Just wondering about several problems all related.

Can we gather some notes on if you have had carbon problems?
If you have a catch can, how much does it catch?
When did you do your first oil change, 15K dealer or earlier?

A hypothesis is a root cause of poorly seated rings. One reason could be how the engine was broken in. I did the 6000 miles, variable speed, never over 4K and my first oil change at about 5K. I have not added the catch can yet and have no idea if I have any internal problems at about 18K.

 

no carbon issues at 14500 on my 09 S, and I know a few people with much higher mileage R56's in my area that do not have this problem. despite what the so-called experts on this forum may think, I still beleive it's a regional issue.

no catch can

Broke it in as per the instructions, but did a little more high-revving during this time. Did my first oil change (on my dime) when I had my JCW tune kit installed at 1200 miles. about every 5-7500K after that, but then I drive the snot out of it because it is such a high-strung car.