Should I do this work to my MINI One?

How much would it cost to replace the head gasket and timing chain on a 2008 MINI One 1.4 petrol? And is it worth it?

Amy Sutton (Dublin)

Nov 2017 Filed under: servicing

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Expert answer

Hi Amy,

Labour costs and even part prices vary massively depending on which garage you go to and whether the parts are original manufacturer items or not. The best we can do is tell you that the estimated time for changing a head gasket is over eight hours and that for changing the timing chain is nearly five hours, though both jobs involve an overlap in what needs to come off so the total is probably more like 10-11 hours if it's all done together. The head gasket and the chain are expensive components to buy as well.

Whether it's worth all that expense depends entirely on whether the car is otherwise perfect. A 2008 MINI One could be worth between €5,000 and €7,000 depending on mileage and condition. It'll be worth considerably less if it needs that work doing to it.

Let us know how you get on

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor
@Shane_O_D