My '06 MCS/JCW overheated while it was still cool this morning, and after giving it a tall cool drink, it went into Limp Mode. The dealer towed it in and tells me the problem was a faulty Damper.

Does this sound right? I need some intelligence on this. Any informed reply welcome!

 

Yep. Damper (crank pulley) fails - as a result the belt will either break or will just "sit there" - but will not turn the AC, Alternator, supercharger or water pump. No water pump = overheating. No boost from SC = limp mode.

Mine failed 2 weeks ago and resulted in a 90 mile flatbed ride home. I replaced mine with an ATI Super Damper from WayMotorWorks, which is quite different and will never fail like an OEM replacement damper may...

Replacement is fairly straightforward (only took me about an hour), but I'm sure the dealer will overcharge for this big time.

 

Thanks! I understand now. Your scenario is exactly what played out yesterday morning.

My Cooper is under an extended warrantee, or sure, it would be at least $700 for the dealer.

 

Cool! Yep, extended warranty is good in this case!

As long as you didn't drive the car long with it overheating, you should be fine once the new damper & belt are installed and coolant is topped up.

 

Mini fixed the car today, seems fine. I must say, this car in the shop at least four times a year. Sort of delicate.