Why is my Mini Cooper rattling?

BMW Mini Coopers can develop a rattling noise, though many people may initially be unaware of the cause. The rattling noise coming from the engine known as the “Death Rattle Noise” is caused by the timing chain. The timing chain may need to be replaced before it snaps and causes serious damage to the engine.

What would cause a rattling noise when you accelerate?

If you hear a pinging or rattling sound when accelerating, low-octane fuel could be the cause. Pinging (also called pre-ignition or detonation) can also be the result of carbon deposits, a bad knock sensor, overheating or incorrect ignition timing.

How much does it cost to replace a timing chain on a Mini Cooper?

Mini Cooper Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement Cost Estimate. Labor costs are estimated between $284 and $358 while parts are priced at $70.

How do I fix a rattling noise when I accelerate?

Rattling noises when accelerating can be caused by low fluid levels in the A/T. Open the hood and check the fluid level. If the car is running low on transmission fluid, refill the reservoir to the proper level. After doing this, start the car and take a short test drive to see if the problem goes away.

What is the Mini death rattle?

A weak tensioner can cause your MINI to develop the dreaded cold start (death) rattle. This is where the chain is not under the correct amount of tension and is free to rattle around against the plastic chain guides. The noise can be reminiscent of a diesel tractor on startup and does not sound particularly healthy.

How long does a Mini Cooper timing chain last?

Timing chains typically last more than 100k miles in other cars, but the affected Mini models often need them changed at 20-30k miles when they start making noise.

What is the most likely cause of a rattling sound coming from the underside of a vehicle?

If the rattling sound sounds like it is coming from underneath your vehicle, you likely are experiencing a problem with your exhaust system. Exhaust system problems include catalytic converter problems, muffler issues or corroded pipe, can sound like light rattling to rocks shaking beneath your car.

Why is the front of my car rattling?

The most common cause of rattling noises from the wheel area being loose or a worn strut mount or the strut coming apart. Aside from the strut, which wouldn’t be typical for a vehicle of this age, you could have a hub cap that is broken or installed incorrectly. Another common failure is a sway bar link.

What does a bad timing chain tensioner sound like?

When a timing belt tensioner fails, it can result in a number of different symptoms. Symptom 1: Squealing, rattling, or chirping. When the tensioner or tensioner pulley fails, the loss of tension can cause the belt and pulleys to make high-pitched rattling or chirping noises.

How do you fix a death rattle on a Mini Cooper?

If your MINI has recently developed death rattle then the initial fix is to carry out an oil and filter change along with the latest tensioner from BMW. If this does not appear to fix the issue then the next step is to replace the chain and the guides.

What is the MINI death rattle?

When did Mini Cooper’s timing chain rattle?

MINI Cooper “S” Timing Chain Rattle Noise follow this link: http://www.promini.com/technical/coop… Vehicles affected: Mini Cooper “S” R55, R56 all models with the N14 engine produced between 2006 to May 4th 2009.

Can a faulty timing tensioner cause a Mini Cooper to fail?

Faulty timing tensioners can lead to issues, and ultimately complete engine failure. Simply following the scheduled maintenance on your Mini isn’t enough to prevent timing chain issues, and the on-board computer doesn’t monitor the condition of the timing chain.

Why is MY BMW MINI Cooper making a rattling noise?

Bmw mini cooper s r56 N14 turbo engine with a horrible death rattle coming from the timing chain. Found the car to be 3 litres underfilled with oil, when topping up I found a piece of timing chain guide inside the cylinder head under the oil cap. This issue applies to the N12 N14 N18 engines too.

How often do timing chains need to be changed?

Timing chains typically last more than 100k miles in other cars, but the affected Mini models often need them changed at 20-30k miles when they start making noise. If your Mini is suffering from timing chain noises, or premature failure, keep reading and we’ll cover everything you need to know to get them fixed properly.