10-04-2017, 09:07 PM
MINI R56 model designations, 2007 - 2012:
R55 Clubman S
R56 Cooper S
R57 Cooper S Convertible
R58 Cooper S Coupe
R59 Cooper S Roadster
R60 Cooper S Countryman
Beginning with the production of the 2007 MINI R56, several of the models have been equipped with the Valvetronic intake system. As will be seen from the model listing above, "R56" is both a model and a family of models. Different MINI body configurations were given different R codes.
Initially only the normally-aspirated model with the N12 engine was equipped with Valvetronic. Beginning with 2011 models, both the N16 (normally-aspirated) and N18 (turbocharged) engine came with Valvetronic.
Valvetronic, or variable intake valve lift, is an intake system developed by BMW in order to increase engine efficiency and power and reduce CO2 emissions. The system uses a secondary eccentric shaft with cams. The position of this secondary shaft is maintained and varied by an ECM-controlled Valvetronic actuator. The intake camshaft operates a series of intermediate levers. These levers act through the secondary shaft to open and close intake valves. Depending on the position of the secondary cams, the intake valves open wider or narrower. Based on driver input, engine load and other variables, the ECM determines when and how far to open the intake valves.
This system eliminates the need for throttle housing and flap.
Faults
If the MIL (malfunction indicator light, Service Engine Soon light) is illuminated, use a BMW-compatible scan tool (ISTA, Autologic, etc.) to read fault codes stored in ECM memory. The following codes point toward Valvetronic problems:
2DCE "Not possible to adjust Valvetronic system and the environment related condition"
58A2 "Actual value of VVT eccentric angle is above 174 degrees"
2DCF "No movement detected in Valvetronic system"
Here are the steps recommended by the BMW Service Bulletin No. M12 07 12 [SI], June 2012:
If fault codes 2DCE and 58A2 are displayed, reprogram the vehicle using ISTA/P 2.30 or higher (integration level 1203500 or higher). Disregard fault code 2DCF at this time, and do not perform any further repairs related to this fault before programming.
If fault code 58A2 is not displayed, the procedure is still the same.
If the scan tool displays low battery voltage, connect the vehicle power supply (electronic charger). Note the displayed battery voltage reading in the repair order comments section.
Start the vehicle and allow the engine to idle for 1 minute. Then switch the engine off.
Using the scan tool, download fault codes.
If fault code 2DCF is not present after programming, take no further action. If code 2DCF is stored after the programming is complete, then the eccentric shaft (Valvetronic) actuator motor is at one of the end stop positions. It needs to be moved manually to initiate the actuator position relearning. Proceed to step 5.
Switch off the ignition.
Using a 4 mm Allen key, rotate the eccentric shaft actuator motor three turns. The actuator motor is installed at the top of the valve cover. Do not remove or replace the actuator motor.
After rotating the actuator shaft, reassemble the vehicle, switch on the ignition and start the engine. The Valvetronic position learning procedure starts automatically.
Turn off the engine and clear the fault memory.
Other common faults relate to an electric motor failure. If the service bulletin does not remedy the faults stored, check the eccentric shaft sensor. If full of oil, replace the sensor. If not, check operation using a MINI scan tool. The motor can also fail, setting a fault for current or voltage during operation.
Beginning with the production of 2007 MINI R56, several of the models have been equipped with Valvetronic intake system.
Figure 1
Beginning with the production of 2007 MINI R56, several of the models have been equipped with Valvetronic intake system. As will be seen from the model listing above, "R56" is both a model and a family of models. Different MINI body configurations were given different R codes. Initially only the normally-aspirated model with N12 engine was equipped with Valvetronic. Beginning with 2011 models, both the N16 (normally-aspirated) and N18 (turbocharged) engine came with Valvetronic. The engine shown is an N12 normally-aspirated engine. The Valvetronic motor (red arrow) is located at the left rear of the cylinder head, below the intake manifold.
