Just purchased a 2011 Mini Cooper Base (Non-S), with 3000 miles on it. I'm now seeing information about carbon buildup problems in the intake and valves. Having owned a 2000 VW TDI for 12 years, I am very familiar with carbon buildup and what to do (a) to fix it and (b) prevent it. With a mini cooper, not so much. There is a lot of information out there, but I couldn't find a simple summary to the following questions:

(1) Is carbon buildup limited to the S-Models? If it is, then I guess I have nothing to worry about.

(2) If not, what are the preventive steps to take so as to not have this problem (or delay it as long as possible I guess)? I have found all the following suggestions, but what actually works and what doesn't, and what is only applicable to the S vs. the base mini?

(a) Drive the car like you stole it
(b) Let the car idle down for approximately 1 minute after driving, before shutting down
(c) Use synthetic oil and be wary of dealers overfilling (e.g. check dip stick and suck out excess oil if necessary)
(d) frequent oil changes (e.g. every 3000 miles)
(e) Use some fuel injection cleaner every 3000 miles. I've seen mention of Chevron Techron and something called BG44k.
(f) Install an oil catch can (had to do this in my VW TDI)
(g) Use something called "Seafoam"
(h) Use 93 Octane fuel

Does any of this matter? Does any of it work? Should any of these things be considered "necessary"? Are there any other things I've missed?

Any thoughts would be most appreciated. There is so much out there, I'm just trying to get a simple, concise summary.

thx in advance,
jeff

 

The following post gives some information on the carbon buildup. I don't think it is a problem with the MC. If your MINI was made before October 2010 and you hear a noise when you start your A/C there is a sevice bulletin (M64 01 10) that gives a fix. The A/C noise is the only problem I have had with my 2011 MC in 9,500 miles and it was fixed without cost. The second post has a website for viewing and getting copies of all the MINI technical service bulletins. The service bulletins are very helpful for finding the common problems and fixes and other useful information. Hope you like your new MINI as much as I like mine.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...sus-count.html

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-database.html

2011 MC PW/B, ScanGauge, A/C Vibration damper