Is it recommended to replace the vacuum pump as a preventative measure to avoid a failure that would destroy the motor?
I have a 2008 R56 with 133,000 miles that I purchased new, oil changed every 5000 miles, and never ran low on oil. The typical endless list of parts have been replaced over the years and I currently am having the bad turbo being rebuilt by JMTC.
While I am doing this project, I want to replace any parts that may contribute to future engine failures.

Engine Parts changed since owning the car:
Timing chain and Tensioners 80000 miles
Valve Cover
Thermostat housing (twice)
Turbo Oil Cooler Lines
Oil cooler gaskets
Oil Pan gasket
Front Crank Seal

 

the pump fails for the lack of oil going to it. if you want to replace it and have that peace of mind, it isnt that expensive and it is a fairly straight forward task.

 

Typically, when people experience low brake booster vacuum, hard brake pedal, and brake fade during application when stopped these are signs that you possibly have a bad vacuum pump. Usually this is the time people replace them. Another note about it is that the brake booster hose nipple on the pump can also show signs of a problem. It's good to inspect that as well. If you want to go ahead and replace the pump as a preventative measure we have a great article that can help.

Vacuum pump - http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/...7-556-919-M244
DIY tech article - http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...eplacement.htm

For the timing, did you replace the tensioner with the newest 82 mm one? Looks like you've done some good maintenance to the vehicle as well. If you have any other questions let me know.

 

The timing chain was done by the dealer part #11-31-7-534-833 so not sure if was the new 82 mm part. I assume the new part is improved?

 

That part number is for a timing chain tensioning rail, not the timing chain tensioner. Yes, the 82mm is supposed to give more life as we all know the chain stretches on these MINI's. The 82mm tensioner is the final 5th Gen redesigned tensioner and is much smoother and quieter.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/..._pg2.htm#item5