Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles
Car tutorial (Do it yourself) Motorcycle tutorial (Do it yourself) Frequently Asked Questions

The Consequences of a Timing Chain Failure in a Mini Countryman

Model: Mini Mini R60, Countryman1 - Years: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
Part: Timing belt

See other generations:
Video tutorial

In this video, you will see the consequences of a timing chain failure in a Mini Countryman with an N47 engine. The damage was significant, and to carry out the repair, it was necessary to dismantle the entire vehicle: engine, gearbox, differential, and transmission.

In this engine, the timing mechanism consists of three chains: the oil pump chain was undamaged, while the other two have broken. There was no damage to the connecting rods, but the cylinder head and valves suffered the most damage.

In the camshaft housing, only the pulley will need to be replaced, while we see the basket with the damaged components: gasket, bolts, guides, tappets, rockers, and the high-pressure pulley that have exploded. The sump is now clean of debris, and naturally, the head is new along with the seats and intake and exhaust valves.

In this case, the break was sudden, but often it gives warnings by rubbing against the cover. Good maintenance can prevent these issues; manufacturers indicate maintenance intervals that are too long: especially for diesels, 18,600 miles is too much due to missed DPF regenerations.

The recommendation is to halve these intervals.


Updated on 14 September 2026 by ScegliAuto


Related tutorials

How to remove the brake light bulb on a Mini Countryman
How to remove the brake light bulb on a Mini Countryman
Mini (2010-2016 / R60, Countryman1) Before you start, open the tailgate of your Mini Countryman. Begin by unclipping and removing the inner side cover of the boot, then unclip the clips…
How to set the time in the Mini Countryman?
How to set the time in the Mini Countryman?
Mini (2017-2023 / Countryman2, F60) In this tutorial, you will learn how to set the time in the Mini Countryman, an extremely simple and quick operation to perform, for example, after d…
Where to Find the Fuse Box of the Mini Countryman R60
Mini (2010-2016 / R60, Countryman1) In this guide dedicated to your Mini Countryman R60 (2010-2016), follow these simple steps to locate the fuse box. First, switch off the car and lift…

Other guides you may be interested in

How to Reset the AdBlue Warning Light on a Peugeot Boxer

To reset the AdBlue system on a 2018 Peugeot Boxer, follow these steps: Start the engine and ensure the vehicle is parked in a well-ventilated area. Locate the "MENU" button on the dashboard or steering wheel controls. Press and hold the "MENU" button until the menu options appear on the display. Use the arrow buttons or scroll wheel to access the "Vehicle Settings" or "Settings" menu. Select the "AdBlue" or "AdBlue System" option. Look for the "Recharge" or "Reset" option in the AdBlue menu. Once you find the reset option, select it and confirm your choice when prompted. The system will be reset, and a confirmation message may appear on the display. Turn off the engine and wait a few seconds. Restart the engine and check that the AdBlue system has been reset.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos