I have a 2006 Mini S that the dealer told my customer the oil leak was from the oil pan gasket. I replaced the gasket and went as far as using new bolts because the old ones felt like they were about to strip or break before they reached torque. I still have the oil leak at the oil pan where it bolts to the transmission! I have also noticed it leaks worse right after you shut off the engine when warmed up and not as much when it is running. I also notice the starter has oil on it. The flexplate seems dry so I did not suspect the rear main and the head and valve cover gaskets do not show any signs of oil. The gasket between the block and main bearing support seems ok also.

 

I have to tackle a weeping gasket soon too. If I remember correctly there were tips on reassembly not only about bolt pattern and torque but about the trans bolts. I've also read of people using liquid gasket on the rough edges to avoid leaking. I can read over my manual at home and post later tonight.


Good luck and keep us updated!

 

The crank postion sensor is often a leaker on the gen1 mini....just an oring....often mimics a failing oil pan gasket from some posts...i'd clean up everything...drive a few miles, then look.

 

what zippy said, also their is not gasket between the block parts its sealed by a sealant and i have yet to see one leak.
did you replace it with a aftermarket or oem gasket
and did you torque to exact spec and order, i know they are a bit sensitive to that.
other things to check is the filter housing and anything else in that area.

 

Just checked my Haynes. The transmission bolts get finger tightened first then the oil pan bolts in the correct sequence get finger tightened. Go back and torque the oil pan bolts to 23 Ft-lbs then the trans bolts to 63 Ft-lbs. You would be surprised how important that is on all cars. It would be good to clean up and look at the car. If its the oil pan gasket again, examine your process,improve and try again.

Keep us posted!

 

Removed and replaced oil pan gasket again. Very careful on all steps and used OEM gasket. Does not seem to leak when running, only when it is shut off warm. Oil comes out at pan to transmission joint. Flexplate was still dry.

 

Could part# 5 possibly be a plug in a galley that could leak oil?

http://www.estore-central.com/mini-p.../engine-block/

 

its either that or a rear main seal.