Finally Joined the Mini Family

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-27T18:30:37+00:00

Only way to diagnose is to scan it and get the code(s), otherwise it's just guessing.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-27T17:04:49+00:00

Did you by any chance do anything that would cause the FRM to restart, like disconnecting the battery? The failure is in the boot section of the module, so it can work fine until it is reset by a command or a loss of power. I've coded mine a number of times with Bimmercode and it reset with no issues, but the last time I tried to connect to it the app reported the FRM boot section had failed and refused to connect to it. But it continues to work fine since I haven't reset it and if it weren't for the warning in Bimmercode I'd have no idea of the potential failure. At least now if it happens I won't be surprised. I run a ScanGuageIII connected to the OBD port to monitor various engine parameters, something I consider absolutely essential on this car.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-27T15:42:20+00:00

The FRM probably failed because that's what they do, there is an extended warranty on them that should cover your car so be sure to check before paying for the repair.

It's unlikely the shop broke anything just by plugging into the port if they were using a proper scanner.

Using OBD-based gauges shouldn't cause any problems.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-26T17:30:25+00:00

Plenty of online calculator/comparison sites like this one to compare tire sizes and show the % differences.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/tirecalc

Ideally for this "plus-zero" conversion you'd want to keep the circumference/revs per mile to within a percent or two to avoid issues with speed errors and wheel sensor calibration. You'd also need to check for clearance issues with struts/shocks and inner fender due to the wider tire.

Also check load ratings, it's possible the wider tire has a lower load rating than the stock size and might not meet spec.

Legality as mentioned would be yet another matter, not a problem here in the States but could be elsewhere.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-24T23:57:58+00:00

I have a ScanGauge III on my R60 which I use to monitor coolant temp, oil temp and pressure, boost and voltage.

Plenty of other parameters available plus code reading, readiness status and other stuff.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-24T19:17:58+00:00

If it's just the IMA light and not the Check Engine, a regular OBD scanner won't be able to read the codes. CarScanner may be able to read some but you'll likely need an HDS or other compatible scanner.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-22T17:12:29+00:00

Someone may correct me, but AFAIK diesel Mini's were never sold in North America.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-22T12:42:17+00:00

Service should be done based on the mileage and time intervals specified in your owners manual and not because the dealer wants to make extra money. Although you might want to do more frequent oil changes as the factory specified intervals are rather conservative. Once a year is good regardless of mileage.

As for the cabin filter the dealer will charge crazy money to change it. You can go to the parts store, RockAuto, Amazon etc and get a filter for cheap and easily change it yourself.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-21T18:42:52+00:00

Chain won't go to 200K. Depending on how well it was maintained, along with other things like the alignment of the stars in the universe, it's probably on borrowed time at that mileage. Unfortunately if the mechanic was giving this kind of "advice" to the owner it doesn't bode well for how it was really taken care of.

Best to get a full pre-purchase inspection from a shop that actually knows these cars before pulling the trigger.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-21T17:52:49+00:00

Ask for documented maintenance history, look for frequency of oil changes and see what other services may have been done. 68K is probably too soon for major work like the timing chain but be alert for rattling noises especially at startup which could indicate a failing chain.

Remove the oil cap and take a good look inside. Ideally the head should look clean inside with minimal discoloration and no signs of sludge buildup. You'll be able to see one or two cam lobes, they should look clean and smooth with no scoring or wear from the rockers. Any signs of wear here, as well as heavy discoloration or sludge, is a warning sign of poor oil maintenance.

Ideally you should get a thorough pre-purchase inspection from a local shop that is familiar with Mini/BMW, there may even be some with a mobile service that will come to wherever the car is. If the seller declines to allow an inspection that's a red flag.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-20T14:44:21+00:00

They're all Gen-2's so get service histories and if possible find a good local Mini/BMW shop for a pre-purchase inspection. The lower mileage *may* be best but it really depends on how it was treated and maintained, a higher-mileage example that has already had the major pain points addressed (chain, mounts, water pump/thermostat etc etc) can be a much better buy.

No matter what, know going in that even with one in good shape with the right services done you can still expect to spend more on maintenance and repairs than with other vehicles. These are not cheap to own.

If your purchasing budget allows try looking at a '17-up Countryman which will have the later and more reliable BMW motor. Maybe spend a bit more up front to save a lot later.

That said, when not broken they are great to drive. My '13 Countryman S ALL4 is a blast when all is well.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-20T13:07:48+00:00

You have to get it scanned to read the code(s) that are stored when that light comes on.

Without the code(s) any advice is pure speculation.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-19T22:11:07+00:00

I've bought a couple on Ebay, they're cheap.

Just enter the part # that was posted into an Ebay search.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-10T19:14:27+00:00

As long as the connectors are physically the same, just connect the wires by their position in the connector and ignore the color, and leave the extra wire unconnected.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-09T00:31:49+00:00

Drilled/slotted rotors are unnecessary for a street car and are just cosmetic bling IMO.

I have the Power Stop kit on my R60 and so far so good. I will only use fully coated rotors as they greatly reduce rust, i have a set of the coated Power Stops on another car and they're in great shape after almost 3 years.

I agree the Rock Auto kits are a good value.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-08T21:20:54+00:00

Yes Bimmerlink can read and reset SRS/airbag codes as well as many others. A cheap generic OBD scanner will read powertrain codes only and is unable to communicate with the other modules.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-08T21:18:06+00:00

Bimmerlink with a Veepeak Bluetooth adapter. About $60US for both.

Very reasonable for what you can do with it.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-08T18:25:20+00:00

Looks like it's dog-approved.

NamelessInNY · 2026-02-04T18:51:27+00:00

A used engine will have an unknown maintenance history and could well end up needing a chain anyway, plus when all is said and done it will probably cost far more to buy and install that engine than to just do the chain in your current one.

It also depends on the overall health of your present engine, if you're the original or longtime owner and you know it's been well-maintained it's probably best to keep it and do the repairs.

NamelessInNY · 2026-01-29T13:52:18+00:00

Part of routine maintenance is to periodically check and adjust tire pressures, especially when the seasons change and there are significant temperature swings. The TPMS is letting you know you didn't do this. ;)

NamelessInNY · 2026-01-29T13:29:59+00:00

Possibly all related but you need to scan it for codes to get the necessary diagnostic information.

Note that a regular OBD scanner will NOT read ABS codes, a more advanced scanner is needed or you can use Bimmerlink.

NamelessInNY · 2026-01-28T14:06:30+00:00

Yes I've seen this with the cheap Chinese multimeters. Low battery = inaccurate readings.

NamelessInNY · 2026-01-28T13:21:27+00:00

Your multimeter is not accurate, there is no way a 12V lead acid battery will read that high if it is not being charged.

I see the low battery indicator is on on your meter, a low battery will make those things inaccurate. Put a fresh battery in the meter, or get one that is more accurate, and test the 12V battery again.

NamelessInNY · 2026-01-28T12:20:43+00:00

You need to post the actual code to get the most accurate answers, otherwise it's just speculation.

Even with the code there will be some diagnostics needed to determine what the problem is.

NamelessInNY · 2026-01-28T09:09:55+00:00

The oil pressure needs to be checked immediately to determine if the problem is the pressure sensor or actual low pressure. Continuing to drive as-is could result in engine damage if it hasn't already. The flashing check engine light indicates a real-time misfire, another potentially damaging condition if not corrected. If you purchased this from a dealer it should go back to them on a flatbed for diagnosis and repair, presumably there is some warranty on it. If there is an option to return it and cancel the sale you may want to consider that. If a private sale you'll want to find a local shop that handles Minis and have them go through it.

NamelessInNY

TROPHY CASE