Mini Cabrio engine issues

Check engine light combined with poor performance points to several potential car problems. What error code is the malfunction indicator showing? Also, have you considered other possibilities, such as a vacuum leak? I once had similar symptoms in a different car, and it turned out to be a faulty mass airflow sensor.

Thank you for your response. I used an OBD II scanner, and it returned error code P0325, indicating a defective knock sensor. Is there a way to check the functionality of the sensor or the cable connection to it, without professional equipment? Could the described symptoms exclusively point to the knock sensor?

Code P0325 confirms the knock sensor. While you might check the cable for obvious damage, testing the sensor itself usually requires specialized tools. Given the symptoms and the code, it's highly probable the knock sensor is the culprit. Better take it to a workshop before you cause more damage to the engine.

It was indeed the knock sensor. The cable connection to it was defective as suspected. The malfunction indicator is off, and the engine runs as expected. Auto repair cost was 95€ including parts and labor.