So, as of now I have an R50 that is running damn strong with no issues, it is modded but it isn't an "S" and never will be

I feel it's time for an "S"

I'd like to hear from ppl who own R56's and have worked on them

-What are common issues related with this generation? Can they be prevented?

-Is there a specific year I should look for, or avoid?

I am aware that R53's have many more options when it comes to modding the engine as I have seen some with crazy hp...but I can't help but gravitate towards the torque that these R56's have!!

Any input would be much appreciated

 

Your best bet is to head over to the Sock Issues sections and read read read. There is tons of info there on all the issues relating to the Gen 2 cars which depending on how you look at it can be a long list.

The Modification section can tell you what can tell you a lot of what people have done to their cars to make them better than stock.

As for a specific year to avoid or have not really. engine change in 2011 seems to be a good change but it is still early and not a lot of reports have come in on real issues yet.

 

I am definitely reading and it does seem to have a list of problems.
A lot of them seem to be very specific though
I'm just looking for common problems that many people have.

Have you had many problems with your 2nd Gen?
Or has it been smooth sailing for the most part?

 

The only 2 issues I've had with my 07 S is the thermostat leaked and the timing chain issue.
Other than those issues, love the car.

 

My 11' MCS has treated me pretty fair coming from a 08' Justa. I only had one mechanical issue and that was the thermostat had to be changed. I've also had my firewall plug swapped with a new one. Other then that, nothing else but maintenance stuff and mods. Good luck if that helps you out!

 

90K+ and had the HPFP replaced under warranty at about 30K i think and replaced the thermostat my self about 87K. of course oil changes, tires and brakes. but that is it.

 

Its definetly reassuring to hear this from you guys
...most ppl on hear only really post
about problems they are having, which is why the list is so long.
On the other hand if everything is all good there's no need to post haha

So I'm guessing the carbon build up hasn't really been an issue?
Or is that something that is inevitable with these DI engines?

 

Carbon build is inevitable. It can be reduced by an oil catch can and eliminated with a water-meth injection kit, but the later can get pricey.

 

I've got a 2011 Cooper S with 9xxx miles and the only problem was leaking washer nozzles.
I'm afraid to post cause I didn't want to Jinx myself LOL.
Recall didn't affect me neither.

Up so sale also.

 

I bought a used 07 S with 31k miles. Right out the door it needed a new water pump (main and recall) and had a leaky valve cover gasket which was throwing a CEL.

With those repairs made, it's been smooth sailing the last 3k miles knock on wood. I don't seem to have any of those other issues like the timing chains, which make me wonder, what real % of R56's actually have the timing chain issue?

If you're into working on your own car, I don't think any of these problems should scare you.

 

Thanks for all this feed back fellas, I really appreciate it!


So I'm a few days late with a reply because I ended up randomly getting
A 2012 Coupe S

Looks like I need to head on over to that section