just wanted to see what basic things i should expect to repalace or need fixing. bought the car 2 months ago used with about 38k car has been driving like a gem so far but i want to know what problems the community knows of when these cars get around 40K miles.

thanks

 

A second job to prepare your wallet for upcoming repairs. Kidding, kind of, I have 72k on my MCS and I absolutely love it. Things that require attention or replacement:

Belts and hoses, although your car is still young.

Keep your oil fresh and make sure it's regularly checked and topped off.

Spark plug refresh wouldn't hurt.

Air filter.

Inspect for oil leaks, turbo oil line, valve cover, oil/heat exchange (not sure of the actual name), oil filter housing and vacuum pump. I had all of these leak oil and repaired on my own.

Carbon cleaning of intake valves.

Monitor HPFP fuel rail pressure.

Check cooling system for leaks.

Brakes and fluid.

Not saying that all Minis are plagued with these issues but mine was. I've remedied all of the above and I now absolutely LOVE my R56. Mods and a tune have certainly added to what an amazing little go cart it is.

 

Would help to know if N14 or N18. From what I've read (haven't experienced yet) is the N18 doesn't have near the carbon build up issue.

 

Yes, what year R56 do you have?

 

sorry guys i thought i said the year, 2011 so i have the n18

 

Yes, the carbon build up is not as bad as the N14's, but you'll still want to keep an eye on it as people are reporting a clean up at some point. The HPFP is also still a concern on the N18 as many individuals have reported an issue/replacement was needed for theirs here on the forum. Service Bulletin # 010116 info on that for the N18 HERE. Otherwise, be sure to keep up on routine maintenance needs and fix things when they need to be fixed. Check filters, plugs, belts, don't forget to do a coolant change at some point as that is an often neglected area on MINI's.

 

what do you recommend as a carb cleaner? One that I can do myself

 

Start saving for when you hit 50,000. By then you'll need brakes and a water pump. And be sure to change your oil every 5-7000 with a good synthetic oil. http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mobil-1-0W...ingMethod=p13n

 

just bought thew car used, brakes were done prior to me buying and i have a recipt from the previous owner for service work done, i should check on that water pump.

 

For carbon cleaning you can walnut blast the valves and intake ports or use a method that we highlight in our tech articles that you can use a long dull-end pick to scrape the residue off the valves. This will save you from having to buy the adapter and wand. You can view it at post #6 HERE.