I brought my mini to an autoshop which mostly fix bimmer and minis. because it got a big big noise from the engine.
The expert told me that I need to replace my timing chain. If I kept driving it around, the engine will die anytime. my 05 R53 is almost to 60K miles. Is this common on all minis? May I know if this is the time I need to replace a new timing chain. What else should I replace at the same time?
Please, advise, and how much would it cost in total?

Thanks

 

Timing chains break but i dont think it's very common. A much more common problem is the timing chain tensioner and timing chain guides. I would have them look into this as the solution 1st since the chain is an expensive fix and it's possible it isn't breaking.

Here's a video of a broken tensioner incase this is what your car sounds like.

 

I would have to agree with clay44, On most vehicles, timing chains can last forever. Timing belts however need to be replaced at regular intervals, but our MINI's don't have a belt.

Tensioners can go bad and cause the chain to become loose which will throw off timing. Because ignition and fuel delivery are based off timing it could stall your engine or cause poor running.

The guide rails are typically plastic, and like all plastics- can become brittle with time and brake, this will also cause similar symptoms as above.

Perhaps they quoted the timing chain for replacement while they are in there replacing the guide rails and tensioner? I've worked as a tech for enough years to know that the majority of all service writers know very little about cars. They are not trained to know anything technical about a vehicle for their position- they are simply put there to sell. Because of this, they often misinform the customer or dumb things down to a simplified level that their untechnical minds can handle explaining to a customer. I would assume that this would be one of those instances.

Also, if you ever feel you are not getting a good explanation from your advisor, ask to speak with the technician who is working on your car. Chances are, that tech fully explained everything to the writer who didn't understand half of it and took one word out of it like "timing chain" and relayed that you

 

I agree with Erik06MCS and everything he said. Talk with the tech and find out why they say the timing belt needs to be replaced. The only causes of the actual chain needing to be replaced are fractures in the chain links or stretching to the point of metal failure. I wouldn't expect the latter unless the car was driven really hard.