Took a 150 mile trip yesterday and used about half a quart of oil. When I stopped at a light I could smell oil burning. Not real strong but more than I wanted. I think that is excessive.

Jacked it up tonight and i have oil from the bottom opening on the bell housing and to the rear. Oil around the top of the oil pan and some oil from the front of the engine. Does not look like it running down from top like before.

Last week I had it apart because I thought my new turbo oil line was leaking. Had the downpipe off found the valve cover gasket was leaking so I replaced it and cleaned it up with brake clean.

I think its the rear main but unsure with the oil jn the front of the engine. I also can’t see where it’s getting on the exhaust and burning.

 

How many miles on your Mini? A rear main seal leak would cause your clutch to slip. Is that happening?

 

I had an issue with the oil cooler and the assembly where the oil filter housing connects to the block. It's only held on with three bolts and from what I've read it seems to be a weak point for oil leaks, it usually leaks down the exhaust down pipe (at least on the turbo car) and sprays everywhere.

 

I changed those gaskets when I had the head off last month.

 

I have 88k miles. My R52 rear main is leaking slowly and have driven that 2000 miles with no clutch problems.

Seems like R56 may be leaking faster. Half quart in 200 miles.