My 07 Cooper S needed a smog certification this year. I took it to a STAR station here in California forgetting that the check engine light that had been lit for a year (since I bought a second car and made the Mini a garage queen) was an automatic failure. Codes were: P0300 random/multiple cylinder misfire, P0302 cylinder 2 misfire, P0304 cylinder 4 misfire. Had it repaired at the dealer, they replaced the high pressure fuel valve and this cleared the check engine light. The dealer assured me that they had completed what they had to do so that I could take it directly back to the STAR station for a cert. I did, it failed, the reason: modified software. Long ago, in 2013, I had a dynotune done on the car when I was auto-crossing. It has passed every smog test since then until now. I have a phone appointment on June 23rd with a referee from the Bureau of Automotive Repairs to help resolve this issue.

My question for all of you experts: Is the modified software something the dealer did? Or is it possible that the long ago dynotune is why because emissions standards have become more stringent in the last two years? Should I bring up the dyntotune at all in my phone conversation with the referree since it is only my speculation and not supported by previous facts?

Thanks in advance for any feedback on how to figure this out.

Michele

 

I am no expert, but my understanding is they've started checking the software on more recent smog tests, and if it's modified they'll fail you. If you tell the referee you've gotten a dynotune you're literally telling him "I am breaking the law on emissions" so probably best not to do that.

Your best bet is probably to reflash the ECU to stock.

 

Thanks for your input Gubi.

Michele