Hello, I would like to know if it would be helpful to change out the timing chain tensioner on my 2008 MCS for a new one? I just bought the car and I was under the impression that the timing chain tensioner was the main problem with this car. Can this be prevent the timing chain tensioner guide rail to break?

Thank you

 

You can preventively replace it, but chances are you'll be doing at least one timing cassette on the car in your ownership either way.

 

I totally agree, anyone wanting to keep their 2nd gen Mini long term should plan on this as a course of normal maintenance.
Point is, keep very close tabs on the oil and timing chain symptoms and act a soon as the appear.


We own a 2013 coupe and since they are no longer making them we are simply planning on replacing the timing chain when the time comes as a part of keeping this car.
It is what it is.

 

I appreciate you answering my question.

 

I see what you mean. And I do want this car for along time. Thank you.

 

I have a 2009 cooper s with 112k miles on it. After the car is warmed up I get a nasty rattle sound between 2k and 3k. I had the hood up and listened while the engine was revved up and it was definitely coming from the passenger side. I would guess that it is my timing chain, but it just seems strange that it doesn't make noise until those rpms. I am going to replace the chain and guides, from what I've seen it doesn't seem too hard.

 

Welcome to NAM! Hope we can help with your rattle, and we'd love to see some pictures of your Cooper S. Here is some background info that may help you diagnose and make repairs:

http://new.minimania.com/Mini_Cooper_Cold_Start_Rattle

Here are the parts:

http://new.minimania.com/Mini_Cooper...lacement_parts

The only good news, the kit is on sale! Hope this helps.

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

How loud is this rattle if the timing chain is starting to go? My car rattles when it runs, but it sounds more like the engine in rocking a little. Is that the beginning of it going?

 

Rattles can be hard to trace. Could be a heat shield, air intake, any number of things. Let the engine idle, open the hood and remove the oil filler cap and listen. If the rattle is louder, could very well be the timing chain. Have it checked at a dealer or MINI repair shop. If the engine is rocking, sounds like it's time for motor mounts before further damage is done! There are several YouTube videos on the death rattle. Can't vouch for their accuracy but you might want to have a listen.

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

There are multiple culprits that cause rattles; normal direct injection sound, timing cassette, low oil level, friction wheel for the water pump, the water pump itself, missing grommets on the bottom of the airbox, and the list goes on, but you're best off to find a qualified indy shop to do the diagnostic.

 

I had the timing chain, tensioner and everything else replaced on my '07 S.
When I called Mini of Louisville they said they would be replacing the tensioner only, but once there they said everything needed to be replaced. That was last January.
It was all covered by Mini USA.
You may want to call your nearest MINI dealer to learn if they can help.