I had my 2011 Clubman S's Timing chain replaced by a GM Mechanic and now the car will not start. Mechanic is saying that I need new ECU but I have done some research and that seems confusing unless I am missing something. He said that my ECU connectors were corroded from steam from before I had my Thermostat/Housing replaced. That would make this 3 seemingly-unrelated issues one after another.

Here is chronology:

1 - had Mini Dealer check computer and found Thermostat issue

2 - had GM Dealer replace Thermostat Unit and Mount.

3 - Got check engine light after and codes pointed to Timing (death rattle).

4 - Had Timing Chain completely replaced.

5 - Mechanic can not start after reassembly with new timing chain.

6 - Mechanic says I need new ECU as 'it's corroded from steam' (Thermostat)

Any thoughts?

 

It would seem suspicious to me that the car would start prior to the timing chain issue, and not after such. If there was a steam issue, I would not expect the massive coincidence of its first manifestation to happen after such a significant operation as a timing chain.

It is possible, but I would image there to be something unplugged more than I would expect the ECU to have gone out at such a coincidental time. Will the car turn over at all? or does it just behave as if it is dead. It sounds like an error in reassembly.

 

I don't want to sound crass or insult the GM technician your using but I'd personally find another mechanic ASAP. The ECU connections have an environmental seal and are also partially enclosed by the cover. Many Mini owners including myself open the hood scoop to allow more cooling air into the engine bay. We all drive thru rain on a fairly regular basis allowing water to spray all over the hot engine, turbo charger and wire harness. Never had a problem even in torrential downpours. If the connectors are slightly corroded (possible) simply spray them with contact cleaner and plug/unplug them a few times. The most likely culprit is that the cams are not timed properly. It requires special tooling and "close enough" doesn't cut it.

 

I have not been able to find a used ECU for my mini VIN.

Does anyone know where I could find one besides EBay?

I also checked RealOEM but couldn't figure out if they had one or not.

VIN TY35240

 

I am talking to my mechanic tomorrow but another mechanic said it didnt crank at all. would that sound like an ECU issue or something else?

 

The car should crank even if the ECU is not present. Also, buying a used ECU will NOT get your car to start because of programming and security. Finally, did they check wiring to the starter and grounds and all?
after finally, why would you have a GM mechanic work on MINI?

 

What do you mean by not cranking? Would the engine turn over and try to start or did nothing happen at all?
I had a no start issue that was traced back to the VANOS system. AN end stop pin backed out causing the intake valves to remain closed. It was a defect from when the engine was being assembled. This might be your issue.

BTW my car is a 2011 as well; a February build.