Hey y'all
I've got a 2007 Mini Cooper S. When I got in the car today and started it up, the check engine light is on, it won't rev past 3k rpms, and it smells a bit like exhaust. Any idea what's up?

Also if anyone could direct me to a guide on how to find diagnostic codes, I would appreciate that as well.

Thanks!

 

Take it to Autozone, they will pull the code for you. Then post it here, am sure you'll get some help.

 

AZdsrt

Makes the right suggestion but guessing is more fun.

I would guess a clogged cat or locked brake. Either would produce noticeable smells though of different sorts and both would lock you down.

My Audi days taught me about both.

 

I'm going to take it to the local foreign repair shop to check the codes. I opened up the oil cap and noticed a little sludge, which is really surprising because I JUST bought this car from a dealership. If they left some old oil in this and didn't tell me, I'm going to be PO'd.

 

If it's Cold there like it is here in Omaha Ne, It might be moisture frozen in your air intake and throttle body. It produces a half power symbol and check engine light. Car will fluxuate the idle from 750 to 1500 rpms. if it's that let it run for a while like that and it should clear up. Turn it off and on and it should clear. this has happened to my MINI a few time this winter. Just a suggestion. Still get it looked at.

 

+1 on these cold days some ice can fold on the throttle body, it will also rev and bounce sometimes.

 

Looks like Scooter162 nailed it: Some condensation got into the throttle body and froze over. Thanks everybody!