Ignition problems in the MINI R56 – how to fix them?

MINI driver question

I have a problem with starting my Mini R56. When the car stands for a longer time in the morning, for example, it doesn’t always want to fire up the first time.

Sometimes it will fire up the second, third, fifth, tenth time. There is no rule. It looks like an ignition or fuel cutoff. There are no errors. My mechanic stated that the car is operational. Immediately after firing up it ripples on revs, and after firing up again everything is OK. Any ideas what to do about it?

The problem was with a 2007 MINI R56 model with a 120 hp 1.6 gasoline engine, but also occurs in other models.

Response from BM Cars service

The described problem of difficulty igniting the engine can be related to a great many faults. The most common recurring defects in this engine relate to leaks in the intake system. As a result, the engine immediately after firing up goes out or revs ripple.

Another cause can be a lack of synchronization in the rotation of the crankshaft with the camshafts due to damage to the shaft or shaft sensor. Incorrect readings result in signals transmitted to the engine controller that prevent the engine from starting effectively.

Making an accurate diagnosis requires a full vehicle diagnostic.

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