Well, I think I figured out why my car has been losing oil. I'm just embarrassed it took me so long to figure it out. I seem to be missing at least 4 bolts on my oil pan. Either they fell out or were not put back in. Either way I'm no longer going back to the mechanic who last changed my oil pan gasket.

Now I just need to figure out what bolts to put back in.

If someone could please advise me as to what type, size, length and thread of bolts to purchase to replaces the missing ones I would very much appreciate it. The specific ones missing are three of the rear bolts near the mounting bracket for an engine mount and the bolt around the corner of the pan, under the crank pulley. (see pictures for more details)

They have been missing for who knows how long and I am assuming that they can last for a trip to the hardware store and back, I hope. I am most shocked that I am losing as little oil as I have been. One would think that missing 4 bolts would cause significant leakage but I guess not.

As always, thanks for all the help !

 

Use realoem to figure out which bolts you will need. Best to get the bolts from Mini.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/showparts?id=RE33-USA-11-2004-R53-Mini-Cooper_S&diagId=11_3084

Thats a link to a 2005 R53, pretty sure all the oil sump bolts and pans are same for all, but best to plug in your exact year and model to confirm.

Hope the threads are okay, otherwise, you may be in for more of a challenge.

 

^^^^ good point. If they have been out a while (that you know of) you might want to chase the threads with a tap once you figure out the specs. just in case ang grime is up in there