matteowagner1

Mini Countryman losing power and smoking

Okay, I'm officially pulling my hair out. My 2016 Mini Countryman is throwing a check engine light and feels like it's lost half its horsepower. Plus, there's some smoke puffing out when I accelerate. I've been doing some digging, and I'm starting to suspect the crankcase ventilation valve is kaput. I would expect better, I'm starting to think there is a leak somewhere. Any ideas?

4 comment(s)

Sounds like a crankcase ventilation issue alright. Smoke on acceleration is a classic symptom. Is the idle rough too?

Rough idle, yes, especially when the engine is cold. What exactly is a crankcase ventilation valve anyway, and why does a malfunction cause all this?

The crankcase ventilation valve basically recirculates gases from the engine's crankcase back into the intake. If the valve malfunctions, it can cause a vacuum leak (unmetered air entering the engine), leading to a rough idle, reduced power, and even smoke because the air fuel mixture is off. Better get it checked out at a shop, because driving it like that can cause more damage.

Just wanted to close the loop on this one. Took my Countryman to the shop, and you nailed it the crankcase ventilation valve was indeed the culprit. 360€ later, she's running smooth again! Thanks a bunch for the help!

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