2013 Mini Countryman -exhaust smoke issue.

[Indio]

My wife has a 1.6 2013 Mini Countryman with around 74,000 miles on the clock. We have noticed grey smoke coming out of the exhaust, which has gotten worse over time. I also find that I have to top up the oil more often than I would expect to.

A friend said it may be an issue with the valve seals, but he was not sure. We have a few related questions we need help with:

- does my friends analysis sound correct?
- is this likely a big repair?
- is the car safe to drive in the interim?
- can somebody suggest a competent & trustworthy specialist to undertake the repair somewhere around the South Bucks area?

thanks in advance for any guidance you are able to provide.

[21TonyK]

It does sound like oil getting past the valve seals creating the smoke as it combusts in the chamber along with the fuel.

Its perfectly safe to drive but can only be fixed by replacing the seals.

Like most things mini, the seals themselves are literally pennies but its not a DIY job unless you are very competant, have the time and have the tools. Likely do the timing chain at the same time. Therefore not a cheap job, guessing 1K+

If you are planning on keeping the car may be worth doing to enure no MOT issues.

Edited by 21TonyK on Tuesday 21st July 10:50

[Indio]

Thank you. Very helpful indeed.

I am far from a competent mechanic - and my tool collection extends to a handful of screwdrivers and spanners, so there is no chance I would attempt a DIY job.

Having been burned by a local garage in the past, I would welcome any suggestions for a competent specialist in the South Bucks/NW London area. I would prefer to avoid main dealer prices if possible.