Engine Light came on at 40,000 miles 2008 Mini Coupe JCW and engine works great until I get into traffic and it starts to hesitate and loss power 2x. Taking it into the dealership will cost me $150 for them to look at it.

Any suggestions?

 

My guess would be carbon buildup. Could be a bunch of other things though. Get someone to pull the code and see what it is.

 

My guess too. The ol' N14 Carbon Build Up got another one.

And just for the record, the Coupes weren't around in 2008. Although I get your gist, any 2-door car is considered a coupe.

 

Thank you both, want to take it somewhere other than the dealership. Is there a recommended place like Pep Boys or somewhere that will charge me fairly?

 

Do you have a local MINI club ? Other MINI owners in your area are a great resource for finding a good repair shop.

Personally, I would stay away from Pep Boys for anything more than an oil change or tire rotation.

 

Thank you, will see if there are any mini groups in my area.

 

Unfortunately a local mechanic is probably not equipped to deal with the carbon deposits the correct way (walnut shell blasting) so you're stuck with either the dealer or find a specialty shop that does minis. You could try a VW specialty shop as the DI VAG motors have the same carbon buildup problem.

 

Thank you, wow this forum is so helpful!

Being a woman it helps to be educated as much as possible before I go to get anything done on my mini.

Much appreciation.