Hi everyone, new to the mini scene. Picked up this 2009 MC JCW with 116k on the clock.

Is this the infamous death rattle? I don't have any real history on the car to determine if the timing chains were ever replaced.

Thanks for the listen.

 

Sound worse than mine did. That sounds like the top rail plastic guide has already broken and chain is hitting it. Although these engines also sound 'tappity' that sounds very loud. Off with the valve cover for a look if that was mine and no driving until checked. At 110k miles it is well overdue a chain (even if done before at 60ishk), guides, VVT and lower sprocket and even oil pump chain while in there.

 

As mentioned above, take the valve cover off and see what's going on. Even though it sounds like a chain issue, I think the noise is coming from the vacuum pump.