Hey there,

New to the Mini world, just picked up an 03 Mini Cooper S as a commuter/daily driver.

Just jacked up up the car to change the oil and noticed all The sludge underneath, not sure where it’s coming from. Mostly by the pulley side of the motor. I also found what appears to be a stabilizer link just hanging out in the engine bay. I’m new to Minis and have limited mechanical knowledge.

Does anyone know of a good auto shop in the Los Angeles area that works or specializes in mini coopers? Or does anyone live near me that is good with them to help me try and fix it? I can pay you in beer/food or just money.

Thanks!

 

That "link" appears to be your serpentine belt tensioner and you should have that fixed immediately. Lose that belt and all kinds of things could go wrong (not to mention strand you somewhere). Good luck.

 

https://cdn4.pelicanparts.com/techar...mall/pic04.jpg

It does look like the damper for the tensioner has not been re-attached for some unknown reason. Although your tensioner will be working, this is quite important to keep things smooth. Not an easy fix which is probably why the person responsible never bothered. Engine mount undone and engine jacked up to get at it. Pelicanparts have an online guide where I got this picture if you are tackling it yourself.

 

if you don't mind a drive, you could come out to Thousand oaks for a local mini shop here. They specialize in MINI's and run with the local clubs.

Motoring Magic