Hey guys,

I've seen a few threads about various spark plugs, but I haven't seen anything about a specific brand. I went to Pep Boys to find replacement spark plugs since I've noticed a little bit of engine roughness and got a check engine light due to a misfire in one of the cylinders. Sure enough, they didn't have the stock plugs, but recommended as a replacement. I haven't been able to find a definitive answer as to whether these are okay or not.

Anyway, I got the four new spark plugs put in, and the engine sounded really rough. I discovered that cylinder 2 wasn't firing, so I put the old plug back in and it worked. Thinking I got a bad plug, I drove back and swapped the new plug for a different one thinking I had a defective one. When I put the new plug in, same thing - cylinder 2 wasn't firing. All the connections were secure, plugs snugly in, etc. I put the old plug back in cylinder 2, and it started working again.

Not sure what the issue is. Has anyone heard of anything like this?

EDIT: I should probably tell you guys I have an R53.

 

For a stock R53 Cooper S: NGK: BKR6EQUP or BKR6EIX Iridium tip

 

+1 on what finhead said plus: Make sure you torque them spot on. You've obviously not done much forum searching but had you you'd have read about plugs blowing out because of incorrect type and incorrect installation.

 

+1 on forum searching

Had you done that you'd also know the factory Ignition cap is prone to corrosion

Which can duplicate your symptoms

 

I use IK-20 DENSOs in Artoo, my 2003 R53. I have 150,000 miles with no problems. I torque them to 20ft/lbs with a COLD head. And check them every 5000 miles at each oil change.

///Rich

 

I checked the ignition caps and they were all good to go. I was searching the forum, but couldn't find anything on that specific brand. They list on their website that they do make plugs for the R53, but due to the overwhelming information I found in regards to the RKG plugs on the site, I went with BKR6EIX as Finhead suggested (changed them this morning). I have to go to the dealer today, so I'll have them double check the check engine light and reset.

 

Those look like champion plugs, definitely not OEM!
I know what the MINI recommendation is, but on these cars it’s not wise to go past 5k between oil changes, because of the turbo oil line getting coked up. They may say 10-12k, but there have been a lot of turbos replaced as well, and that oil line is at fault on several from what I’ve learned.

 

Mr G
Those look like an off-brand to me. I personally have no issues with Champion for normal use, but any other name-brand should be fine too.
Can you tell the heat range of that plug? If it's too hard or cold it might not fire up right away.

Edit: According to Amazon those are not the right plugs This does not fit your: 2002 Mini Cooper
S
1.6L L4 Gas