Hi. I'm a new mini owner in Eastern Connecticut, I got an '09 Cooper S. loving it so far. Looking forward to making some improvements and adding some go-fast parts. First on the block is a short-shifter.

If anyone is in Eastern CT and knows of a good repair shop, my motor is sounding like crap. The "closest" dealership isn't "close" at all, so I'm hoping to find a reliable shop. It sounds like the top end is eating itself. The valves are making all kinds of noise. Is that a common things for these? Anyone have that happen? What am I in for? I'll do a search around to see if I can find anything. Looking forward to learning and taking part. Thanks! ~ jm

 

If the noise gets better after warm-up, then it could be the timing chain/tensioner. Look that issue up in the Gen2 problem thread. There is talk of an extended warrantee coming out on it, but no official word yet.

Keep your MINI topped up with oil.

 

Right on.

Thanks!