Hi Everyone,

I picked up a 2007 Cooper S back in May after two very clean PPIs and unfortunately this past week I started to experience a slightly rough idle and pulled a P1497 code. I did some research and yesterday I took the Valve Cover off, cleaned around the surface points of the cover, and replaced the gasket. The code went away for all of 4 hours but now its back - I think I'm just going to replace the whole valve cover as I think the subtle "air" noise is coming from the internal PCV piece - Correct me if you think my assumptions here are wrong.

I was curious if the community had any tips on preventative maintenance I should be doing while I have the valve cover off? The timing chain seemed alright, but I wasn't exactly sure what I should be looking for with the cover off.

For context, my Mini has about 89,000 miles and I had an oil change as well as the walnut blast done about a month ago, so I know the rough idle and code isn't from carbon build up.

I can post some pictures of the internals once the Valve Cover comes in if that seems like the proper next step!

Thanks to everyone in advance, this community has been a fantastic resource throughout my first few months of ownership, looking forward to contributing some knowledge down the road as well!

 

If you are going to replace the valve cover, also replace the tube that goes from the back of the cover to the intake manifold. Those get brittle as they age, and can leak.

Checking the timing chain involves making sure the upper guide is still intact, and checking the chain for stretch. Checking the stretch involves removing the tensioner at the back of the head and using the special tool.

 

Not sure you have to replace the whole valve cover. I think the red "flapper?" can be purchased separately and installed. I second the comments above regarding the PVC time and timing chain and guides inspection. If you have a borescope, you can use it to look deep down to the bottom of the timing chain to ensure everything looks good.

 

Hey thanks for the reply guys, still waiting on the Valve Cover to be delivered, but I'll definitely inspect the timing chain and share some pictures once the Valve Cover is off.

 

Probably wouldn’t hurt to change the coil packs and spark plugs, while you are there.

 

Have you checked everything between the throttle body and the engine? That 1497 code usually indicates an air leak "downstream" of the throttle body. Look for air leaks, especially under hoses that have nylon wrapping, which can disguise a brittle hose crack.