[msh441]

Quote: Originally Posted by Deanliv (original)

The early build engines apparently had a design fault with the cylinder head seals therefore the oil wouldnt be retainied for start up. So those having the clatter sound at startup maybe worth getting back to your dealer and requesting a new engine with the modified seals in the cylinder head.

It would be very helpful if you posted exactly what your service invoice says. If MINI, via one of their dealerships, is acknowledging a known fault, knows how to fix it and has acknowledged changing the manufacturing process to address the issue it would be helpful for other owners to know SPECIFICLLY what they said. Even more helpful would be what they put in writing.

Quote: Originally Posted by Deanliv (original)

Its good news isnt it, Finally there is a resoloution. Other mini owners, rcord the clatter on your phone, request a new engine.

Sorry, but 500 miles means nothing. 5000 will be looking promicing. When you're at 10,000 miles with no clatter, I'd consider it a likley fix. Some owners have gone several thousand miles before this issue ever popped up.

Quote: Originally Posted by caesar (original)

In view of the remark " only early engines are effected" does not appear to be consistent with the problem I have described above.

Exactly. There are older and newer builds showing the same symptoms. Dealers have done cam chains... hydralic lifters... valve guides... installed "no-return valves" to keep oil in the engine for start-up... and numerous other things to address this problem. Some have worked tempararily. Others... had no effect whatsoever.

I sincerely HOPE things are getting sorted. But like I said, without specifics, combined with some proof that they've changed some manufacturing process to officially solve the issue... well, I'm pessimistic.