Just bough used 07 mini, gave me code p0012 I pulled the VANOS and discovered metal flakes on it. What dose it mean? Is my engine no good? Thanks for you input!

 

If the engine is NOT knocking or making any weird noises, I suspect that the car had the timing chain broken and/or the upper rail guard fail.

What do you know about the work done on the engine?

 

Any other symptoms with P0012? Is it a Cooper or Cooper S?

 

No history on maintenance done to the car. It's not the S. it also has code P0301 and p0012

 

For P0012, I'd suggest checking your timing. I've seen this code with non-s MINI's on the forum resulting in a timing issue. The misfire and that code leads me to think it may be a timing issue. Check post #10 and #11 for more info here: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-actuator.html. Definitely diagnose the issue before throwing parts at it. Let us know what you find out.

 

I will have to look at that and check it. I also noticed a puff of white smoke at start up. What can that be?

 

White smoke is typically an indication of coolant. Inspect for coolant leaks. If it's the thermostat, it typically pools on top of the transmission housing. This tech article can help you track down a coolant leak if needed: http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti..._Leak_Test.htm.

 

You probably didn't do a pre purchase inspection, now you should do a post purchase inspection. Find out all the things you are going to be spending money on instead of doing the slow wallet drain.