Check engine light and overheating Mini Roadster

Check engine light and overheating on a diesel Mini with that mileage Sounds suspiciously like an active air flap issue. I had similar symptoms on my old Audi A4 turned out to be the flap motor. The fault code probably points to the air intake system. Essentially, these flaps control airflow to the engine, aiding in thermal management. When they fail, they can cause all sorts of problems. Have you checked the flap motor itself for any visible damage

Thermal management, you say So, if I understand correctly, these flaps are not just about performance, but also about keeping the engine at the right temperature Is that why it's overheating And when you say 'flap motor,' are we talking about the electromechanism that controls the flaps Just trying to get my head around the whole system.

Yes, 'thermal management' means maintaining optimal engine temperature. The air flaps play a role in that, especially during warm-up and in regulating airflow to the radiator. A stuck or malfunctioning flap can definitely cause overheating. And yes, the 'flap motor' is just shorthand for the electromechanism that actuates the flaps. Given the symptoms and your mileage, it's highly probable that's your culprit. Honestly, it's likely best to take it to a workshop. Diagnosing it properly requires specific tools, and replacing the flap motor can be a bit fiddly.

Just wanted to update you took it to the shop and, as feared, it was indeed the active air flap electromechanism. They're quoting me 590€ for the repair. Ouch! Thanks a lot for confirming my suspicions and helping me understand what was going on.