Independent Mini shop diagnosed blue smoke on acceleration as worn rings. Said I needed to replace the engine ($9,000 plus install). All previous service at the dealer according to their maintenance protocol. Anyone else have experience with this? Advice?
What are the compression numbers? Dry & wet. If it runs OK, but just smokes & uses oil it can possibly run like that for a long time. That gives you time to find an engine or figure out another strategy.
Thanks for your questions.. My 2011 S has had oil changes between 7,500 and 12,000 miles, according to the onboard computer. I regret not following my 55 years of experience and changing every 3 to 4,000 miles! I assumed the new synthetic oil and engine technology allowed for these intervals....wrong! The $9K gets a long block from BMW...labor adds another $2,500 to $3,000. I did not get compression numbers, but am told the pistons are wet on top and the plugs are oil soaked. When I accelerate hard, I get black smoke for a bit and then it clears up. The engine revs fine to redline in all gears. Mini dealer in Louisville recently went out of business. Thinking of going to Cincinnati Mini for a second opinion.. Is this smoking/oil consumption problem common on R56’s? Does it require a new engine?
Look for an independent MINI specialist instead of taking it to a dealer. You will save a lot of money.
I would try carbon blasting intake valves first. Then switch to 3k oil changes. You should not need a new motor yet. 2nd gen Cars love oil and it’s a good idea to check it often. Also the 2nd gen MINI was the first to get a DI (Direct Injection) so the back of the valves do not get washed with fuel to remove carbon.
It's VERY common for the R56 S, and was the reason I almost didn't buy a MINI. All the research I did prior to buying nearly sent me running, but I'm a glutton for punishment so... But yes, Synthetic oil does last longer than conventional, in a Toyota Camry. Those oil change intervals are WAY over what anyone on here would recommend, shoot 7500 is far too many miles between a change. Most of us change every 5k. You should also be checking and topping off (if needed) your oil every other fill up. Mine eats at least a 1/4-1/2 qt. between changes. As Dave.0 said, find an independent euro shop. They're out there. 9k sounds like a very stealership price, and a rebuild may be an option. Your oil change interval is the reason you likely need a new engine. There's a reason MINI/BMW is facing several lawsuits for the R56 line.
I agree on the walnut blasting, if it's never been done I am surprised it is still running. On an N14 motor its usually good to have it done around 40,000 miles. Left unchecked it can cause valves to stick and you will for sure need a new motor. I change my oil every 3-4k also its cheep insurance. The valves get cocked up with oil vapor because its direct injection so no fuel can keep the valves clean.
Thanks for the input all. An independent shop gave me this diagnosis and price. I’ve had others suggest the carbon blast also...I understand it’s about $400, so well worth a try. I really love this car, especially during HPDE’s. Love to keep it longterm. Again, thanks to all for your suggestions!!
Did you say HPDE? I forgot about this little gem! Its only $9300 and well worth it http://store-revolutionmini-com.3dcartstores.com/RMW-R56-N14-Race-Engine_p_134.html Let us know what you do and how it works out.
Thanks for this info...I checked out the engine and believe it’s more power than I need. You might also check Sneed for Speed. They have a street/track long block for $7,000...200hp at the wheels with a one year warranty. Still not sure what I’ll do... Again, thanks for your input!