erwinschaefer1

Mini One potential VANOS issue

I am writing to you today regarding a potential issue with my 2008 Mini One. It has a gasoline engine and approximately 196256 km on the clock. The check engine light has illuminated, and I've also observed higher than usual fuel consumption. From my research, it seems the inlet VANOS mechanics might be faulty, pointing to a defect in one of the camshaft solenoid valves or a lack of power supply. Has anyone experienced similar symptoms, perhaps even an engine misfire, related to variable timing? I am trying to assess the situation before considering a repair, which I estimate might cost around 250€.

A 2008 Mini One with a gasoline engine and high mileage exhibited a check engine light and increased fuel consumption, suggesting a potential VANOS issue. The problem was suspected to be a defect in the inlet camshaft solenoid valve or a lack of power supply. It was advised to check for oil sludge and confirm power to the solenoid. Ultimately, a workshop confirmed the faulty solenoid valve, and after repair, the check engine light was off, and fuel consumption returned to normal.

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4 comment(s)

It sounds like you're on the right track. The check engine light and higher fuel consumption are definitely indicators of a potential VANOS issue. Since you are familiar with a defect in one of the camshaft solenoid valves, have you checked the oil condition? Sometimes oil sludge can cause these valves to malfunction. Also, have you confirmed that power is actually reaching the solenoid?

Thanks for the quick reply. How would I check the power supply to the solenoid valve? And regarding the oil sludge, is there a specific place I should be looking for it, or just generally inspecting the oil during a change?

Checking the power supply to the solenoid valve usually involves using a multimeter to see if voltage is present when the engine is running. As for the oil sludge, it tends to accumulate in areas with poor oil circulation, such as around the camshafts and within the VANOS unit itself. Given the potential for oil sludge and the need to test electrical components, I would recommend taking it to a trusted workshop that is familiar with MINIs to diagnose the problem properly to avoid a VANOS failure.

Thank you for the helpful advice. It does seem like I am not equipped to handle this myself. I took the Mini One to a workshop, and they confirmed the inlet camshaft solenoid valve was indeed faulty. The repair plus the part cost exactly 250€, as predicted. Now the check engine light is off and the fuel consumption is back to normal.

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ONE