So recently I noticed that I get a bit of smoke if I let my 2010 R56S idle for a few minutes. Based on some other threads I've read here I'm suspecting either my valve cover or valve seals.

I don't have the equipment to properly replace the seals, but I figure I can do the valve cover (and it can't hurt to just replace the thing anyway since I've got about 87k miles on the car). My question is should I go with the one from Mini or are the aftermarket ones any good?

 

The aftermarket ones from reputable sellers are every bit as good as the oem mini ones, so it depends if you want to spend a couple of hundred extra for the cosmetics of the Mini logo under the hood.

 

Couldn't care less about the logo lol. Just wanted to see if there was a preference for a specific one.

 

"Some" smoke from a 2010 R56 is par for the course isnt it? Depends how much I guess. If its not clear that it needs replacing personally I'd spend the money on oil catch cans to try to slow the inevitable carbon build up on the valves if that hasnt already been done.

If it really needs replacing ECS tuning have about three aftermarket ones to choose from. Couldnt tell you the pros and cons though.

 

Yeah so I've read... I've already got a catch can that I haven't installed yet. But I figure it can't hurt to do this since it looks like a pretty cheap and easy job.

 

I went aftermarket no issues it was like $60. An if you really want the logo you can buy that too lol.

 

Can't help with a supplier, but when installing, use a bit of RTV or something similar at the two corners where the cover goes over the vacuum pump and HPFP. These locations tend to leak oil easily.

 

I am running the HT N14 valve cover with no problems we sell. The oem failed and leaked in the middle. Also after install i have seen less blow by in the system that would give you a stumble or little smoke. So my PCV was stuck or full of gunk.

 

2008 Cooper N12. Valve cover helped. Valve seals fixed the issue. No oil consumption now with 247,000 miles. I do change my oil every 3000 miles though.