Not sure if this has been covered before, but at times, coming to a stop as the RPMs slow, it sounds like the timing chain is rattling until the mini settles at idle. Is that normal or do I need to be concerned? I bought the car with 30k miles, it runs great otherwise,

 

Did it get the new timing chain tensioner? You should be able to call Mini and ask it it got it.

 

I 2nd the timing chain tensioner. It shouldn’t “rattle”, so buy a new tensioner and change it. That is the one piece of the puzzle that has a floating type adjustment on the chain. All other connections are solid and bolted in position. When you remove the tensioner, try to compress it with your hands. It should be very difficult due to the amount of spring resistance.

 

There was a recall for this if im not mistaken.