Do Mini Coopers Have A Timing Chain? Unlike most cars, the Mini Cooper uses a metal timing chain rather than a “belt” made of composite materials. A defective timing chain can cause damage to the engine and present serious safety concerns. When a chain tensioner fails, the vehicle will lose all power – even while it is in motion.
Do all Minis have a timing chain? All Mini Cooper (Cooper, Cooper Clubman, Cooper Paceman & Cooper Countryman) engines have a timing chain and are interference.
How long does a Mini Cooper timing chain last? 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.
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 $336 and $406. Labor costs are estimated between $267 and $336 while parts are priced at $69.
Do Mini Coopers Have A Timing Chain? – Related Questions
When should I change my Mini Cooper timing chain?
In our experience, this is often brought on by the very extended oil change intervals of 15,000 miles (which is why we strongly advise oil changes on Minis at 5,000 to 7,500 miles).
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.
How much does it cost to replace timing chain?
Typical costs: Hiring a mechanic to replace a timing chain typically costs $300-$1,000, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, its age and whether the work is performed at a dealership or an independent shop. Purchased separately, a timing chain typically costs $50-$250 or more.
What are the signs of a bad timing chain?
Common signs of a faulty timing chain include engine misfires, metal shavings found in the oil, and rattling sounds from the engine while idling.
Engine misfires or runs poorly.
Metal shavings found in the oil.
Engine won’t start or fails.
Check Engine Light is on.
Engine rattles while idling.
Will check engine light come on for timing chain?
Illuminated check engine light: The car’s computer monitors engine operation to ensure emissions don’t get too high. A stretched timing chain will hurt engine performance and increase emissions. If this happens, the computer will turn on the check engine light and store a diagnostic trouble code.
Does a Mini Cooper have a timing belt or timing chain?
Unlike most cars, the Mini Cooper uses a metal timing chain rather than a “belt” made of composite materials. A defective timing chain can cause damage to the engine and present serious safety concerns.
When should a timing chain be replaced?
The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem. Issues with the chain are common in higher mileage vehicles.
What does a timing chain rattle sound like?
The sound can be intermittent or constant, but it will be a metal to metal contact. Such a noise will reveal a loose timing chain hitting the inside of the timing chain cover every time it rotates. If you hear a rattle, metal to metal slapping or scraping coming from inside the cover, it indicates a timing chain noise.
Where is the timing chain on a mini?
front
The timing chain is found in the front of your MINI and is connected to a variety of gears and pulleys that power an assortment of mechanical components, like the crankshaft and camshaft. The timing chain needs to smoothly rotate around these gears in order for your engine to start and your MINI to run.
Does Mini timing chain need to be replaced?
Similarly, in your MINI, when the timing chain loosens enough or stretches enough to snap, a chain reaction of devastating events can occur, including critical engine damage that will likely result in expensive repair costs. Timing chain degeneration is normal and natural to the part—it must eventually be replaced.
What year Mini Cooper should be avoided?
Some of the lowest predicted reliability scores suggest 2006 through 2012 are the worst years for the Mini Cooper. And to be safe, there were problematic models in the earlier 2000s, as well.
Why are Mini Coopers so loud?
Leak in Exhaust Manifold: The exhaust manifold collects exhaust gases from the engine. If there is a leak in the exhaust manifold it can cause the engine to run louder, sputter and run unevenly. It is also possible for leaking exhaust fumes to find their way into the cabin of the car.
Are mini engines noisy?
on a regular normal basis, the engine has a constant continuous passive rattling sound from when you start it up to when you turn it off, no matter cold, hot, warm or cool. This rattling sound does not sound overly loud – like the cold start ones.
Can you replace timing chain yourself?
Every car has a timing chain. It is the connection between the camshaft and the crankshaft. And just like any other car parts, the timing chain also needs to be replaced and changed. But you can do the job all by yourself if you have the right tools, some mechanical know-how, and a service manual.
Can you tighten a timing chain?
Timing chain’s have no tensioner, are made to fit, and cannot be tightened. When a timing chain is stretched too far, you purchase a timing set (chain with matching crankshaft & cam gears, as they MUST be changed together. Many engines that run chains have a hydraulic tensioner.
Is a timing chain better than a timing belt?
Most automakers recommend replacing the timing belt every 60,000 to 105,000 miles. Timing chains are heavier and more complex than timing belts, but they also last much longer. Really, unless there’s a problem, timing chains don’t have a replacement interval.
How do you know if you need a timing chain?
When you hear a rattle or unusual sound, it means that there is a problem with the engine. When the timing chain is loose, it can cause a vibration in the motor resulting in a rattling noise as the engine idles or when starting. If you hear a rattle, it means something is loose and needs to be fixed before it breaks.
