Hi, Folks.

I'm having some MINIsery right now.

My 2009 MCS gave me a CEL and a noise, sort of a rhythmic thump from under the hood. Simultaneously I seemed to lose power. Long story short, I'd just had my timing chain and tensioner replaced a month ago, so I drove back home (it happened 5 min into my trip to work) and parked the car 'til I could get it towed to the dealer.

The service advisor called today and left a message saying that "so far" the water pump needs replacing. I didn't get to talk to him live since he was gone for the day by the time I got the message, but I plan to talk to him tomorrow. He said the tech wants to ask me some questions and get more info about the problem.

Is this a common thing with MCSs? From reading these boards, I've read about the intake manifold freezing up in cold temps (got mine replaced to newer design), timing belt and tensioner (got both replaced), hood scoop warp (got my chrome scoop replaced w/new heat shield beneath) and I have heard about issues with the fuel pump but I haven't had that yet.

Any guidance here? I'm getting really nervous my fellow MINIons. I fear the car, although I love it, is giving me a very unsettled feeling of unreliability. Any words of wisdom or cheer would be greatly appreciated!

 

They have had issues with the water pumps/friction wheels making noises. It looks like they may have fixed the "thumping" by replacing the pump. There is a bulletin out for it so it is pretty common. They also leak pretty regularly, it seams around 30k the front seals give out and start to lose coolant. If yours was leaking and you did not notice it will turn on SES light once it started to overheat. They do have issues but usually once you fix them they are usually gone for good ie. timing chain rattle. Or they are good for another few years ie. water pump/thermostat leaks.

 

^Thanks, Euro. I had no idea water pumps were also an issue. I appreciate the encouraging words.

This time it's a different MINI dealer and they double checked to make sure the dealer I took it to a month ago changed ALL parts related to timing chain (tensioner, rails, etc.). Turns out, they did it correctly. Now they're just waiting to road test and be sure no more CEL.

Additionally, MINI Roadside Assistance said they "always" flatbed MINIs but they sent a regular tow truck! I only had a small window of time to have it towed so he took it with the regular truck. The tow truck driver seemed proficient but I'm having the dealer check the car for issues caused by the towing. I once had a car that was towed a distance and the rear struts were blown and there were scrapes under the car. *sigh*