My 2009 MINI Cooper S (24K Miles) seems to have developed a corrosion issue at the Turbo. Wondering if you all can take a look and let me know if this is normal, or should I see the dealer. Looking for some input pre-dealer in case they say it's good when its not. Here's the pics... Closer... As you can see, seems there is rust where it bolts on, and off that hose that I have no idea what it does :confused5: Normal or abnormal? Thanks!
I used to live in western, NY where they used salt and calcium. Now I'm in CT and not sure what they use, but assuming salt. I figured the elements created it, but seems a little premature, no?
Seems abnormal. But salt will do that. I'd still bring it up with the dealer. Seems like it's premature for an 09. Hopefully you have an understanding dealer in your area.
Thanks. I was thinking it's to soon for any of that. Most of the metal parts are showing some pitting and signs of corrosion. I appreciate your insight. I guess as far as having an understanding dealer, it's pretty clear it's rusted. I hope I don't get the "that's normal" routine.
The MINI is supposed to come with a 12 year rust protection guarantee. Obviously they're probably referring to the body but I say it should cover every component of the car. Are we expected to rinse off our engines after a drive? :incazzato:
The funny part if that rixter, is that I keep my engine pretty clean. Every time I wash the car I open the hood and wipe down what I can reach. Does anyone else have any similar appearance, or are yours all fine and rust free? Pics?
My '09 looks like that somewhat as well, although not as bad as yours - 25K and we get tons of salt on our KC roads in the winter. My car is not garaged nor do I wash the engine...definitely looks like salt corrosion to me. I would run it by the dealer also, and if they won't replace it under warranty, I'd consider buying one to have on hand for when it does start to leak. Either that or take that one off, clean it to bare metal and paint it or powder coat it. An ounce of prevention, as they say.... The front pipe brings water from the water pump to cool the turbo bearing and housing, the one behind it supplies oil to the center bearings.
I'd say I do similarly but maybe about every-other-wash. I'd definitely have the dealer take a look at it
Here's the problem! Don't let them know that... "What you TOUCH your car parts? Warranty claim DENIED!" Matt
I'm really hoping that's sarcasm, LOL. I think when they see how clean the engine bay is it will be pretty apparent any way. It's not like i use any crazy chemicals. Mostly a wet rag on the hood and metal. I do use a rag with plastic protectant on the air box, bulkhead, grill and intake hose, but nothing else. I have an appointment (next week) with the dealer; New Country Mini in hartford, CT. I also sent them the pics via email so they could get a heads up on what I'm i'm talking about. I have had very limited interaction with dealers over my life, as I have been fortunate to have little to no issues with any of my cars. So far, the service rep who i talked to was not pushing me away, and seemed open to discussing the issue. I'm thinking this will turn out alright. Does any one know if the metal parts are treated at all? I would think at least a bath in some rust proofing would be standard, no?
It looks like these parts are originally either cad plated or zinc plated, either will normally be fine unless in highly corrosive areas - like those that put a lot of salt down on the roads or near the ocean.
Yeah..... they are electroplated. Not sure what the coating is. Cadmium is typically gold in appearance. Chances are its a zinc electroplate.
Thanks guys! This site is really pretty fantastic. I've been lurking here for the better part of a year, just reading and stealing your thoughts (not in a creepy way). But, i come as a basic unknown to you guys, and you have all been great at helping me out. I really appreciate it
On the... ask Vini Product Manager thread..... Did you notice the part about shielding the Turbo oil lines? I wonder if the heat shielding will offer some protection against salt corrosion????? ...Vinnie: It was part of a cost-down measure. Sadly, this was one of few things that we fought against but the beancounters prevailed. Luckily, we did win on a few fronts such as getting the MINI logo back on our engines, budgeting for oil feed line heat shields on the turbo engines and even getting new timing chain tensioners....
That corrosion is definitely a warranty item. Just make sure to come in to the dealership asking for help, making friends, and gathering support. Don't go in there with guns a blazin' and demanding everything. As with everything else, your relationship with the dealership can make all the difference. Even if they determine it is 'cosmetic or normal' corrosion for the moment and not covered, it is best to get this issue on record during the warranty period. If you highlight as an issue now it very well may still be a warranty item if/when it fails even if beyond the warranty period. Also, having some pics of other MINIs with greater miles and less corrosion can't hurt.
I hope I was being sarcastic... We'll know when you're back from your visit. But some dealers are real pains in the butt, others are real helpful. I hope you have the latter. In general though, I think it's best to just say "this doesn't look right to me. Does it to you?" and not given them anything that can be used as an excuse to not cover something. Matt