one of the new OEM filters so that I new the general size and shape. This, as it turned out, was very important. The new filter looked like an air filter... just the paper part within a wide-weaved wire mesh. I immediatly stopped, and decided I better consult the almighty Internet for advice. I found a few websites which detailed how to change the oil on a mini cooper, and they showed how the filter fits in its enclosure. The problem, which the websites didn't hesitate to point out, was the enclosure is opened via a 36mm socket. I thought, heck, why do I need a socket? I have a pipe wrench, that ought to work. So, I took my longest pipe wrench and gave it a go. It didn't budge, and much more force and I would've bent something... so much for the oil change. I found a socket online and ordered it, as well as a few other parts to make the shipping worthwhile. My only question is... why? Why make it so that it requires a special tool? It seems really very silly to me. Can you imagine if you needed a special tool to open every cabinet or door in your house? Rediculous, really.