I've recently had problems after problems with my Mini Cooper 09 convertible. Within the last couple months I've had to replace my thermostate housing (major coolant leak which was causing the engine to over heat and smoke up) & camshaft actuator.

I've also discovered an oil leak and had the vaulve cover gasket & vacuum pump o ring replaced. However there is still a leak! I am thinking it's coming from the oil housing, but would like some advice. I've spent upwards to $1300 for all of these replacements and would like an idea of how much this should cost to fix. The oil housing cap is wet, a hose close to it also looks very wet (is this a part of the oil housing?), and I can see splashes of oil around the area (see images below). What exactly needs to be replaced and how much should it cost? I am sick of that constant oil burning smell. Also there is some white smoke coming out from under my hood, typically only when I first start driving in the morning. This only began after having to replace the thermostat housing. Why is this happening? Is this burning oil?

 

I would check the o-ring on the filter cap. It's quick and easy and best of all free...unless you don't have a socket. However, that's only 10 bucks from your local parts store. The previous owner of my mini didn't replace the o-ring and it really looked like the housing was leaking. When I checked it out the o-ring was very flat. I also had a Volvo S40 that had the very same issue. The local mechanic wasn't changing the o-ring every time and it was leaking. Sorry for the long winded reply.

 

Yea, they might have dripped oil on the oil change, it's easy on the Gen 2 turbo MINIs to get it on the wires.

Check the oil filter cap and the gasket. On that cap should be a gasket, maybe they forgot to put one on?? Pull the cap off and see if the gasket is there. Also see if you can tigthen the cap down, maybe its just loose? Socket is 27 mm 6 point here: https://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/ES240947/

See that gasket rubber ring on the top of the threads.






https://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/11427557011/

Then check the gasket on the vacuum pump and if they sealed it on install as well as the valve cover.

My guess is its the oil cap and residue, and missing gasket

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/show...30#11427557011

#3 comes with a new cap or with the oil filter kit.



https://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/11427622446/