2010 Mini R56 Hatchback mk 2
 

can a timing chain be removed and new one installed without removing the motor or the front end of the car.

Short answer...Yes. I did the tchain on my 08MCS N14 R56. Peel back passenger wheel-well liner to expose crank bolt. There are 3 timing guide bolts that are torque-to-yield so they get replaced, along with crank bolt and both cam sprocket bolts. Cannot do this job without timing locking toolkit or torque specs. Lots of videos on timing chain replacements. Good Luck.

Yes, That’s so true cause I also did my tchain on my 08MCS N14 R56 and it went good