I'm having an issue figuring out how to remove the front (exhaust) solenoid valve on my 2011 R60 Countryman base with the N16 engine. Everything I've read starts off by saying to remove the 10mm bolt that holds the valve in place. My has no 10mm bolt that i can see, only a T25 Torx screw. I've removed that screw but that solenoid valve isn't budging and i dont want to break it.....

 

Yeah, that’s the screw. There are O-rings on it to seal, might have to just break those loose. Might have to just wiggle it while pulling out.

 

I've tried wiggling and lightly tapping it while doing so but no luck so far. I dont want to break anything (given the cost of MINI parts..) but i may just have to be a little more forceful.

 

Once that screw comes out, there isn't anything holding it in. If you have a new one on hand, just yank it out. I have replaced both mine, but I can't recall how much force was needed to pull them out.

 

Are the front and back solenoid valves identical?

 

Yes

 

Got it. Just took a little extra force. Maybe I'll tackle the one on the back side of the engine while I'm feeling lucky ....