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BMW Mini Timing Chain DIY Replacement for N12, N14, N16 & N18 engines - The Definitive Guide

The Mini & BMW Specialist

684,086 views

Instructional video on how to change the camchain / timing chain on an R56 Minis fitted with the N12, N14, N16 and N18 engine - there are differences in these engines but the procedure is the same for all 4 of them.

In this video, we're diving deep into the process of replacing the timing chain on a Mini Cooper R56, R55, R57, R58, R59, R60 &R61. If you've been hearing that dreaded timing chain noise, it's time to address it before it leads to more significant issues.

What You'll Learn in This Video:

Detailed step-by-step guide on how to replace the timing chain on a Mini Cooper R56
Common signs that indicate your Mini Cooper's timing chain needs replacement
Essential tools you'll need for the job
Tips and tricks to ensure a smooth and successful repair process

Why This Video is Important:

Timing chain issues are a known problem for Mini Cooper R56, R55, R57, R58, R59 and R60 models. This video provides you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the repair yourself, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars in mechanic fees.

Hashtags:
#minicooper #R56TimingChain #TimingChainReplacement #MiniCooperRepair #TheMiniSpecialist #MINI #R56

20 Comments

@Gboogie22 2 years ago (edited)

This is by far the best video on a mini timing chain job on YouTube. Thank you sir, you’re a godsend.

@richmr2174 3 years ago

I'm blown away by this video. So informative. I estimate the chances of me messing up the repair I'm doing on my Mini have gone down by 90%. Thank you so much. I owe you a beer.

@d.l.8993 4 years ago

Thanks Mini for making a complicated engine with no room to work

@Dan4x2282 4 years ago

He's definitely a proper English tradesman !
Listening to a man like this you can learn a lot !
Great Video.

@jmharris8679 5 years ago

I purchased a 2010 Mini S about a year ago and recently took it to the Mini dealer for repairs and the quote given made it impractical to keep this vehicle, ... until I came across your video. I've reviewed many videos on the timing chain repair found them lacking in detail. I can only describe your video as, ..."The Best of the Best". Hence, I am confident I will be able to keep my car after this project. I'm going to also review your oil housing repair video, and if it's presentation & clarity is anywhere near this video, I will take on both repairs and be a happy camper, thank you!

@Jon.Rogers 2 years ago

Fantastic vid, this will be appreciated for years to come 👍🏻

@jeremytownshend8344 1 month ago

Finally got my cam chain job completed. Thank you tgis video has been a constant guide which I refered back to throughout absolutetly priceless !

@davidblack7528 2 years ago

WOW! Great video. Technology and mechanical ability to do this job is over the top. You are a true mechanical surgeon!!

@owenrackham5963 1 year ago

I'm looking at getting a 2012 to 2013 R56 Cooper S with the N18 engine.

I already have a 2005 R53 Cooper S but always have been wanting to scratch the itch of trying one of these out.

Thank you for taking the time to make such a detailed and in depth guide, I'm quite a mechanically minded person but a guide like this is always massively helpful, and free too - well done sir!!

@ronaldellis3888 1 year ago

Buddy, that’s the best explanation I’ve seen on the entire Internet for the system. No one else goes into depth like you do. I have the N 18 turbo countryman and I have to tackle this pretty soon. I’m imagining it’s pretty similar to this, but even if there’s more to learn, you gave me a pretty good foundation so I thank you for that. Vermont USA.

@smokinjoesloane 3 years ago

as an apprentice mechanic i thank you for this brilliant video, been having misfiring issues on mine and didn't know what it was. i had a slight idea that it was the timing chain but haven't really found out until i found this video thanks you've really helped.

@SaltydogNC 5 years ago

We have a 2015 R60 Countryman S with the N18 engine that has a loud rattle when cold. I have ordered the kit, the timing tool, and the belt tools. I sincerely appreciate your excellent video. It was just what was needed to give me the confidence to do this job. Thanks a million for taking the time to do it.

@gt0329dd 1 month ago

Thank you - this enabled me to make this repair myself - I got the timing wrong on the first try, but was able to correct it and now the engine is running great!

@Wolvesfan-oz6yh 5 years ago

I’m 50 years old.....I’ve never witnessed such a impeccable explanation to how to do something.
I know nothing about engines
You sir are a genius...
By 12:03 I’d forgot what you’d removed .
I own a mini and I wish you were near to where I live for you to service mine ..
excellent work.

@alexdavies3732 5 years ago

This is a really great video. The first few minutes where you explain the symptoms of a bad cam chain and why the VANOS solenoids throw the error code are excellent - Edd China level stuff. Thank you!

@ER-cd2jo 1 year ago

I now fully understand why the quote from my local BMW/mini shop was so high. Thank you kindly for the walk though, and the advisory on worst case scenario. “If you hear a loud short bang, start saving” was real funny, fingers crossed all goes well when I tackle the replacement soon

@DrCrunkMusic 5 years ago

Thank you for making this sir, super useful. Timing tasks can be daunting on engines you haven't carried the work out on before. Nothing like seeing the quirks being dealt with first hand before diving in 👍👍

@gjloughlin 8 months ago (edited)

I watched loads of videos before taking this job on and this is, by far, the most detailed and easy to follow, step-by-step guide. It was a much easier job than I expected. Thank you very much.