I have just got my 03 MCS back on the road after a rod decided to make an abrupt exit from the engine.

I would like to know if others have had this problem. I had seen som complaints online about the 02 and 03 MCS's having internal engine failure early, but figured I would ask on the forum.

I did replace it with a 12,000 mile engine from an 04.

 

What did they say caused the rod problem?

 

It was too late to tell after the fact, I suspect I had a small head gasket leak and coolant pooled on top of the cylinder.

 

While the R53's are far from trouble free, there has not been internal engine failures beyond the moded or abused (as a trend).
Sorry for you problem but I think it is an isolated case.