Reddit reviews CravenSpeed Dipstick Upgrade Compatible with MINI Cooper S (Hardtop 2007-2014 Compatible)
We found 3 Reddit comments about CravenSpeed Dipstick Upgrade Compatible with MINI Cooper S (Hardtop 2007-2014 Compatible). Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
Unique, flexible design won't break-off like the OEMMade from quality materials; durable powdercoat and stainless steelMatches MINI Part 11437585970Easy to read dipper measure 1 quart of oilHand crafted and assembled in the USA
Check the oil, often. Minis are very finicky about oil levels and they consume a bit of oil too.
I personally found the stock dipstick to be a piece of shit, hard to read and hard to put back in, so I got the Cravenspeed dipstick and it is a champ. A bit pricey but very easy to read exactly what the oil level is.
Also, don't go by the OEM recommendation for oil change intervals as they are wayyy too long. 5,000 miles or so should be a good distance.
The most popular is the Cravenspeed replacement dipstick. They're kind of expensive though, about $75. I think I got mine off of eBay for like $50, but it's still kind of a lot for a dipstick. It's advertised for the Hardtops, but I believe the Countrymans have the same engine, so it should work fine.
https://www.amazon.com/Cooper-Dipstick-Upgrade-Hardtop-2007-2014/dp/B00CQD4CM6
They make a Gen1 version as well, they're slightly different, so make sure you don't buy a Gen1 dipstick by accident.
There are several known problems with the N14 engine (the engine in your MINI), some of which include:
Overconsumption of oil- MINI claims up to 1qt/750 miles
Timing chain tensioner failing - there is currently a recall/lawsuit for this. It is related to the oil consumption issue.
Thermostat failure - replaced by a newly engineered unit that are said to be better
Water pump failure - same as above
Auxiliary water pump failure - usually on earlier N14s
Coolant take failure - on earlier N14s and is caused by the heat generated by the turbo and the proximity of the coolant tank
Hood scoop insert melting - same as above
Down pipe CAT failure - possibly due to oil consumption issue
Turbo oil line failure - can be replaced by the better Detroit tuned version.
Carbon buildup on intake valves - this is due to a poor BMW design. Can cause abnormal engine wear and lack of power if not maintained.
Door actuator failure - caused by water getting inside on the passenger foot well.
I personally had an N14 JCW for only 1 year and experienced most of these issues. The semi good news is your car has most likely experienced these problems, as the N14 gremlins start to show up around 50-70k. Did you get service records?
In addition to keeping an eye on your fluids weekly, I would also check with MINI to see if there are any outstanding recalls for your vehicle. As long as the repairs have been made, and you do your part to make sure they don't happen again, it should be a relatively good relationship!
Lastly, I highly encourage you to purchase the Cravenspeed oil dipstick. It is $75 shipped on Amazon and takes the guesswork out of reading your oil levels, which can be quite difficult to read. Also, check out the forums like motoring alliance and North American Motoring, they have a lot of info about your MINI. Lastly, check out notable vendors for awesome upgrades/mods for your MINI. Welcome to the family!
MINI Cooper S Dipstick Upgrade (Hardtop 2007-2014) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CQD4CM6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_E71vxbZCWSWV6