Question on Oil Leak Diagnosis

I have a 2010 base model Cooper. I have noticed a slight leak from the valve cover which I can repair. I threw a code: #3 piston misfire. Checked the coil pack and swapped it to the #1 position. Reset the OBD and drove it until the same code popped again. A local mechanic I know told me it was probably oil leak getting into the spark plug because the #3 plug was fouled with oil.

My question is: Do I need to replace more than the valve cover set? Should I replace the valve seals? The job starts to get much bigger with more seals to replace.

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: MINI Cooper R56 Oil Leak Diagnosis (2007-2011) | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

[Nick at Pelican Parts]

If the coil boot is oil fouled, I would replace the coil. As the insulator may allow voltage to leak under load. So valve cover, engine oil change (for misfire) and the coil with oil on it.

Give The Pelican Parts parts specialists a call at 1-888-280-7799. They can figure out what part or repair kit you need.


- Nick

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

Parts for your R56 Cooper:

Valve cover gasket (includes spark plug tube seals)- 2010 Mini Cooper Base Hatchback - Cylinder Head & Valvetrain - Page 1

Depending on how many miles you have on your current ignition coils and plugs we have the full kits here: 2010 Mini Cooper Base Hatchback - Ignition - Page 1
Or you can do the individual coils/plugs needed here: 2010 Mini Cooper Base Hatchback - Ignition - Page 1
(I recommend OEM supplier or Genuine for these parts)

Engine oil and filter items needed here: PelicanParts.com - 2010 Mini Cooper Base Hatchback - Basic Maintenance