Bought my 2011 Mini Cooper S R56 (N18) about 2 months ago. The car has 61,000 miles on it, and by the records that came with the car, has always been well taken care of.

As of the past week, I've been noticing that on cold starts in the morning, motor is extremely loud and with the hood open, seems to run pretty rough. Noise eventually goes away, yet still has me wondering what it is.

I've heard of the cold start issues, but I'm wanting to know if anyone thinks this is the dreaded chain rattle, I am not sure if the chains and guides have ever been replaced.

The car is still under the extended warranty that the previous owner purchased, so should I take it in? I just don't want to sound like an ******* to the dealership.

I did a video of it this morning, temp was about 11 here in Jersey. Video is below, and any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

I would take it in, and take full advantage of that extended warranty. My 2011 MCS N18 at almost 70k is a bit noisy, direct injection and all, but that definitely sounds ominous. Whatever that noise is, it needs to be fixed ASAP. And if you have the stock airbox assembly, I would suggest putting that back on before trying any kind of warranty claim. Don't give them any excuses to possibly void your warranty.