Hello all. I bought my first Mini in November 2013. It's an 09 JCW.
Have enjoyed it up to now. Turbo has failed with only 68,000 miles on it. I thought I had an extended warranty, but turns out it was just for routine maintenance. I've been reading on this forums about the exact same problem I am having. Oil feed line clogged, turbo impellers self destruct and the bearing freezes. From what I read, now (and not before I bought the car) this is a common issue and some of you have gotten Mini to replace without any cost.

Since I've been quoted a $4,000 estimate, I thought I would see if anyone knows the best way to state my case to Mini.

Should I just give up and put a re manufactured turbo on the car? Looking for some advice. Thank you for reading.

 

I would try Mini first, you have nothing to lose.

 

I guess it never hurts to ask but don't get your hopes up. I have not heard of MINI covering an out of warranty turbo failure.

The repair can be done cheaper. Independant MINI shops charge less than the dealer. Or if you are mechanical, you can DIY. Its not that hard to do. There are several aftermarket turbo suppliers online. I got mine from www.jmturbocoopers.com

 

$4000 grand is nuts when a replacement part is 1/4 the price, check out JM Turbo upgrade 360 degree bearing, he offers something better than even a new turbo with the stock bearing! Last night after driving 40 miles I pull into my carport and let it idle for 8 minutes before turning off, the amount of heat flowing under my Mini is intense.

 

My JCW went through 2 Turbos in a space of 12 000 miles. Same problem, impeller seizing.
I don't abuse my car at all and I always let it idle before turning off as precautionary.
Car has also never been modded.

Good luck, this isn't a car you want to own without warranty.

 

I think a part mini replaces covers 2 years guarantee.
Get the warranty report of the car and check if the turbo was replaced before you bought the car.