Mini Cooper Fuel System
The fuel system in a Mini Cooper is extensive. Contained within the complex system is the fuel injector, the fuel tank breather valve, the fuel rail, the vapor leak detection pump, the air mass meter, the throttle, the fuel cut-off switch, not to mention the fuel tank and an army of O-rings and other seals and tubes. The fuel system holds the fuel, transports the fuel, mixes the fuel with air, combusts the fuel, and expels the exhaust from the car. When it works, you can’t even tell that it’s there except for when you pull up to a gas pump. When it doesn’t work, you might suddenly find yourself in a labyrinth of possibilities, where everything doesn’t work but nothing seems to be the problem.
Symptoms of Fuel System Problems
There are numerous signs that there might be a problem with your car’s fuel system. Perhaps you’re finding gas underneath your Mini, signifying that there is a leak somewhere along the line. Or it could be that the car runs unevenly, sometimes purring along, sometimes sputtering for life. Another issue might be that you can’t start the car at all, which could stem from any number of fuel system failures. As always, an illuminated check engine light signifies something of importance and should be listened to, and many fuel system malfunctions will activate this light.
Preventing Fuel System Problems
Fortunately for you, there are some fantastic ways to prevent problems from within your fuel system. To start with, there is the quality of your gasoline. Some people will tell you that regular unleaded is fine, that the other stuff is a scam, etc., etc. These people are wrong. By using a superior quality of gas, you are ensuring that the fuel system is being battered by fewer impurities and generally treated gently, which means that it will last longer. Another great way to lengthen the life of the fuel system is by remembering that the gas pedal is a lever, not a button. Don’t just push it to the floor when you want to accelerate. Avoid the fast stop and go driving. Gently depress the pedal. Finally, you can follow the maintenance schedule. By regularly taking your Mini in for the Inspection I and Inspection II service, you can save yourself a lot of time and energy later on down the road.
Solving Fuel System Problems
It happened. Despite your best efforts, your careful handling, and your following the maintenance schedule the car has a problem. Maybe you have an idea of where it’s coming from, maybe not. Regardless, you need to get to a mechanic. If you are interested in superior service and saving on the repair cost, bring your Mini to our independent service center rather than to a dealership. We have the same professional service, at a fraction of the cost to repair.