New mini owner. I have a 2009 MINI Cooper S. I am getting an error code P0970 for bad solenoids. My mechanic told me the solenoids need to be replaced and that the only way to do that is to replace the entire valve body and solenoids, a complete rebuild, costing about $4000. Is there an easier option for a fix?

 

Changing the VANOS (variable camshaft timing system) solenoid does not require the head to come off. Nor should it cost $4000:
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...olenoid-431247

However, a quick search for P0970 error code indicates that a solenoid in the automatic gear box (provided your car has one) may actually be referred to. Changing that would be more challanging, but still doesn't involve the head coming off.

Either way, the code itself may not be enough in order to pinpoint the exact root cause.

Could it be, that there is more going on than what you have posted? You may also want to provide more information on your car, e.g. auto or manual transmission, whether stock or modified, mileage, previous issues, possibly other codes, other malfunctions, etc.

 

If your mechanic is correct, and solenoids do need to be changed, it is likely valve body should be changed as well. Aftermarket valve bodies are available for this transmission (I suspect you have an 09G auto trans, which is common in the 07-10 Mini cooper S). I've changed out the valve body on my 07 MCS, and it was messy (trans fluid...) and a little tedious, but not difficult. Remanufactured valve bodies come with new solenoids, but, you need to be absolutely sure you get the right replacement valve body and solenoids, and that can ONLY be guaranteed by looking at the valve body and solenoids in your car. About 18 months ago I paid under $650 for a remanufactured valve body with solenoids. Working great since then!