So last thurs I was driving home when my car lost power and started sputtering. I managed to get home (1 mile away) and called roadside assistance. The car has been at the dealer since then and just found out today it was a bad spring.
My question is could a 17% pulley be responsible for this? Mini has denied my warranty because of the pulley. They are going to start working on the car in the morning and if I could get them to cover even a portion of this it'd be great.

 

It would not be directly responsible, but they are looking for any excuse to not pay for it.

 

I agree with nabeshin.

IMO for what that is worth, no it didn't cause your valve spring to go bad.

What is the name of the dealer who is sticking it to you?

 

I agree that the pulley probably didn't cause your valve spring to fail... HOWEVER.... since the pulley significantly increases manifold and cylinder boost pressure, and valves are a component that directly interface with cylinder pressures, you will probably not win this argument, even if it went to court. Reality is that adding an aftermarket SC pulley (increasing boost, HP and torque) can be used as a valid rationale for voiding warranty on ANY drivetrain related issues since it can be argued that the extra power stresses the drivetrain beyond stock specs.

If you had a brake problem and they were blaming the pulley, then you would have a defensible position. But anything related to engine or transmission mechanicals goes out the window when you install a pulley.

I know that's not what you want to hear. And you should still ASK and see if they'll work with you. But you don't have a strong position on this one. Sorry you're having troubles.

 

Valve springs are a commom problem on these cars. I'd call MINI USA and talk to them about it.

 

+1

 

Maybe we should start a thread on Valvespring failure.. I have not heard of any v/s failure.. with performance cams or stock. HHHHHhhmmmmmm...

But I also agree, the dealer can void anything assoc with the performance pulley as Blimey has said... HOWEVER, is there another dealer in your area??
It might supprise you that it is a DEALER CALL.. NOT BMW!! The cost of the extra tow, might be worth it... just a thought..

Just me..................

Thumper

 

I agree with the fact that they would deny the warranty because of the pulley. I just wanted to make sure it wasn't the root cause of the problem as I don't want it to happen again if I can avoid it. They were able to fix the car without taking the head off which saved me a ton of money. So I guess I got off easy this time.

Thanks for your help guys.

 

I don't feel that pulley is going to cause you any additional problems with valve springs. You did get off lucky. Go out & have a nice drive in your fixed MINI, you'll feel good again.

 

Glad all worked out OK

Agreed - you should be fine... Enjoy!