Hi - I'll keep this brief. While driving back to Chicago from KY, my timing chain broke and trashed my engine. I have a 2007 Mini Cooper S with 90,000 miles.

I did not take part in the settlement, but it states this: I called Mini of Louisville and they said I am NOT covered since I have a 2007, but I thought I would still be eligible for at least a couple more months. I'm confused!

 

Answered my own question. it's 7 years not 10 years. And it's whichever comes first. Sorry.

 

I bought a car with a broken chain, after cleaning the block, head, replacing the valves, and cleaning oil pan and pump, the engine ran fine. of course replaced the chain, guides, and tensioner.

 

I wish I was a gear head. I haven't been able to confirm if the engine is damaged yet. I'm planning on selling it as is since there are plenty of Mini folks who would gladly take on the challenge

 

I should ask, how did you know it was a broken chain? Do you have pix?

 

It's what the mechanic said. It's been rattling like crazy before this happened.

 

Did he show you? Did he open the head cover?

 

No, I will have him do that on Monday.

 

I had the timing chain, tensioner and everything else replaced on my '07 S.
When I called Mini of Louisville they said they would be replacing the tensioner only, but once there they said everything needed to be replaced. That was last January.

 

Did you pay for these repairs?

 

It was all covered by Mini USA.
I posted about it a few months ago.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ing-chain.html

 

That's crazy because I called them and they said my 07 isn't covered even though it's under 100k. They said the extended warranty expired in April 2014.

 

You may want to call them back, but this time ask to speak to Priscilla Embry.
I have nothing, but great things to say about her.

 

I will definitely call them back. She works at the Louisville location?

 

Yes, she does. She is a Service Advisor.

 

Thanks, I'll give her a call tomorrow. So was your chain broken when you called or just loose?

 

It was making the rattling noise.
I called my nearest Mini dealer to learn about recalls and service bulletins I had no info about, and they mentioned the Timing Chain Tensioner one, so I made an appointment. They said they would inspect it and replace it if needed. Once they did, decided to replace all parts.

 

Well I called again and got the same answer. So at this point, do you think it's worth repairing or should I just sell it on eBay motors as is? They say the engine is locked up.

 

Would you try repairing it by yourself, or have a mechanic do it for you?

 

Mechanic for sure. They said a minimum of 3,000. It all depends what the extent of the damage is, which they can't determine without a huge diagnostic which is another $400.

 

if we were closer, i would've hooked you up. The parts may run you for about 450 (head gasket, timing chain, timing chain tensioner, timing chain guide, new head bolts, intake and/or exhaust valves).

the Engine locked up because the chain is jammed around the lower sprocket. it might've damaged the oil dip stick collar but will still be fine.

the car i bought was the same thing. i think you have a chance of saving the car but not though a mechanic since it will be that costly. Try to find a local mini enthusiast who can hook you up for less.

 

Wow! An update... Finally got ahold of Priscilla Embry. She said to bring my Mini in and (if) it's the chain, she'll cover the repair! Awesome!

 

mine just did this on sunday.. broke my cam gear bolt chain is still in the motor at the bottom.. its at mini now.. only had the car 3 days

 

That is good news! But you never mentioned you had not talked to her the way I advised you to.
Should it be the timing chain and covered by MINI USA, don't forget to buy me an iced cold one. Lemonade, that is.
Alcohol is for less than smart people. Ha!

 

Sorry to hear that my friend...Did the previous owner disclose that to you or was it from the same dealer. what is the year and model?