So I have a 2012 JCW R55 Clubman with 46000 miles on the car, but only 6000 miles on a new engine.
Just got it back 2 weeks ago from dealer for issue with brakes. A week after picking the car up, the tone of the engine changed slightly. There is no CEL, no noticeable loss of power. Just sounds rough. Weirdest thing ever.
This is the N14 engine, basically stock with the exception of a K&N Typhoon CAI. Planned on going on a run with the club this weekend. But now I'm concerned. Any ideas are welcome.

 

oil level? (always first place i start on these wonderful cars)

Do you know if they had to remove the CAI while servicing? Maybe you have an air leak?

 

I checked the oil and it was fine. My CAI was installed by a K&N tech as they used my car for fitment improvement. Hasn't budged since. (The only service since the CAI was installed was for brake noise).
Ended up taking to the dealer. Hate to miss the run this weekend, but don't feel like taking any chances hurting the motor, or getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with a hefty tow bill. Should find out something either today or Monday.

 

What did happen you needed an engine at 40K? Was this performed under warranty?

 

#3 cylinder piston ring self destructed, destroying the cylinder. Completely covered under warranty. Admittedly I'm a little paranoid now.

 

I understand. In a similar event, I would have traded the car for something else and completely lost my trust in the brand.

 

FYI... The weird noise turned out to be the alternator, grinding on the inside. Dealer quoted $1800 to replace including labor. I don't need a gold plated alternator. I mean it must be gold plated for that price. Regardless, going to have to park the car for a while. Bad time for a big repair bill. Such is life.

 

You are definitely out of luck with this car.

 

When they replaced the engine, they would have swapped over your existing alternator. It’s not a stretch that it could
have gotten dropped or damaged in the process.

 

Kind of pleased with the dealer. Got a call this morning, and they are going to replace the alternator for $600.00 out the door. Considering the possibilities, that was good news for a change.

 

Glad to hear that. At least they partial admitted their mistake by that gesture.

 

Nope not gold at all. It’s made from unobtanium which is an ultra rare alloy refined from unicorn droppings.

 

I should have known! Well, the dealer dropped the cost down to $229.00. At least this is done.