We have a 2009 JC Works R56, N14. Engine starting rough and rattle noise when cold. Took car to Dealer - after 4 days we were told that it is the wastegate rattle. I'm confused as this is an issue in later model minis. I would have sworn it was the timing chain issue... They want to replace the turbocharger. I have heard that the wastegate issue does not require any repair. They are saying that the wastegate will fail and "blow" the engine. Has anyone else with a 2009 had the wastegate issue?

 

Have 3 MINI's. 2011 clubbie S, 2012 clubbie S, and 2013 JCW hardtop, and they all sound like that on cold startup. What it is, is the DME holds the wastegate open so no exhaust goes through the turbine section of the turbo. This allows the CAT to warm up quicker. This makes an awful racket in the downpipe for about 2 minutes, then quiets down when the DME allows the wastegate to function normally. I can tell when the boost gauges on my cars show a slight spike in pressure then normalize. Cold start rpm is about 1200 RPM and then goes down to about 800 when the wastegate normalizes.

Dealer just wants your money. Find a new one soon.

 

Timing chain issue is something that is testable/measurable. There is a tool that is inserted into the tensioner to measure slack. You may have to pay for the diag but it can be checked to see if it is in spec.

The wastegate is not something that MINI offers as a separate part. They replace the entire turbo. MINI turbos are borg warner so there are parts available.

But if your wg is not sealing, then you can get your turbo rebuilt by a third party. The vacuum actuator can also be replaced if it is not holding the wg correctly. You can test it manually with a vacuum pump on the wg actuator. I dont recall the values, but you apply vacuum and see if it holds.

I got my parts from http://www.jmturbocoopers.com/default.html.