BlueMiniac , 09-13-2019 07:46 AM

Help me determine what’s wrong with my mini!! Just the other day I started it (cold) and it gave me 3 large knocks (like something was in there!! Is it a gnome?!) I was surprised by that. Then it happened again 3 days later while driving at slow speed. Front right, sounds like it’s in the glove box. Any ideas??? Now have CHECK ENGINE LIGHT on 😢
she has 100k miles on her

 

Hate to repeat myself but what codes are you getting? Has the timing chain been rattling? Has the chain ever been replaced? It is entirely possible you have a broken top guide on the chain. Knocking is not a good symptom but with a CEL on I would stop running that engine until it is checked out. If timing jumps one tooth your valves are toast. Chain lifespan is anything from 50-80K miles even though BMW do not have it as a service item, when they go or the guides shatter it is catastrophic.

 

I apologize for having you repeat, haven’t seen anything here to answer my post.

no code when checking the CEL. timing chain and guides were done @MiNi about 50,000 miles back. Just did second valve job October 2018. Not at all looking for that kind of repair. No drivability change in the car, just the thumping noise 4x. Do the cars have belts in that area, it almost sounds like one is fraying...

 

Took it to Mini and they say it’s the Thermostat housing...and they are still unsure about the knocking sound. Post again when I have more info.