Mini Cooper base issues @ 98K
#1
Mini Cooper base issues @ 98K
Posting this looking for assistance and another set of eyes.
So as of Friday I have a new issues loss of power along with rough idle and visible soot being blown out of the muffler. If RPM's are under 3K I have a difficult time getting above 30MPH also suffering from a random misfire.
So far no codes were generated!!!
Now for the back story, Its a 2011 with 98,000 miles on it and for the past six months I have had codes P0599 for the thermostat control circuit, and a p0420 for a catalytic system below threshold. Car is also suffering from the normal BMW/Mini issues i.e. coolant leaks from water pump.
Yesterday I did some checking and plugs were covered in soot (surprise!!) these were changed around 85,000 miles due to a random misfire.
Did some running evaluations with the scangauge and running issues and visible carbon was only occurring during closed loop operation.
Checked catalytic converter with an infrared thermometer and exhaust tubing was showing 540-600 degrees prior to catalytic converter and about the same right after catalytic converter.
Also Pulled pre catalytic oxygen sensor and discover it was packed in carbon as well.
Ran both plugs and oxygen sensor through a ten minute ultrasonic bath with denatured alcohol.
Upon reinstall and 2nd round of testing had about 5 minutes where car was running with rough idle, visible carbon, and misfire then cleared.
right now car is running at 90% still have a slight loss of power but no carbon and no misfire. I am also able to do well over 30MPH with no issues
At this point I am suspecting a faling pre catalytic converter oxygen sensor along with the catalytic converter being nonfunctional.
What's your thoughts and any other ideas probably will order a pre catalytic oxygen sensor. Also planning on addressing the coolant leak and thermostat issues as well.
Will also say I do love this car but not really thrilled with pretty much all of the exhaust emissions parts failing at this low of milage!!!
Chris
Adding VIN in hopes that the next potential buyer will find this info WMWSU3C54BT182709
So as of Friday I have a new issues loss of power along with rough idle and visible soot being blown out of the muffler. If RPM's are under 3K I have a difficult time getting above 30MPH also suffering from a random misfire.
So far no codes were generated!!!
Now for the back story, Its a 2011 with 98,000 miles on it and for the past six months I have had codes P0599 for the thermostat control circuit, and a p0420 for a catalytic system below threshold. Car is also suffering from the normal BMW/Mini issues i.e. coolant leaks from water pump.
Yesterday I did some checking and plugs were covered in soot (surprise!!) these were changed around 85,000 miles due to a random misfire.
Did some running evaluations with the scangauge and running issues and visible carbon was only occurring during closed loop operation.
Checked catalytic converter with an infrared thermometer and exhaust tubing was showing 540-600 degrees prior to catalytic converter and about the same right after catalytic converter.
Also Pulled pre catalytic oxygen sensor and discover it was packed in carbon as well.
Ran both plugs and oxygen sensor through a ten minute ultrasonic bath with denatured alcohol.
Upon reinstall and 2nd round of testing had about 5 minutes where car was running with rough idle, visible carbon, and misfire then cleared.
right now car is running at 90% still have a slight loss of power but no carbon and no misfire. I am also able to do well over 30MPH with no issues
At this point I am suspecting a faling pre catalytic converter oxygen sensor along with the catalytic converter being nonfunctional.
What's your thoughts and any other ideas probably will order a pre catalytic oxygen sensor. Also planning on addressing the coolant leak and thermostat issues as well.
Will also say I do love this car but not really thrilled with pretty much all of the exhaust emissions parts failing at this low of milage!!!
Chris
Adding VIN in hopes that the next potential buyer will find this info WMWSU3C54BT182709
Last edited by shorenetworks; 11-02-2015 at 08:06 AM. Reason: spelling errors
#3
#4
Then it doesn't seem like the soot is coming from oil blowby. As you have mentioned radiator fluid leaks, perhaps dealing with those might help although if they were directly causing a power loss there would be codes.
The plugs put in at 85k, they were exactly the right ones for the base model?
The only other thing I can think of is clogged exhaust, and you mentioned checking the cat temps but I am still wondering about that because of the power loss.
*Perhaps loading the tank with some upper cylinder lubricant/fuel system cleaner and going for a 300 mile highway trip might help?
The plugs put in at 85k, they were exactly the right ones for the base model?
The only other thing I can think of is clogged exhaust, and you mentioned checking the cat temps but I am still wondering about that because of the power loss.
*Perhaps loading the tank with some upper cylinder lubricant/fuel system cleaner and going for a 300 mile highway trip might help?
Last edited by RockAZ; 09-08-2015 at 06:48 AM.
#5
See replies in Blue
Then it doesn't seem like the soot is coming from oil blowby. As you have mentioned radiator fluid leaks, perhaps dealing with those might help although if they were directly causing a power loss there would be codes. Agreed I am truly at a loss and disappointed that the ECU/DME is not posting codes
The plugs put in at 85k, they were exactly the right ones for the base model?
According to several sites Bosch ZR7SI332S Original Equipment Fine Wire Iridium Spark Plugs are the recommend replacement
The only other thing I can think of is clogged exhaust, and you mentioned checking the cat temps but I am still wondering about that because of the power loss. Yea I can help but wonder if the honeycomb matrix is plugged or collapsed at the bottom and making a bad problem worse
*Perhaps loading the tank with some upper cylinder lubricant/fuel system cleaner and going for a 300 mile highway trip might help?
The plugs put in at 85k, they were exactly the right ones for the base model?
According to several sites Bosch ZR7SI332S Original Equipment Fine Wire Iridium Spark Plugs are the recommend replacement
The only other thing I can think of is clogged exhaust, and you mentioned checking the cat temps but I am still wondering about that because of the power loss. Yea I can help but wonder if the honeycomb matrix is plugged or collapsed at the bottom and making a bad problem worse
*Perhaps loading the tank with some upper cylinder lubricant/fuel system cleaner and going for a 300 mile highway trip might help?
#7
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#8
Well, just one more thought from me - you started off stating 30% power loss on the butt dyno with uneven idle - that is significant that you brought back the idle and some of the power with cleaning the plugs and sensors. But 10% power loss on the butt dyno is subjective, (on a justa you are talking about, what? 12hp?) hard to nail down without more science. I mean you could lose that much from a sticking brake caliper. For instance, a full compression test on the cylinders might give you some numbers.
I still would fix the leaks and go for a long drive with some cleaner in the tank, maybe you just picked up some bad gas a few times?
I still would fix the leaks and go for a long drive with some cleaner in the tank, maybe you just picked up some bad gas a few times?
#9
Update,
Issue reoccurred today with no codes again. shutdown car and disconnected MAF with no change in operation. drove for another 5 miles then reconnected MAF and disconnected pre catalyst oxygen sensor still no change in operation, and NO Codes!!
don't know if in the global parts bin the ECU/DME is shipping from China, Russia, or India but really should be giving some sort of code.
Car is now at Mini of Mt Laurel awaiting evaluation. Time to hold onto my wallet!!
Issue reoccurred today with no codes again. shutdown car and disconnected MAF with no change in operation. drove for another 5 miles then reconnected MAF and disconnected pre catalyst oxygen sensor still no change in operation, and NO Codes!!
don't know if in the global parts bin the ECU/DME is shipping from China, Russia, or India but really should be giving some sort of code.
Car is now at Mini of Mt Laurel awaiting evaluation. Time to hold onto my wallet!!
#10
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#14
Why you want to pay dealers insane prices is a mystery, not a good way to hold on to your wallet! It takes ten minutes to change out an O2 sensor and you can more than half the price for the thermostat housing install at a Mini independent specialty shop. Your oil could be coming from the valve guides, that would require a rebuilt head, get a second opinion because most don't trust dealers! Most are dishonest and over priced!
Of course they want you to buy a new car, so they can fix up and sell it. They won't give you hardly anything for the trade-in, so they can fix up your car and sell it for a larger profit than they make selling new cars. Walk away and don't look back!
Of course they want you to buy a new car, so they can fix up and sell it. They won't give you hardly anything for the trade-in, so they can fix up your car and sell it for a larger profit than they make selling new cars. Walk away and don't look back!
Last edited by Systemlord; 09-11-2015 at 11:57 AM.
#15
Anyone else,
Not a fan of the dealership myself would much rather do my own repairs. However some issues like what I am dealing with at the moment are over my head and to be honest time available. My local mechanic is not really a fan of working on the mini because let's face it the car is quite a PIA to work on due to space, layers of components, and BMW specific tools.
Not a fan of the dealership myself would much rather do my own repairs. However some issues like what I am dealing with at the moment are over my head and to be honest time available. My local mechanic is not really a fan of working on the mini because let's face it the car is quite a PIA to work on due to space, layers of components, and BMW specific tools.
#16
Anyone else,
Not a fan of the dealership myself would much rather do my own repairs. However some issues like what I am dealing with at the moment are over my head and to be honest time available. My local mechanic is not really a fan of working on the mini because let's face it the car is quite a PIA to work on due to space, layers of components, and BMW specific tools.
Not a fan of the dealership myself would much rather do my own repairs. However some issues like what I am dealing with at the moment are over my head and to be honest time available. My local mechanic is not really a fan of working on the mini because let's face it the car is quite a PIA to work on due to space, layers of components, and BMW specific tools.
#17
#18
Bringing to a 2nd mechanic this weekend and also looking into autotrader as there offering 4800 for the car as is.
If my mechanic thinks the car can be repaired this list below is what Im planning on having him address
1. coolant system refresh (pump, thermostat, ridge tube behind block, expansion tank, all hoses and cap)
2. oxygen sensor
3. repair oil leak (from sensor )
4. do the justa's have a vacuum pump? and is it an issue might replace this so the motor wont kill it's self after doing all this work
Chris
If my mechanic thinks the car can be repaired this list below is what Im planning on having him address
1. coolant system refresh (pump, thermostat, ridge tube behind block, expansion tank, all hoses and cap)
2. oxygen sensor
3. repair oil leak (from sensor )
4. do the justa's have a vacuum pump? and is it an issue might replace this so the motor wont kill it's self after doing all this work
Chris
#19
Bringing to a 2nd mechanic this weekend and also looking into autotrader as there offering 4800 for the car as is.
If my mechanic thinks the car can be repaired this list below is what Im planning on having him address
1. coolant system refresh (pump, thermostat, ridge tube behind block, expansion tank, all hoses and cap)
2. oxygen sensor
3. repair oil leak (from sensor )
4. do the justa's have a vacuum pump? and is it an issue might replace this so the motor wont kill it's self after doing all this work
Chris
If my mechanic thinks the car can be repaired this list below is what Im planning on having him address
1. coolant system refresh (pump, thermostat, ridge tube behind block, expansion tank, all hoses and cap)
2. oxygen sensor
3. repair oil leak (from sensor )
4. do the justa's have a vacuum pump? and is it an issue might replace this so the motor wont kill it's self after doing all this work
Chris
#20
My suggestion is to fix it yourself, for way cheaper than a mechanic, or the cost of replacing the car. You will learn quickly that not only is the dealer the most expensive possible route, but there is no guarantee of quality work just because they have a Mini sign.
Those issues are very fixable in your driveway with basic tools and a weekend, especially with how many DIY videos and guides there are these days.
Those issues are very fixable in your driveway with basic tools and a weekend, especially with how many DIY videos and guides there are these days.
#21
+1 on DIY. With lots of great DIY threads on here coupled with what we have with our articles here, you'd just be out on parts and your time. Can search for your parts HERE to compile a list to see what pricing would be and if you decide to do this you can use COOPER promo code at the end for select OE brands to help save you money. Otherwise, if you decide to trade it in for a new one, good luck and hope you get into another MINI!
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#22
So had a conversation with my mechanic and DIY or paying him opinion is still the same. The N18 motor is a pain to support and is still suffering its fair share of issues.
Coolant system issues, Valve Cover issues ( both leaking and breathing issues )
Electrical issues why is my car having a failing O2 and MAF @ 4.5 years and 98K miles these are issues that will arise on an older car but not both at the same time.
Vanos issues leaking actuator 2nd time for issues with this system.
So in the end the car is more along the lines of a 10 year old car and he thinks it will be a $$ pit going forward.
Also as to keeping the car if these problems are so minor and easy to fix why has there been no interest in buying my car via the forums. because no one knows the long term durability of this motor yet.
If no one is willing to buy my car here for 3500.00 its another strike against this car.
Love this car brand ( till about three weeks ago ) and you guys but i must move away from the family think my days of owning European brands are over too much cost in keeping them on the road. Even the new BMW 1.5 triple's have been puking oil before even hitting there first service.
Will be taking the car this week to a wholesale car buyer to see what they will give me. After that thinking Honda Fit, or Mazda 3 hatchback Grand Touring.
Coolant system issues, Valve Cover issues ( both leaking and breathing issues )
Electrical issues why is my car having a failing O2 and MAF @ 4.5 years and 98K miles these are issues that will arise on an older car but not both at the same time.
Vanos issues leaking actuator 2nd time for issues with this system.
So in the end the car is more along the lines of a 10 year old car and he thinks it will be a $$ pit going forward.
Also as to keeping the car if these problems are so minor and easy to fix why has there been no interest in buying my car via the forums. because no one knows the long term durability of this motor yet.
If no one is willing to buy my car here for 3500.00 its another strike against this car.
Love this car brand ( till about three weeks ago ) and you guys but i must move away from the family think my days of owning European brands are over too much cost in keeping them on the road. Even the new BMW 1.5 triple's have been puking oil before even hitting there first service.
Will be taking the car this week to a wholesale car buyer to see what they will give me. After that thinking Honda Fit, or Mazda 3 hatchback Grand Touring.
#23
#24
So After having two professinal opinions on the car I have decided to move forward with a replacement Mini.
I traded in this past Friday for a 2015 F56 and I will say it was a bittersweet moment because this car was the first one I was truly happy with until the issues noted here started.
I wish whoever gets the car is able to bring her back, If your finding this thread please PM me as I would love to see what you do. For me it just came down to time, its been a crazy year with buying a house/remodeling/fixing stuff for everyone/work.
To everyone here in the 2nd gen forums thanks for your help and hope to see you soon.
#SaveTheWave
I traded in this past Friday for a 2015 F56 and I will say it was a bittersweet moment because this car was the first one I was truly happy with until the issues noted here started.
I wish whoever gets the car is able to bring her back, If your finding this thread please PM me as I would love to see what you do. For me it just came down to time, its been a crazy year with buying a house/remodeling/fixing stuff for everyone/work.
To everyone here in the 2nd gen forums thanks for your help and hope to see you soon.
#SaveTheWave
#25
Mini power, 02, and soot issues
So After having two professinal opinions on the car I have decided to move forward with a replacement Mini.
I traded in this past Friday for a 2015 F56 and I will say it was a bittersweet moment because this car was the first one I was truly happy with until the issues noted here started.
I wish whoever gets the car is able to bring her back, If your finding this thread please PM me as I would love to see what you do. For me it just came down to time, its been a crazy year with buying a house/remodeling/fixing stuff for everyone/work.
To everyone here in the 2nd gen forums thanks for your help and hope to see you soon.
#SaveTheWave
I traded in this past Friday for a 2015 F56 and I will say it was a bittersweet moment because this car was the first one I was truly happy with until the issues noted here started.
I wish whoever gets the car is able to bring her back, If your finding this thread please PM me as I would love to see what you do. For me it just came down to time, its been a crazy year with buying a house/remodeling/fixing stuff for everyone/work.
To everyone here in the 2nd gen forums thanks for your help and hope to see you soon.
#SaveTheWave
Last edited by Brian Rathbun; 05-01-2017 at 10:24 PM. Reason: Clarification