What is the Mini death rattle?

A weak tensioner can cause your MINI to develop the dreaded cold start (death) rattle. This is where the chain is not under the correct amount of tension and is free to rattle around against the plastic chain guides. The noise can be reminiscent of a diesel tractor on startup and does not sound particularly healthy.
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Why is my MINI rattling?

BMW Mini Coopers can develop a rattling noise, though many people may initially be unaware of the cause. The rattling noise coming from the engine known as the “Death Rattle Noise” is caused by the timing chain.
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How much does it cost to replace a timing chain on a Mini Cooper?

The average cost for a Mini Cooper timing chain tensioner replacement is between $522 and $600. Labor costs are estimated between $295 and $372 while parts are priced between $226 and $228.
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Why is my Mini Cooper so loud?

A failing or dirty sensor can send incorrect data, resulting in too much or too little fuel going to the engine. This can result in a rough running engine that is louder than normal. Bad or Dirty Spark Plugs: Bad spark plugs can cause the vehicle to misfire which will make it run louder.
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When should a MINI timing chain be replaced?

Unless there is a specific fault, the timing chain should be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles. Chain problems are frequent in automobiles with increasing mileage. If you're driving an older car or one with a lot of miles on it, keep an eye out for signs that the timing chain is failing.
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BMW Mini Cooper Timing Chain Rattling Noise



Which MINI engines have timing chain Problems?

The BMW Mini range from 2010 onward is affected by the same premature timing chain failure that has plagued the BMW 1, 3 & 5 Series petrol and diesel owners. The BMW Mini diesel engines (N47) have a timing chain design fault – the timing chain is very weak – it stretches over time, and ultimately snaps.
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Which minis have timing chain Problems?

The following BMW Mini Cooper models are affected by the timing chain recall:
  • Mini Cooper Hardtop 2007-2010.
  • Mini Cooper Clubman 2008-2010.
  • Mini Cooper Convertible 2009-2010.
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Are Mini Coopers supposed to be loud?

MINI2 No. 1. I'd say it's quiet for road noise, engine noise etc. compared to other similar sized cars on the road today, but louder than a lot of 'bigger' cars which put more space and material between you, the road, the engine, and the exhaust.
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Are Mini Coopers any good?

Mini Coopers are considered moderately good cars. However, they have a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, which is somewhat less than ideal. The main complaint that owners have about Mini Coopers is that repairs are really expensive.
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Why does my Mini Cooper make a whining noise?

Low Transmission Fluid: For both manual and automatic transmissions, the primary cause for whining when in gear is low transmission fluid. If the fluid is too low, then the internal components of the transmission are not lubricated properly.
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How long does a Mini Cooper timing chain last?

Many simply paid for the job themselves, not wanting to risk engine failure over a relatively inexpensive part. Timing chains typically last more than 100k miles in other cars, but the affected Mini models often need them changed at 20-30k miles when they start making noise.
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How much does it cost to put a timing belt in a Mini Cooper?

Belts themselves aren't that expensive. The real cost is in the labor, because a lot of parts need to be disassembled to get to the belt. Shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $409 to $919 (including parts and labor).
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How do I know if my timing chain is worn?

These signs include:
  1. Rattling Sound on Starting the Engine or Idling. A common finding in a vehicle with a bad timing chain is unusual rattling noise when the engine is started or when brakes are engaged. ...
  2. Misfiring Engine. ...
  3. Contaminated Engine Oil. ...
  4. Check Engine Light. ...
  5. Inability to Start the Engine.
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Are BMW Minis good cars?

In conclusion, Mini are an average brand when it comes to reliability. They are neither the worst brand in the world for reliability nor are they shouting about how dependable their cars are. Their repairs are quite costly, though, and this can bring the dependability down.
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Do Mini Coopers have timing belts or chains?

Every car design however always has a flaw here or there. For Mini Cooper it is the timing chain and tensioner noise that affects a small minority of Mini Coopers.
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What year Mini Cooper should be avoided?

Some of the lowest predicted reliability scores suggest 2006 to 2012 model years are the worst years for the Mini Cooper. To be safe, you'd be wise to avoid models in the early 2000s too, where problematic models were noted.
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Do MINIs hold their value?

MINIs are notably well-made and reliable so retain value well. On top of that, they're a sought-after model and so are always in high-demand - again bumping up value.
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What are the common problems with Mini Coopers?

5 Common Mini Cooper Problems Every Owner Should Know About
  • Loose Timing Chain. The timing chain is known to become loose prematurely in Mini's road life, which ends up requiring early replacement. ...
  • Automatic Transmission Failure. ...
  • Power Steering Pump Failure. ...
  • Water Pump Leak. ...
  • Clutch Failure.
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How do you know if the timing chain is bad on a Mini Cooper?

Symptoms of a Bad Timing Chain
  1. Check Engine Light is On. There are many reasons why the check engine light can be illuminated. ...
  2. Engine is Running Rough. ...
  3. Overall Power Loss Upon Acceleration. ...
  4. Engine Backfiring. ...
  5. Metal Shavings in the Engine Oil. ...
  6. Rattling Noises when Idle.
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Are Mini Coopers good high mileage cars?

A Mini Cooper can last between 200,000 – 250,000 miles on average when properly maintained and driven conservatively. If you were to drive 15,000 miles per year, a Mini should provide 13 – 17 years of service before requiring uneconomical repairs or breaking down.
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Do Mini Coopers require premium gas?

Certain performance engines can only reach their full potential using premium fuel. Your MINI warranty requires that you use premium fuel. Your car gets better mileage with premium.
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What does a failing timing chain sound like?

A lax timing chain, or worse, a broken timing chain with loose parts within the engine, will produce a rattling sound when your car is idling. This rattling sound is typically most prominent while the engine heats up and disappears after some time.
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How much will it cost to replace a timing chain?

Timing chain replacement can cost between $600 and $800 for a DIY repair, or between $1,600 and $1,800 with a mechanic. The cost is high due to the complicated nature of replacing this part. If you want to DIY a timing chain replacement, the parts will cost around $650.
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