Have to say being a Shade tree mechanic has a whole new meaning when concerning Mini's. Had a code come up low oil pressure then disappear. This is the second time code has come up after extensive engine work. Had all plastic changed over to aluminum pertaining to coolant. new water pump,Thermostat, Timing chain, Turbo hoses, oil pan. Even had the valve cover changed over. When the code came up the first time took it back to the shop. They tested oil pressure and passed. Told us that it may have been a bit of debrie after the timing chain had been replaced. The second time this happened the warning came over the dash computer then dissappeared (now mind yout this is about 8mo since first time) We pulled over and checked the oil which was about a liter low after 5500 miles since last oil change. Took it back to the shop and they want $2500 to replace the oil pump. After watching some videos and reading the manuals, Im pretty confident on replacing it myself. Only question I have is concerning the chain. When the timing chain was replaced the mechanic stated that the oil chain was in good condition. So do I need to concern my self with new chain and drive sprocket or just reuse?

 

The oil chain should be fine.

"Hopefully" timing chain guides haven't been sucked up and caused any bearing damages... The N18 has an oil control solenoid on the pump, which had a TSB for the harness. I would double check the harness for oil seepage. If you plan on attacking, maybe change out the solenoid first?

 

Thanks for the input. When the timing chain was replaced the guides were 100% accounted for. The plastic was still intact. My thought was the solenoid also but if Im going to take it that far, Im going to do the pump also. Car has 120k on it and its my Wife's.... Keeping with the Happy Wife, Happy life aspect.

 

Minis are notorious for burning oil, but have you checked for external oil leaks?

 

I think that losing only a liter of oil after 5500 miles is extraordinarily good, especially for a mini.