2009 Clubman S, 109k miles, manual transmission

Drove it to the dealer to get timing chain replaced. Hoped to eventually get at least partial reimbursement if done at dealer.

SA called to say chain was installed, but when they started the car the pistons impacted the valves.

After further analysis, they conveyed the following:
They said hole that they pinned in the aftermarket flywheel was 90 degrees off. (I don't know if there is second hole, but stock has only one)
With flywheel pinned, the camshaft locking tool didn't fit, so they rotated the camshafts until it fit. They said they were 45 degrees off. They called it "setting the timing". Note that the flywheel was pinned when they altered the timing.
Since the flywheel hole they used was not in correct position, they claim it's my problem.
They claim that their ASE technicians followed the manual; however, I seriously doubt that the manual directs them to rotate the camshafts 45 degrees with crankshaft pinned on a car that they drove into the bay.

So they say that I owe about $2100 for timing chain install and about $750 to determine how they broke it and to what extent. Then quoted about $8000 to fix it.

MINI USA noted my complaints but didn't want to help. They suggested that we may be able to meet in the middle.

I'm about to pay the bill to date and have the car towed elsewhere. Then it will likely sit for awhile.

My opinion? Their mechanics demonstrated lack of understanding of how the engine works. And even if they are only asked to follow instructions like a recipe, I believe they added a step when something was not as shown in a photo.

John

 

I wouldn't pay anything. They broke it by not doing it correctly.

 

They should have passed on the job if they can't handle aftermarket parts. I bet they will next time. Go directly to small claims court.

 

Think you are going to have to go to court... unfortunately small claims is only going to get you about half your money in most states....
They screwed up...think they should be falling all over themselves sorry....and maybe turning in a claim to their insurance....
Obviously. They don't owe you a "new" motor ....the value was reduced by use and age....
So if they have you a new one, you would be in better shape ...so imo don't expect to get off 100% $$ free...with a 100,000+ mile motor...you might suggest that the car was totaled...see if they will do a deal...a trade in at the running value, and a DEAL on something on the lot....
But think they do owe you a running car....and if you offer to pay the $"$ difference between a used and new motor if you want to keep the car, they might give you a deal.....
make an offer...maybe...
I'm no lawyer, but think if you honestly told them you are mad as hell, and they need to get you back into a running car, and let them go down the road of them paying for it...
Be careful on saying you are going too sue...when that happens, folks stop talking...and stuff stops...
Work with them, best you can....
Point out you are out transportation....and them fixing it (or finding another solution)ASAP helps to limit expenses that they will be expected to pay...be nice...maybe say you understand it is a difficult situation, but if a mechanic did not know what they were doing with an aftermarket part, they should have stopped....but they continued...and made your motor into scrap metal....
Be firm....say if you cannot get this taken care of locally , you will go higher, to regional and or national levels....and you can even imply you could get one if the TV "on your side " types of segments involved ...
Bet they would like to have this event go away....and if you were willing to tow it away...or pay a bill to fix it, nobodys gets fired....
I would keep the car in their parking lot....their regional and national reps and insurance companies will need to inspect it....everyday...bug them...call them...be the squeeky wheel...be nice...but keep it moving forward...

The people you are talking too might be trying the protect the guys that did the work.....so you might need to go higher....let's face it...an $8000 mistake is a BIG DEAL.

 

They are absolutely responsible for getting it running again, that means replacing the valves and pistons. Don't pay anything, the dealer is at fault here not you. If you live in a state that has a Bureau of Automotive Repair I would contact them and file a complaint to see what your options are before proceeding.

 

Do you agree that your car has an 'aftermarket flywheel' and if so, what brand? Contact the manufacturer or the vendor from which you bought it to determine whether the explanation makes sense.

 

This is outrageous. They are absolutely responsible for providing you with a serviceable engine (whatever that takes). Please name the dealer so other forum members can avoid him for new car purchases and service. You should also file a claim with the BBB just to stir the pot a bit.

 

My take is at the point they realized you had an aftermarket flywheel they should have called you & informed you of the potential problem. Instead they marched ahead & broke your engine. As much as I hate to say it lawyer up & do it now. The dealer carries insurance to cover such screw ups by their employees. Make them pay for the repair.