Hi everyone. First time mini owner. I've wanted one for a long time and the opportunity finally arrived to buy one. I bought a 2008 Mini Cooper clubman s. It has about 84k on it and it is in fantastic shape. This morning I replaced a leaking valve cover gasket and also took the opportunity to inspect the timing chain. All appears good. I've also done a fresh oil and filter change, new air and cabin filters, water pump with new coolant and new drive belt. The car runs great!

However, I noticed this morning that there is a knocking noise at idle from the engine. A friend of mine who is familiar with engines thinks it's a normal noise for this engine.

So I took a video for all of you to listen and I'm looking for opinions. Keep in mind, no check engine light and it runs and drives great.

Video...
http://vid675.photobucket.com/albums...pso2tpwzlw.mp4

 

I am not an expert. Please get other opinions before you take action. Since no one has posted: Sounds like death rattle, timing chain/tensioners about the fail and destroy your engine. You can search this site for more information "death rattle". I would not drive it until a mechanic that knows the MINI looks it over.

Good luck!

 

Oh, and post/look in the R56 forum. That is where you will get many more responses that this much more limited R55 group. Again, wishing you well!

 

Thanks! I just had the timing chain replaced at the dealer. Still makes the same noise but they said the engine is fine. It runs great so I just wont worry about it for now.

 

Just an update. The noise I'm hearing is coming from the vacuum pump driven by the exhaust camshaft. totally normal condition.

 

Glad it is not timing chain, you doged a bullet!