We've had our 2009 R56 for 11 years, but have had the belt/chain replaced three times already (32k, 55k, and 57k), and am now being told it needs to be replaced a fourth time (75k). Is there any recourse I can take or am I just stuck? Being quoted $4k to replace which is supposed to include all necessary parts and dropping oil pan to remove debris. Thanks.

 

Well, that seems excessive - IDK which R56 you have, but no car should be going through timing chains like that. Hopefully more knowledgeable members will chime in with possible reasons why your Mini is eating chains.

Price seems way high - had our R56 N12 timing chain/tensioner replaced in 2016; 1500.00 parts and labor at our independent Mini shop. Good luck; hope you get it sorted.

 

I think that’s a really big bill for a timing chain replacement. I’ve had to do this four times with the Mini’s that I’ve owned (6 total). The highest I paid was about $1500 and that was a total engine removal. I now do it myself and it’s definitely not necessary to remove the entire engine to replace the chain or drop the oil pan. (I’m in the process of doing this right now on a 2009 MCS).

All that’s needed is a timing chain kit - about $65 from Amazon, valve cover gasket (not sure about this price. Mine came in a kit. But it shouldn’t be expensive), cam hold down tool ($40 from Amazon), torque wrench, crank holding tool, torx bit set, and some patience.

I’m not suggesting that you do this yourself, I’m just letting you know that it isn’t so involved that it should cost $4k.

For $4k, I’ll fly to you and do it myself!

 

Has it been done by the same mechanic every time? Please give us more history and background. As you can see from the posts above, by going on what you posted, this does not make any sense.

 

That's excessive unless you are literally running your car with 1-2 quarts of oil most of the time. Is the person replacing the timing chain also replacing the tensioner with a new one? Replacing the tensioner with the new longer one is the biggest fix to extend the life of your timing chain. I have a feeling the first few times, they did the chain and put the old tensioner back in...which is definitely BAD!