Just got a quote from the dealer - they found 2 oil leaks (tensioner and VANOS solenoid) and I have to pay $3800 in repairs because VANOS was damaged.
Always serviced my car in time at the dealer, this was my last MINI. Never again.

 

Find an indy MINI repair shop. Bet you it will be substantially less money than what the dealer is quoting.

 

+1

 

I would love to know how a vanos seal leak damaged a vanos

 

I had a rough idle the day before I dropped off the car, so it is probably true. Anyway, that was what I was told on the phone. Will check the repair slip when I pick-up the car later today.

 

hmm I would have to go with probably not true

 

Maybe I misunderstood. Slip shows they replaced Intake VANOS gear, Intake VANOS solenoid (due to internal VANOS failure), Cylinder Head Cover Gasket (due to leak), Timing Chain tentioner (due to leak and weak spring pressure).

 

you paid 3900 for that? if you have to do any more repairs go to an independent shop

 

Actually, I was told $3800, but final amount was $3656 (labor $2272, parts $1270, taxes $114). There was some oil change/treatment and fuel injector cleaning on top of the repairs, but the main cost was in those repairs.
As for the independent shop, I probably just get rid of this car as soon as the warranty on those repairs expires.

 

 

Initially I left my car at the dealers because of a rough idle, and was quoted ~$400 (I do not remember the exact amount) for diagnostics, oil change etc. I was informed about the full cost when SA called me, they always call if cost is over estimate.