I took my 2010 Mini Cooper S into the dealership for a Check Engine light; it needs a new timing chain (which I've told them to go ahead with), and the vacuum pump is leaking oil. The dealership says that the pump needs to be replaced (for $842) in the next couple of months or the engine could seize up.

I read the FAQ and saw that this is a known issue. My question is, will making sure to keep the oil topped up keep the danger at bay? Or do I really need to get the thing replaced ASAP?

Thanks!

 

 

Yep, replace it. If it goes... kaboom

 

It needs to be replaced asap, but $842 is ridiculous. The part is very easy to swap out and isn't all that expensive. I think I bought the pierburg one for about $120 and did it myself.

 

There is a o-ring gasket mating the vacuum pump to the head. Why not try to replace that o-ring gasket first? It's only 3 bucks, link below:
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-elring-p...06d145117~elr/

If this doesn't stop the leak, then go for the pump replacement, if you end up buying the pump, just note that it will come with the gasket. link below:
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-pierburg...667556919~pie/

As far as doing what the dealership tells you, I only trust their diagnosis, never their quote on actual repair. If you are here in Houston, TX, I can easily help you with the work, it's really easy to do. Good luck.