engine problem?

[dipesh14]

Apologies if this is posted in the wrong place first of all! long time reader, first time poster and was wondering whether anyone had any thoughts on my MINI problem. Its a ONE model (05 plate). The problem I think is the engine which (especially on cold mornings) rattles pretty loud once the ignition has been started. If i press the clutch down it seems to go a little quieter and once the engine has been running for a while its a smooth ride but just wondered whether anyone knew what the problem might be?
Thanks in advance!

[designer_label]

Mine does this - dont think there is any problem - just the way it is

[dipesh14]

Thanks for the reply designer_label, i take it you have one that does exactly the same? I read another thread that said it often is something to do with the amount of engine oil is in the car, ive checked the levels and the problem still occurs. Just wondered whether it was anything that would turn into a major problem long term.. Thanks again!

[C.Noble]

Are you sure the noise is from the engine?

There are several possible causes, if it is from the engine, it is possible it is the tappets, unlikely, and they shouldnt be affected by pressing the clutch.

It could also be the timing chain tensioner, but this should not last for long, unless really screwed, and again should be unaffected by the clutch.

If the noise is coming more from the centre/right hand side of the engine bay (as you look at the engine from the front) then it is possible that it is the clutch release bearing, this would change sound as the clutch is pressed.

there are several other causes, but without hearing the noise myself, I am afraid I cant be anymore help.

In any case, I would STRONGLY recommend you get it checked by a professional as MINIs should not be excessively noisy on start up, mine get kicked to death, and never make rattles on start up. Any of the above WILL develop into something more serious/expensive eventually, so I would get it checked!

[dipesh14]

cheers for the advice, think I will take it in for someone to have a look at, for peace of mind if nothing else. the sound is weird, when its really cold it rattles a little and goes away with the clutch pressed but after a few minutes the car is quiet as anything which leads me to think that its nothing to do with the clutch, as this would occur constantly wouldnt it? The only problem I might have is that once the engine is warm theres no rattling sound so once I get it to the dealers it would sound ok.

[dipesh14]

an update! I took it in for a service just to identify any problems and was told that it is a release bearing that is rattling on start up and they suspect that a clutch kit is required. they also found that a power steering pipe is leaking. I was told that both of these jobs were not covered under the warranty that I have under mini cherished!
I have had a look around on the forums and understand that the clutch is often due to wear and tear but I have only had the car for three months and have covered less than 1000 miles so surely this cant be down to me and it should have been picked up before I was sold the car?
I was also informed that the power steering wasnt covered under warranty as the specific tubing required for the repair wasnt under the warranty. I was wondering whether anyone with a little more knowledge could help?!
p.s apologies for the longish post, just very unhappy at Sytner right now!

[plumwayne]

I managed to get mine done under warrenty 4 times.
have a word with mini customer services and tell them how unhappy you are and they will speak to the dealer.
don't give in them as a bearing should be covered if they want to replace the whole cluch kit thats down to them and i hope it fixs it for you.
Mine still rattles after a year of fix's.

Good luck.
w

[dipesh14]

Thanks for the reply plumwayne, bit disconcerning to hear that youve had yours changed four times and it still rattles! I dont think its right that Ive had it such a short time and they expect me to fork out another grand to change the clutch to be honest. Any idea on whether the power steering would be covered under warranty as well, its strange that the particular tubing I require isnt covered...
Hope you have better luck with your gearbox and clutch problems!