N18 Reliability
 

I am quiclky approaching to that magic 50k mark, and the way I am driving now i feel like I'll be hitting 60K by the end of the year, so at this point I am comtemplating whether to keep it as a daily driver, buy a beater and keep the mini on the side, or trade it in for another mini, or other car. Being a college student I know I won't be able to afford big repairs if something major goes wrong. So those with high mileage N18's have any input or advice?

Has your MINI been trouble free up to this point?

I've had my N18 MCS for two years and only two issues that killed my joy a coupe times was the thermostat and something else(not that major). Other than that, great car and I take care of him! I wouldn't expect a timing chain or something too major to happen besides normal wear and tear stuff such as water pump, trans fluid flush, spark plugs and maintenance stuff. Good luck in your decision! BTW I have 50K on my N18.

Do any of you have the carbon issues that ive read a lot about on here? Where you have to go in and get it cleaned.. Walnut blasted.. Im curious on that..lol.

Nope. My car still runs like a champ. But I plan to get that done around 85K miles.

Awesome...that's good news.. I was very curious about that.. maybe the N18 doesn't have the problem as bad as others.. The reason I was asking was I was thinking on purchasing a new 2013 MCS but don't want the added cost of the carbon thing if it becomes something that has to be done a lot!!
Thanks!!:thumbsup:

Zippy read this long thread and maybe it will help with whether or not there will be a build up of carbon.
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...buildup-4.html

Let me tell you this so you remember, carbon buildup will always happen no matter what direct engine you have. You can try to reduce it from building up on the valves but these N18 engines seem to have reduced it quite a bit. Of course you'll need to eventually do a walnut blast but not anytime soon. My valves are not covered completely or bad at all. I should have took the picture when I have the cover off awhile ago. I just don't believe you need to waste $170+ for a OCC, IMO. But read that article above my post, it'll help you understand it more.

Only 24k miles here...

1200 miles here and my engine didn't blow up (yet), yay!

112,xxx miles. Only two peoblems so far. Timing chain @91k ($2000) and "severe" carbon issues @111k ($4000). Deal with your PCV system now while you can.

You have a 2011+?

Judging by his previous posts about the issue, he actually has an '08 with the N14 engine.

Yes it has, only has been to the dealership for recalls, oil changes and service, but no problems so far

Thanks Braminator.. that was very helpful..

Thanks RobMuntean for your input on this carbon topic..I understand it a lot better now..lol..

One thing for sure to help slow down the build up is to run it hard close to redline at least once a week IMO.

+1 and consistent oil changes too