Hey guys,

I'm dealing with a 2011 Mini Cooper S that's been throwing only the 2DCE code for about a month now and goes into Limp Mode. I've done quite a bit of work on the car, given its 120k miles and wanted to do some maintenance as I just purchased this 20k ago.

• Replaced the timing chain
• Replaced both Vanos solenoids
• Installed new plugs and coils
• Dropped the pan and removed broken guide pieces
• Installed new oxygen sensors
• Ensured all timing is checked and torqued to manufacturer specifications

Despite these efforts, the 2DCE code persists. I've researched extensively and found that while my car has the N18 engine, there seems to be no eccentric shaft sensor to replace, unlike in the N12/N14 engines.

I've also checked Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and reprogrammed everything according to guidelines, with the motor turning the shaft as expected. I've even replaced the motor, suspecting sporadic motor behavior as a possible cause.

Unfortunately, I'm still stuck with the 2DCE error, and the car keeps going into Limp mode. I recently took it to a reputable European shop specializing in BMW and Minis, but even they are perplexed. They're reaching out to a specialized company in Canada to inquire about replacing some module.

I'm at a loss here and would greatly appreciate any insights or thoughts from the community. Thanks in advance for your help!

 

Are you sure that is the ONLY code being stored? The fault is a secondary fault for the vanos system.

 

Yeah, that's it. I kinda wish there was more to help diagnosing this a bit further.

 

Just got for a call from my local BMW/Mini mechanic and they dont have a clue either. They going to charge me 350 for all the work they tried; Replaced valvetronic motor, and reprogramming. I guess ill take it to the Dealer and see what they find out

 

Just got a call from the Dealer today after being there for 2 weeks. They still don't know what the issue is. They have replaced the valvetronic solenoid and the problem is intermittent. Their recommendation is to replace the head for a price tag of $18,268.45. They have 0% financing the service guy said. hahahah.. Yes you read that correctly 18k USD to replace the head and they still dont know if that will fix the problem. Replacing the head on the Mini seems pretty straight forward so i guess that is what I will do next by myself. Found a few online for 3-4k remanufactured. I wish there was some easy answer to this! Also, for everyone knowledge, the engine sounds great and runs well for about a minute then goes into Limp mode with the 2dce code

Any recommendations before I go get a new head?

 

Hi, I have similar 2dce problem as yours. Did you fix yours?

 

Start by performing a Valvetronic limit stop relearn with a scan tool.

 

Do they say $18,268.45 with a straight face? You could get into a decent F56 for that price (assuming a) you like the F56 b) you're willing to continue to support MINI after this trouble).