Well, unfortunately I've now learned how much info is out there on the massive issues with the engine in my 2010 Clubman S, but haven't seen much in terms of fixing the actual design issue. Long story short, Mini and my dealer is refusing to fix unless I shell out $3800 in repairs, so I'm stuck doing them myself.








Before I sink that kind of money into this hopeless bottomless pit of a car I hate (Its $10k negative equity means I'm stuck) I'd like to see if there is an aftermarket approach to rebuilding this thing.... performance, reinforced, etc.


Anyone have any info I can be directed to on what can be done to eliminate this in the future?

 

I've been following this and other Mini forums for the past 5 years and haven't seen anything on design upgrades for our timing chain problems. Supposedly, the latest version of replacement parts will work longer. Future timing chain issues can be minimized with good maintenance practices --- frequent (5K miles or so) oil changes w/full synthetic oil, and maybe periodic inspection / cleaning of the chain tensioner (maybe annually, depending on mileage driven).

As for repair / rebuild, there should be several popular shops in your area. I've heard about some really strong rebuilds in FL. Since I'm closer to the west coast, I usually ignore the details of east coast facilities --- personal bias, sorry. The one source I've used and highly recommend is Thumper Performance --- http://www.thumperheads.com/ he specializes in Mini cylinder heads, but might refer you to an engine rebuilder.

Best of luck ---

 

There are a ton of design issues with this engine, it doesn't end with timing chains. What is Mini trying to get you to pay for if you don't mind me asking? Is it work not related to the repair? Typically Mini dealers will attempt try to take you to the cleaners if you're already in for a major repair even though some it isn't necessary, I hear about it all the time and not just here. These Mini's are cash cows for repair shops worldwide while proving to be a nightmare for owners, at some point you have to wake up.

There's a saying on this forum I'm all to familiar with, Mini's aren't for everyone.

 

Here's my rundown:

Bought my Mini Cooper S Clubman from Ferman Mini of Tampa on May 29, 2014, By January, (and 40,000 miles), I have had system wide failure issues on the car, including:
-Thermostat Housing (replaced a 6 months in, around 46,000 miles)
-Cooling Fan
-Waterpump (leaking now)
-A/C Compressor (replaced at a year, 55,000 mi)
-Timing Chain (Class action lawsuit judgement - only discounted pricing offered - Still about $2000 in repair)
-Valve Cover Leaking, needs replacement
-Oil Filter Adapter leaking
-2 Broken Oil Caps (replaced at first service and again after a year)
-Cam Cover leaking
-Crank Seal leaking (was hand written on my inspection at my first oil service and never mentioned - I found it while reviewing my history for all this)
-Alignment Issues - inner tire wear at my first service, I'm on tire set #2 now.
-4 sets of brakes - 2 fronts and 2 rears
-Non functioning Radio - head unit is inop, they quoted $2800 for repair. (i'll install aftermarket)


I tried posting a link to my facebook post for the full story, but it won't let me.

 

Everything you listed is typical what I see here, haven't had a crank seal or cooling fan fail but have heard of it before. What is Mini going to do for you, timing chain, engine work? Sometimes when timing chains fail the valves can strike the pistons and not show any signs of damage right away, how did it all happen regarding the timing chain?

 

So far, I've dealt with only two Mini dealers, but both offer parts and service guarantees for whatever they do. I had a front crank seal leak after my timing chain replacement and they fixed it FOC --- their seal replacement tool has a design problem, causing leaks. They also recently took back a faulty thermostat that I bought from them 1 ½ years ago and replaced myself. Have you tried to push this "guarantee" feature? Maybe try working with a different Mini dealer?