Fellow MINI Enthusiasts-
I know we are aware of the differences between the versions of our MINIs, as a result of the two engine options (USA). I would like a topic that helps us distinguish which issues might relate to both engines, the regular or 'Justa' as contrasted to the turbo S version.
Here are some questions I've developed about the regular Cooper engine as juxtaposed to the turbo:
My Justa has developed a ticking or knocking sound at 4 years, 43 k miles. Do both engines have a vacuum pump and if so are they making such a noise?
Is there carbon build up on the Justa that would benefit from a Seafoam program? If so is it on the valves or the pistons or both?
Does anyone have a stuck valve lifter on either engine- if so what does it sound like?
Can someone explain why the turbo has (had) a timing chain rattle and the non S doesn't?
Should a turbo be even more aggressive on oil changes than a non turbo?
Has anyone had a major, or even minor, expensive problem with a non turbo engine?
How about the 2007-2011 Prince engines vs. the new ones- that's the 118 hp vs the 121 or the 170-something vs the current 181 hp? Any differences in issues that's noticeable thus far?

How about this one: Can a Prince engine hang in there for 200k or more like my friend's Acura if treated well, or is Asian always going to win the marathon?

 

Yes, both engines (actually now the four engines N12, N14, N16, N18) have a vacuum pump.

No, because the N12 doesn't use direct injection, it's still a fuel-port system that sprays fuel behind the valves.

Yes, most failures to the 'S'-models are because of owner negligence of not changing the oil frequently enough.

Have you checked the non-S (Justa) technical subforum?

There's several topics on the built / design difference of the N12 versus the N16, and the N14 versus the N18.
There's LOTS of archived material. Search and find it.
If you have a specific question, it can be quickly answered.

I don't see why not if proper maintenance is applied.
My fleet of VW's are pushing 130K miles without a fault because of the preventative / routine items that are necessary.

- Erik

 

My cooper non s is a 2009 model with 40k miles and it has developed a rattle noise around 2000 rpms. This has been addressed by the dealership in the following explanations...

-first guy said the timing chain or tensioner needs replaced
-second guy says the noise doesn't exist and its a ghost issue they don't have time for
-finally on the second visit everyone seems to be on the same page by saying the noise exists but its normal.

I commute and I know for a fact my car isn't quite right.

 

Bluefox280-
Thanks for your helpful and informed reply. I'll try to find the specific issues on some engine forum for non-S, but that was a helpful start.
Mine runs smooth as silk except for that occasional tapping.
Misterclean- nice grill change, and good luck with your new motor sound. Maybe you can join me in a thread search for strange engine sounds on the non-turbos.
Don't we deserve reliable, for being so slow :-) ?

 

You're welcome; good luck on the hunt. Feel free to ask more if you have any.

- Erik

 

I mentioned & complained about the ticking noise at idle every time I took my car to the dealer while under warranty (about 16 times). Three times I got, we didn't hear it, two times it is normal vacuum pump, and the last time they told me normal oil pump sound.

The the oil pump explanation is more plausible as the sound is coming NO WHERE NEAR the vacuum pump. The sound is loudest from the passenger front wheel well. It is a sporadic ticking that starts and stops randomly. Sometimes it is really loud and other times quiet. New or old oil does not make a difference.

The car has had a few occasions of some nasty cold start rattle/grinding sounds.

One of the 2009 loaners had the exact same ticking occurring while I was standing their trying to explain the sound to them.

My car has always made this noise (brand new) and it is at 62,000+ now.

Otherwise, my engine has regular oil changes about 10,000 miles. First 10k miles I burned up a quart of oil, none since then.

The only other engine issue I have had was leaking coolant from an o-ring (don't remember which one off the top of my head).