3 weeks ago I had a major engine failure. Experienced the "Death Rattle" in my Mini Cooper S R56, no warning lights appeared but i slowed down and then experienced sudden engine failure. All controls seized and I nearly collided with an on-coming coach. My timing chain had snapped! A timing chain and its components are considered more durable than timing belts and timing chains are expected to last the life of an engine. The Automobile Association defines useful life of a light duty vehicle, such as the MINI Cooper S, as 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
I have been quoted €4.5K for parts and repair from FK Mini.
Just wondering if anyone else has experienced this and what did they do?
Check out this US article: Is MINI Preparing a New Campaign for the Infamous Chain Tensioner?
http://www.motoringfile.com/2013/05/31/ ... tensioner/
BMW Ireland should notify R56 customer (2007 - 2011) or else someone is going to be seriously injured as a result of sudden engine failure.