I leased a 2010 Cooper a while back and had to turn it in. Just bought a used 2010 convertible about two months ago. Recently discovered it drips oil slightly after running. Maybe three, four drops and then it stops. This is coming from the passenger side.

Also, I've had a cel come on recently. Guys at Firestone says its a cam sensor. Anybody have any experience with either of these issues? I'm scared to death of a massive repair bill here. Lost my notes on it, but he was taking about intake timing. Not sure if these issues are related. Help!!

 

Since you just purchased this R57 from what sounds like a used car lot, do yourself a favor and drop into your nearest MINI dealer and ask a SA to drop your key into their computer dock to see what is left on your warranty and see if there are any recalls, updates, campaigns or extended warranty for your new/used MINI.

Have seen on more than one occasion where it was discovered that previous owner had a $3K transferrable extended warranty....it's like finding 3 grand on the sidewalk....

I say this because 99% of the time while meaning well, shops like the one you took it to haven't a clue and will shot gun parts at your car until they figure it out. In your case, the cam sensor is on your valve cover....AND on the drivers side top....see below. (Part no. 8 in diagram ) So on the complete opposite side where you are finding the leak.....

However, your MINI may have a faulty Solenoid valve....THAT IS on the pass side front....they definitely have had issues and may even be covered under a campaign or in some cases where it's a wide spread problem MINI extends the warranty on parts like this....










Valve Part no. 1

 

Baron MINI
9000 Shawnee Mission Pkwy
Merriam KS 66202


Could also be timing chain tensioner....there are campaigns on that for sure. Metal crush gasket leaks and tensioner bolts have updated
part number. #4 below....

 

Thanks guys, I have an appointment with the mini dealer shop tomorrow morning. Fingers crossed!

 

Would this cause both issues by chance? Seems related to my engine code regarding cam timing.

 

After you get this issue sorted, start asking about from other MINI people in your area for a top notch independent MINI shop then make him your best friend. Independents will do everything they can to FIX things rather than just throw new (expensive) parts at problems and hope that does the job.

 

Update: Car went in this morning, came out this evening. Timing chain tensioner, as was suspected by grey raven. It was causing the leak and the lower oil level caused the CEL for the cam timing. All was fixed and the tech found no damage to the chain itself. All in all good news. Fixed the tensioner, did an oil change, all told $535. Money I didn't want to spend, but it could have been much worse. Thanks to everyone here for the guidance! Car is running great now.