Two problems related to engine rattling and whining sounds have been reported for the 2007 Mini Cooper S. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My car has been making a rattling sound for about 6 months. Although the car has been serviced twice during that time, no technician or Mini service department representative said anything about the rattle. While driving on the highway I noticed my car beginning to run. . . Funny. Not long after, the engine power light came on. Approximately 10-15 miles later, my car stopped in the middle of the road. Because the car would not restart, it was towed to a Mini service department. I was told the problem was the timing chain, and it needed to be replaced. There are countless numbers of these reports on the internet. Inspite of the numbers of complaints and repairs, Mini/BMW has refused to take responsibility for the part. It was very fortunate there was no crash or fatality, again my car stopped in the middle of the road with very little warning.
The contact owns a 2007 Mini Cooper S. The contact stated that the vehicle would not start in cold weather until after three to four attempts. There were also noticed rattling noises coming from the engine while driving at various speeds. On another occasion, the vehicle stalled while driving 70 mph without any warning. The vehicle was then inspected by a dealer and they advised her that she needed to replace the vacuum pump, timing chains and the high pressure pump. Each part was replaced within one year of the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000. The VIN was unavailable.