When your Mini Cooper S engine makes noises when cold, there are several potential causes. These include Timing chain failure, lack of lubrication, and a dead spark plug. If you suspect a mechanical problem, it’s best to have your car checked by a mechanic.
Timing chain failure
If your car’s engine makes a rattling noise when cold, the timing chain may be at fault. The timing chain is responsible for coordinating valve opening and closing between the crankshaft and the camshaft. When it fails, the pistons will not strike the valves. The timing chain is made up of multiple links that run over gears. Because it is exposed to a lot of wear and tear, it can sometimes develop a problem.
Timing chain failure is not a common problem, but it is a very dangerous problem. If the timing chain is damaged, the engine will suddenly shut down without warning. The last thing you need is for your engine to break down without warning. That’s why it’s imperative to listen for any rattling noise and fix the problem as soon as possible.
Lack of lubrication
One of the most common reasons why the engine of your Mini Cooper makes noises when it is cold is a lack of lubrication. Check the oil level and compare it to the recommended grade of oil. If it is too thick, the piston will have a difficult time moving up and will make noises when it is cold.
Another reason why your mini Cooper engine makes noise when it is cold is due to a worn out camshaft. A worn camshaft will restrict air/fuel mixture and reduce power. Moreover, a neglected camshaft can damage other parts of the engine. This is one of the most expensive parts to repair.
Dead spark plug
If your engine is making a strange noise when cold, it could be due to a dead spark plug. If you suspect this problem, you should perform a visual inspection to determine the cause. If you notice discoloration, you’ll need to replace the spark plug.
Another common reason why your Mini Cooper has engine noise is a weak battery. It is important to check the battery voltage before attempting to start the vehicle. A battery voltage test will show you the voltage between the battery’s two poles, as well as the battery’s condition. A new car battery has not yet reached its full capacity, and it’s important to let the battery have time to build up capacity before you use it.
Another possible cause of a Mini Cooper’s engine noise when cold is the wrong oil. Different engine oils have different viscosities. A higher “W” value indicates a thicker oil. A thin oil is not as effective when cold, so make sure to check the oil’s viscosity.
Oil leak
The rattling noise that you hear when you start your Mini Cooper may be due to an oil leak. You can check the condition of your engine oil by comparing the viscosity of your current oil with the recommended oil for your vehicle. If your oil is too thick, the engine may not have enough lubrication to run properly when cold. Changing the oil frequently will prevent this problem and keep your Mini Cooper in top shape.
The noise is especially noticeable when the engine is cold. It’s somewhere between 1500 and 2000 PRM, and will go away once the engine is warm. The noise is present in cars with as few as 12K miles, so it’s important to check your oil as soon as possible. Change your oil and filter regularly, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and use factory-made filters.
Timing chain tensioner
Timing chain tensioner failure can be devastating for a Mini Cooper. This component is located inside the engine, and failure can cause severe damage to the engine. While BMW claims that the timing chain is maintenance-free, it isn’t always that simple. The on-board computer doesn’t always monitor the chain’s condition, and it is not always possible to tell if the timing chain is in trouble.
A faulty chain tensioner can cause the engine to rattle when the engine is cold. When the chain is not under the proper tension, it rattles against the plastic chain guides, creating a noise that resembles the sound of a diesel tractor. The noise is most noticeable when the engine is cold because the oil hasn’t circulated throughout the engine yet, acting as a damper.
