I am new to mini but love the look and size. I have been thinking about getting a 2010 Countryman JCW edition that has 57k on it, they are asking $15,900. Looking over the forums today and just general web search I came across the "Death Rattle" issues on the R55/R56 engines.

I have to admit this seems to be a big issues with these engines and kind of makes me want to stay away. Am I over thinking this, is this really a common issues with most of the R55/56 engines, enough that i should look into a different model car? Is there anything else I should be looking out for when I go on a test drive of a used Mini?

Thanks- John

 

Are you sure it's not a 2011? I think that was the first year of the Countryman. The 2011 Countryman S (R60) comes with the N18 engine and does not have the dealth rattle - timing chain/guide issue.

The R55 is a Clubman and the 2011 Clubman JCW does in fact come with the N14 engine. There is a warranty for the issue and you can see if it qualifies, but if it's a huge concern I'd suggest looking at 2013+ Clubman JCW with the N18 engine.