david_schroeder1

Mini Cabrio Diesel Running Lean

I come to you with a perplexing issue concerning my 2013 Mini Cabrio diesel. The engine seems to be running too lean, exhibiting symptoms such as reduced engine power, illumination of the check engine light, rough engine running, and disconcerting jerking during acceleration. My preliminary assessment suggests a potential defect in the injection valve or injector. Could a faulty injector cause such a dramatic shift in the air-fuel ratio, potentially damaging the catalytic converter? Any insights would be greatly appreciated.

4 comment(s)

Sounds like a similar problem I had with my Mini. Reduced power, check engine light, the whole shebang. Have you checked the mass air flow sensor or the oxygen sensor? Could be a simple fix. What kind of fuel trims are you seeing?

Thanks for the quick response. I haven't checked the mass air flow sensor or the oxygen sensor yet, but I did notice some rough engine running and jerking when accelerating. What exactly did you experience with your Mini, and how did you determine it was the mass air flow sensor or oxygen sensor? Also, where are these sensors usually located?

Yeah, my Mini was doing pretty much the same thing – rough idle, hesitation, the works. I initially suspected the same as you, a dodgy fuel injector. Turns out, after a bunch of diagnostics, it was a fuel injector causing the lean condition. The sensors were fine. Honestly, I'd recommend getting it checked out at a workshop. They'll have the right tools to properly diagnose which injector is the culprit.

Just got the Mini back from the workshop. You were spot on – it was indeed a faulty fuel injector. Replaced all four, and the air-fuel ratio is back to normal. Runs like new now. Total damage: 515€. Thanks for the advice!

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