MINI cold-start rattle and timing chain wear

Which MINIs are affected?

This page covers the timing chain on the MINI N14 engine. For other BMW and MINI work, see our BMW and MINI specialist page.

N14 1.6 turbo petrol, in these models:

• R56 Cooper S, from 2007 until about 2010
• John Cooper Works, from 2008 to 2012

If you hear a cold-start rattle from a different MINI engine, we inspect it in the same way. If you are not sure which engine your MINI has, put the registration in the enquiry form and we will check.

What are the symptoms?

The sign to listen for is a loud rattle when the engine starts from cold. One MINI specialist compares the sound to a diesel tractor.

If you hear a noise like this, book an inspection. When you do, tell us:

• when the noise happens, for example only from a cold start
• how long it lasts
• whether any warning lights are on

What causes it?

The fault starts with the timing chain tensioner, which is weak on this engine and was revised several times. When the tensioner does not hold the chain tight enough, the chain rattles against its plastic guides and then stretches.

How do you confirm it is the timing chain before fitting parts?

A fault code is not a repair, and a rattle is not a diagnosis. Before we quote for any parts, we:

• listen to the engine at a cold start
• read the fault data stored in the engine’s control unit
• inspect the tensioner and the chain

We then show you what we found and send a written price. No part is fitted until you give your written approval.

What does the repair involve?

The repair is done in stages, so you only pay for what the car needs:

1. We change the engine oil and filter and fit the latest version of the tensioner.
2. If the rattle is still there, we replace the chain and guides as well.

We price each stage in writing, and the second stage only goes ahead with your written approval. Once the work is done, we check that the noise has gone at a cold start and verify the repair, including a road test where appropriate.

How long does a MINI timing chain replacement take?

It depends on what the inspection finds, and on whether the tensioner alone cures the noise or the chain and guides also need replacing.

Before any work starts, you get a written price and a promised time for your next update. If the car needs to stay with us, ask about a courtesy car when you book.

Is there a recall for the MINI timing chain?

Whether a recall applies depends on the individual car, so check your registration on gov.uk. Recall work is done by MINI’s network, not by us.