Hi all, I've got an '09 Cooper S with 70K on the clock. I had the timing chain and all assorted bits replaced at 58K because the chain was out of spec. I've read somewhere that these premature failures of the timing chain are caused by a faulty chain tensioner, and that a different tensioner is now being used. So my first question is, if my replacement was done in July of 2012, do I have the new, improved tensioner, so I can expect normal chain life? Second question is has Mini solved this problem completely? I've been pondering switching to a new Countryman, but I don't want to buy another time bomb on wheels. :nonod: Cheers, and thanks for any help.
If the timing chain was replaced @58k then the tensioner SHOULD have been swapped as well if it was faulty. I had a 2010 and had no issues with either component and the Countrymen haven't shown any issues. You should be just fine. To be double sure go to a MINI dealer and have them look up your VIN in the system. If those repairs were made they will have been noted.
Im assuming this was done at the dealer, the new timing chain,? If so, just call the service dept. and ask them. Supposedly the motors now are the, "refresh", motor, but don't think there are any long term reports on them yet?
I was not at your Local dealer when they did the but..........in theroy if they did the timing chain set up in 07/2012 then you SHOULD have recieved the newest tensioner. We have been using the newest tensioner since 03/2011 Check you oil on a regular basis. The low oil level causes some problems. By the way: Welcome to the AWARD winning coolest Donut eating MINI forum on the net.... :donut1:
Thanks for your help (and everyone else). The tensioner was definitely replaced, my only question was if it was the new style. Wasn't sure if the dealer service tech would give me an honest answer. I've got to take it anyway, because the check engine light went on. Since the Mini dealer is 2 hrs. away, I took it to my local mechanic who scoped it and said it was misfiring. He's not sure why, so I guess its off to the dealer we go!
Welcome to M/A! We just added a Justa Countryman to our stable and so far it's been great! 7,000 miles on it.