What causes MINI Cooper death rattle?
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 causes timing chain rattle?
Timing chain noise is commonly most noticeable during cold startup of the vehicle when oil pressure and oil flow is at its lowest. Excess slack in the timing chain can cause a rattling sound or even a clanking sound if the slack is severe enough to cause the chain to contact the timing chain cover.
Do Mini Coopers have timing chain Problems?
One key reason may be a failing timing chain. The computer in your MINI Cooper is designed to detect any anomalies in the way that your MINI Cooper engine is working. Timing chain issues cause the engine to work poorly and increases engine emissions. This triggers the check engine light to turn on.
Why does my MINI sound like a diesel?
The diesel engine ticking noise could be a sign of low oil level that causes the valvetrain components to not get proper lubrication. Another culprit causing this noise could be a faulty lifter or a bad connecting rod.
What does MINI Cooper death rattle sound like?
The noise can be reminiscent of a diesel tractor on startup and does not sound particularly healthy. The reason the noise is most audible on cold start is that the oil has not yet circulated around the engine.
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.
How do you quiet a timing chain rattle?
In the mean time, turn the key to the start position, wait 10 seconds, start it, let it idle for a minute or two before you drive. That will save some wear. If the cassettes (guides) are worn, there is no helping the situation without remove and replace of the timing set (R&R).
What does the Mini death rattle sound like?
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.
Does a 2006 Mini Cooper have a timing belt or chain?
The Mini has a timing chain. No maintenance.
What should a Mini Cooper engine sound like?
on a regular normal basis, the engine has a constant continuous passive rattling sound from when you start it up to when you turn it off, no matter cold, hot, warm or cool. This rattling sound does not sound overly loud – like the cold start ones.