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JCW GarageInterested in John Cooper Works (JCW) parts for your 2nd Generation MINI? This is where JCW upgrades and accessories for the MINI Clubman (R55), Cooper and Cooper S (R56), and Cabrio (R57) MINIs are discussed.
Been looking at new to me, used car for the last couple months and as of Saturday, I'm the proud new owner of a 2012 JCW.
Starting to go through the forums to find the best advice on what I'll need to keep an eye on, what typically goes wrong and what preventative parts I should start throwing at it now.
Car has had the water pump and thermostat along with fuel pump replaced last year. PPI mechanic indicated clutch is starting to get a little heavy (I had no clue as my last manual transmission was mated to a Spec stage 3 clutch in my mustang, 10 years ago).
Any recommendations? Going to try and keep it relatively stock for now and see where that goes.
I believe the 2012 JCW has the N14 engine (someone correct me if I’m wrong). I had an 08 with that engine and dealt with timing chain issues.....it was changed out 3 different times (on warranty) over the course of my ownership. The design may have been tweaked by 2010 or a new/better part may have come along at some point afterwards making it a non-issue.......just keep your ears tuned for a rattle on cold start up.....that’s how you’ll know.
The only other things I had go wrong over about 70k miles was needing a water pump and having to clean the intake valves which I walnut blasted myself around 60k miles.....they were caked with carbon.
I believe the 2012 JCW has the N14 engine (someone correct me if I’m wrong). I had an 08 with that engine and dealt with timing chain issues.....it was changed out 3 different times (on warranty) over the course of my ownership. The design may have been tweaked by 2010 or a new/better part may have come along at some point afterwards making it a non-issue.......just keep your ears tuned for a rattle on cold start up.....that’s how you’ll know.
The only other things I had go wrong over about 70k miles was needing a water pump and having to clean the intake valves which I walnut blasted myself around 60k miles.....they were caked with carbon.
Enjoy the new ride!
Fastlane, thanks for the input. It is the N14 from what I've read. Think the N18 was first installed in the 2013 or late production 2012s.
Wondering if my year is susceptible to mushrooming like the first generations and worthwhile to invest in defender plates or strut tower brace.
Any recommendations for technical reference on the car or the forums the best place for information regarding parts/numbers/etc?
Loving this thing so far and look for any excuse to take it out right now. 😁
I believe the mushrooming was more of an issue on the 1st gen cars. For the N14, in regards to the timing chain issues, make sure you have the updated tensioner. Keep an eye on the oil level, these cars consume a lot of oil especially as the miles get higher. As mentioned, if your car feels sluggish, may be time for a walnut blasting of the intake ports.
The best place for technical reference is this forum and Pelican Tech articles in my opinion. If you plan to DIY, the Bentley manual is a handy reference to own. Parts vendors - my go tos are ECS, Bavauto and used parts - the marketplace here.
Per my Mini dealer’s shop... Pay close attention to your oil. Change it regular and keep it topped off.
I try not to let mine get more than 1/2 qt low. I have a 2011 with the N14. You hear all kinds of things about the timing chains on these cars but mine just rolled 90,000 miles and is still running smooth. It does have a new clutch in it. It was replaced by the dealer I bought it from last December. Getting a tune on it Friday.
Good luck with your new ride.
Last edited by Skidude; Jun 6, 2018 at 04:37 PM.
Reason: Spelling eror
Is there an easy way to determine if I have the updated tensioner?
I think as soon as you purchase a mini, you should have a stamp applied to your forehead that says, "CHANGE YOUR F***** OIL!". Already took mine to a shop to get it done since I wasn't going to have the time and I've seen how important oil changes are on this forum. Also, picked up some Castrol Edge to keep in the trunk just in case I need to top it off when I'm out and about.
If you're asking about the chromed trim piece at the front of the hood, the problem isn't the clips, the plastic on the trim is too thin and it breaks at the mount points one by one. I just ordered a replacement part since mine was about to part ways with the car.
