Motor was fine then all of a sudden all the oil drained out and the motor died all at once no light no alerts just working fine one min complete destroyed the next they want 10K to replace it and the warranty company demands I pay 3400 to have the old motor tested to prove it failed despite the mechanic saying it has and hearing a knocking of the rods on the lower half of the motor MINIcooper vehicles: 2007 through 2010 hardtop (R56), 2008 through 2010 clubman (R55), and 2009 through 2010 convertible (R57) (collectively, the defective vehicles). The defective vehicles have a defect within their timing chain tensioners that cost, at minimum, hundreds of dollars to fix and that can cause extensive engine damage (the defect). Unlike most engines made for the consumer market, the prince engine uses a metal timing chain rather than a belt made of composite materials. When the prince engine was first introduced in 2004, defendant touted the timing chains durability compared to a timing belt, and indicated that the timing chain would remain maintenance-free throughout the full running life of the engine. One of the features of the prince engine defendant has promoted is that the timing chain and tensioner are located inside the engine block. However, actual road use has shown a significant drawback to this design: If the chain fails, damage to the engine can be catastrophic. According to defendants warranties and maintenance program, the chain and tensioner do not require service, and the on-board computer does not monitor chain condition. Accordingly, problems with the timing chain tensioner can easily go unnoticed and cause serious damage to the vehicle. A defective timing chain can cause damage to the engine and present serious safety concerns. When a chain tensioner fails, the vehicle will lose all power, even while it is in motion.

- Bixby, OK, USA