So I fired up the mini this morning and it the engine was extremely loud as it started. Sounded like there were multiple things knocking and pinging. It was about 90 degrees out, and I had gotten gas (premium of course) from a gas station I don't normally frequent, but it was a shell regardless. Could it just be a spot of bad gas? Checked the oil/other fluids btw and they're all fine. Thanks for the help

 

chain/tensioner threads. Pronto.

 

Was it rough at idle??? I no when i used to believe in BMW's 20000km service intervals, my engine would be rough at idle and sound louder due to low levels of oil. Now I service way more frequently and the issue vanished.

 

X2... do a search and you’ll find out more than you want to know about it. I even posted a video on you tube about it.

They’ve had several, several fixes but never seem to get it right. I do believe they finally fixed it the last time. (I know because I’ve taken mine in half a dozen times.)

Mark

 

I echo the thoughts above. Get into the dealer and get the tensioner checked. I did mine last month, and car is so much quieter.

 

Thanks, is it safe to drive for the time being before I take it in next week?

 

If it is the tensioner, yeah you'll be fine honestly. Sooner = better. Just drive her easy.

 

Thanks everyone, I will try and make an appointment asap w/the nearest mini dealer. I'm still under factory warranty and the extended I bought from the dealer where I purchased my used mini so I should be alright

 

Took it to the dealer. That was indeed what was making the problem. Should be fixed tomorrow

 

Glad to hear you got it fixed.

Good news...

Mark

 

Good.

 

Is this issue still covered when the car is out of warranty? Because it seems to be such a huge problem did MINI/BMW make like a 100k mile warranty on just the tensioner?

Im guessing I know the answer is 'NO' but i figured id ask anyway.

 

I think the only way it would be covered out of warranty is if it is a recall. Right now, to the best of my knowledge, it's only a bulletin.

So, no...


Mark