Anyone do their own exhaust replacement?
We have a 2008 Mini Cooper S Conv R52 we just bought and it has a manifold and exhaust leak. Got a local quote of $2200 just for parts.

Thanks for the help!

 

I'm not exactly sure what you're asking. Plenty of people here have changed their own exhausts, including me. It's doable.

If you do all genuine parts for the entire system, that's probably about the right price.

 

Depending on where the leak is, it might be a really cheap repair. The weld at the precat is a common point of failure on problems like this. You might be able to have the manifold repaired by a muffler shop or someone who welds for around $50 if it doesn’t have to come out. If it’s broken all the way you’ll have to mark it before removing to make sure it’s lined up correctly after welding.

You probably can find a used manifold for $100-$200 if the manifold is beyond repair, but I would still get the weld reinforced before putting it in the car.

Also, check your motor mounts because excessive engine movement could be the stress that caused the failure.

Here are a few links:

Post #8 in this thread says it can be repaired on the car: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ml#post4524043


This is one shows the precat completely broken: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-manifold.html

 

For the exhaust leak part you are best to go aftermarket and will gain you power and good sound. Plus they are on sale right now.
https://www.waymotorworks.com/millte...52-cabrio.html

For the manifold there are several options
the stock will be the tried and true and give you no check engine light
https://www.waymotorworks.com/stock-...0-r52-r53.html

Or you can go aftermarket but you may or may not get a check engine light as the aftermarket are going to have high flow cats
https://www.waymotorworks.com/flashp...eader-cat.html

https://www.waymotorworks.com/millte...fold-pipe.html

https://www.waymotorworks.com/quicks...fold-pipe.html