Hello Everyone.
I'm currently researching Minis after the sale of my 911. I really found it to be a 'driver's car' during the test drive and would appreciate any feedback to the questions below I sent the service departments (dealerships) in the immediate area.

"?s:
1. Do you think the tensioner problem has been subdued or resolved in the current model?
2. HPFP- Has BMW addressed the reliability factor by correcting the weak link(s) that cause premature failure or is the solution to extend the warranty coverage and continue to use the same flawed design by continual replacement of failed units? (BTW.. the only serious concern I have is if one of the failure variables includes a lean condition leading to fatal detonation).
3. Are these problems that keep coming up stated on forums the minority? A lot of owners seem to express their pleasure of ownership. I think as a service advisor, you'd be able to give a fair assessment, considering you know what comes in with what particular failure and at what frequency rate.

Being on the fence between the MCS and JCW, I'd like to know your opinion on the following:
1. Is the JCW motor prone to a shorter longevity because the HP is pushing the boundaries of the 1.6 power plant?
2. Is the same HPFP used on both models, considering the MCS has direct injection?
3. Longevity & reliability wise, is the 'de-tuned' MCS 181 HP motor a better 'all around' choice than its 208 HP sibling or are they similar, considering the JCW has less compression and a bigger turbo?
4. What's your estimation of life expectancy on both or either? (100k? As any normal modern day power plant)."