Just curious about replacing an o ring on a vacuum pump instead of replacing the whole thing as price wise this makes sense. Is there any reason not to go this route? Should the pump be replaced at certain intervals? Is there anything I should look for when I take it off that would indicate a need to replace the whole pump? Sorry for all the questions I am new to mini and just want to make a sound decision but, if of I can save money while doing it then that's a bonus. I just don't want to destroy the motor because of a freaking vacuum pump. Thanks in advance, Mini noob.

 

I assumed you have N14 engine. I put few vendors that sell the whole thing. you can spend anywhere from 110 to 400...better safe than sorry:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/show...18#11667556919

http://www.rmeuropean.com/Products/1...244-V6353.aspx

https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/min...mp-11667556919

http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/...on=11667556919

http://waymotorworks.com/vacuum-pump-r55-r56-r57.html

 

Due to the fact that there has been so many engine failures from vacuum pumps locking up if we see one leaking we just have the rule to replace the entire pump. It may cost more up front, but a lot cheaper than an engine.
https://www.waymotorworks.com/vacuum...5-r56-r57.html

 

I bought a cheap R56 with a catastrophically failed vacuum pump that caused significant engine damage. The car had 96,000 miles on it. I'd suggest replacing them every 75,000 miles. A simple to replace, $150 part every 5 or 6 years is NOTHING.

 

Just a question for those who know.....is this vacuum pump known to fail on the N18 engines? I am at almost 75k on my 2011 N18, thus the question.

 

Thanks for the response everyone. That was kind of what I was figuring but if I could save some money that's always nice.. I have a couple other leaks that look like they may cost a little too. That's why I asked.

 

I just bought a new Pierburg vacuum pump for my N14 on Pelican Parts, and I'll be installing it this weekend. $120, great deal.

 

Signs of a faulty pump are: low brake booster vacuum, hard brake pedal, and brake fade during application when stopped. The brake booster hose nipple on the pump can also show signs of a problem. Look for melted or overheated plastic. We have a really great tech article that can help you with its replacement here: http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...eplacement.htm. Let me know if you have any questions.

Appreciate your purchase. If you ever need anything please don't hesitate to shoot me a PM.

 

delete the stupid pump and be done with it, that's the real fix